Knitting a shawl sideways allows you to maximize usage of your yarn … work increases until the skein is about halfway done, and then work decreases. Simple!

A classic Shetland lace edging, knows as Drops, provides knitting and visual interest, but not too much challenge. The double yarnovers make for extra openness. This pattern is suitable for knitters with a little lace experience, but is entirely approachable.

The yarn shown in the sample is sadly discontinued, but this design is entirely flexible. The original yarn was a sportweight – midpoint between sock yarn and a DK. Worked in a heavier weight yarn, the lace edging would be even more dramatic and open; in a sock yarn, you’d get a slightly more modest edging. You have full control the width of the piece – make it as wide as you wish.

About 400 yds of a fingering weight, 275 yards of a DK, or 250 yards of a worsted weight will get you a shawl of a similar size. Use needles a size or two larger than recommended for the yarn, to get nice drape. I recommend an animal fiber to allow you to stretch it out for blocking, to make it big and beautiful!