We have been looking recently at national emblems and symbols and flags seemed a natural extension of our original work.

The Saltire is the national flag of Scotland and presented more of a design challenge than the straightforward horizontal or vertical panels of colour that a number of other flags displayed.

It is also known as Saint Andrew’s Cross. It has a very long history. Until 2003 it was defined as a white cross on a blue background and many different shades of blue could be found. It was then decided that the ‘official’ colour should be Pantone 300, although this is only a recommendation and the flag is still often seen in much darker shades.

When knitted using DK yarn and 3.25mm needles the piece is approximately 32 inches wide and 20 inches high. It is designed to be viewed from the side as a wall hanging or as the centre piece of a bed cover. It can be made in any yarn though this might change the overall size.

Illusion knits should fully disappear when viewed from directly in front but because the cross is so well defined in straight lines the lighting needs to be perfect for this to happen. The final photograph here shows this frontal view.

Other illusion flags:

• Royal Standard of Scotland
• Red Dragon Standard (Wales)

September 2013 Update
The pattern now includes an extra chart intended for tablet users but others may find it helpful. You can view 20 ridges at a time and always be able to see the numbers across the bottom of the chart. Never lose your place again!