From the moment your feet hit the surf, the first swim of the day feels like freedom. Although swimming may be too strong a word. Movement is effortless, and this is more about relaxation, about surrendering yourself to the joys of the sea. Finally, you can let go and just float, buoyant and supported by the salt water. Bobbing up and down among the waves, you are almost weightless. Somehow, a dip in the ocean can be both exhilarating and deeply calming. Any stress or fretting that managed to follow you here dissolves and drifts away. When you’ve had enough, there’s a happy striving back to the shore as you are lifted and set back on your feet by the movement of the water, heading for the crisp welcome of a sun-warmed towel. A little sun, a little rest, a cool drink, and then you’ll be ready to venture out into the swing of the sea once more.

Our second shawl of the season is called Floating, after the simple pleasure of an ocean swim. It is a generous half pi/semi-circle shape with a beautiful drape around the shoulders. The base of the shawl is mostly garter, the most relaxing stitch I know: perfect holiday knitting. There is also a gorgeous panel of deceptively simple lace, finished with the delicate ripple of a picot bind-off. The Floating shawl is a joyful and rewarding knit and a lovely addition to any outfit.

SIZE
One Size

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
• Approximately 152cm (60”) diameter across top edge
• 66cm (26”) neck to bottom edge

YARN
Sweet Fiber Sweet Merino Lite 100% superwash merino; 434m / 475yds per 115g skein, 2 x 115g skeins,
Colour: Sea Glass

Sample used 215g 812m / 888yds in a fingering weight single ply yarn

NEEDLES
4mm (US 6), 100cm (40”) long circular needles (or size to obtain gauge)

NOTIONS
Tapestry needle
Removable stitch marker

GAUGE
20 sts/32 rows = 10cm (4”) in garter stitch after blocking