Charentaise is a pretty shawl that makes for an enjoyable uncomplicated lace project. The pattern includes full instructions for stocking stitch and textured garter-stitch variations.

This shawl is ideal for showing off variegated yarns. A floral motif lace border adds just the right touch of gentle grace and creates the shawl’s elegant shape.

The lace section of the pattern has both a chart and written directions so you can choose which to follow.

The shawl can easily be resized and a tip on how to do so is included in the pattern.

SIZE (after blocking):
Stocking stitch version: 150 x 65cm / 59 x 25.5in
Textured version: 130 x 55cm / 52 x 22in

YARN REQUIREMENTS (approx)
340m/370yds of any 4ply/fingering weight or light DK yarn.

GAUGE
Stocking stitch version
The UNBLOCKED gauge is 20 sts x 26 rows = 10cm in st-st.
The BLOCKED gauge is approximately 15 sts x 20 rows = 10cm in st-st.

Textured version
The UNBLOCKED gauge is 22 sts x 44 rows = 10cm in garter-st.
The BLOCKED gauge is approximately 17 sts x 32 rows = 10cm in garter-st.

Getting an exact gauge is not crucial but will impact yarn requirements. Since, within reason, the shawl can be blocked to a range of dimensions, you may find it easier to knit to the unblocked gauge.

NEEDLES
The sample was knit on a 4.5mm/US7 needle. You will need a 60cm/24in (or longer) circular needle.

NOTES
Pattern includes (amongst other things):

• charted lace border
• line-by-line written instructions (alternative to chart)
• separate instructions for textured/stocking stitch versions
• tip on resizing the shawl

The name of the pattern is inspired by the mix of greens in the original version of the shawl, which reminds me of the Charente region where my sister lives. It recalls summer days spent strolling through fields of melon, sunflowers and corn.