The Boxing Day Shawl was designed for The Whole Nine Yarns’ Christmas in July 2012.

This is a semi-circular shawlette (as written), beginning at the top center and fanning outward, increasing 6 times every 4 rows. You will alternate yarns every two rows, work a section of mesh lace near the end, and then return to stockinette. The shawl is finished by picking up stitches around the entire shawl and knitting a slight ruffle using only the Silken Straw. Want a larger shawl? Knit the stockinette section until desired length. Plan on using 2x the yarn.

Yarn substitutions: I liked using the Silken Straw for the airiness and drape it brings to the shawl. Unlike other silks, it is not heavy. It must, however, be steam blocked to release its softness, otherwise it does feel like straw. After a hot steaming with the iron, it’s soft and flowy. The superfine merino wool (Finito) brought in a lot of softness. I’d recommend using a sock weight wool to replace the Finito (if you must), but try to use a silk or silk blend in place of the Silken Straw. The drape really is lovely!

Colors- I used to different shades of green, so you can keep it tone on tone like that, or have some fun playing with colors and try some contrast.