Please note: new version of the pattern has been uploaded to replace the one with mistakes in the written directions starting with line 65. My thanks to those who pointed this out, including Kim Van Buskirk (savvystitcher).

Ideal for a beginning knitter who is ready to spread her wings - literally! - this top-down triangle shawl incorporates easy shoulder shaping to create wings that hang down straight in front while sitting smoothly around the neck. Then it morphs into one of the simplest possible lace stitches, Feather & Fan. If two contrasting skeins are used, the undulations of F&F are particularly lovely and fun to knit. But it will also work all in one color, or as a stashbuster - just gather all your leftovers of one weight and knit them in whatever order you like!

You can use any weight of yarn and any size needles you like. The models shown were knit in fingering / 4 ply (Kauni Effektgarn, Schoppel Cat Print) and sport weight / 5 ply (yarn spun from our sheep). I used several different sizes of needle depending on the effect I wanted - larger for an airier shawl, smaller for a closer knit.

There are written row-by-row instructions for the garter section of the shawl, and both written and charted instructions for the Feather & Fan portion. Lots of tips are included to help less-experienced knitters. I’m happy to answer any questions that come up, as well - they will help me refine the pattern.

This design is posted in thanks for all the knitters who have inspired me, starting with Elizabeth Zimmerman and many fiber guild members I’ve known, and not ending with Ravelry - what an amazing community! I’m so glad I joined :)