Sirena is a lacy little thing that gets its name not from the effect it can have on sailors (or does it?), but from the Milanese Lace stitch that evokes geometric wave patterns. Short and sweet, it’s easy to knit up and even easier to wear, making it perfect for those breezy days at the beach or any time you need just a little protection from the elements.

Using the Provisional Cast-On method, Sirena begins from one side and is worked towards the other, with the ends grafted together using the kitchener stitch for a seamless look. Because of this, the final length of the piece is determined by the cast-on stitches, while the final circumference is determined by the rows worked.

There are two different versions given, one using worsted weight yarn (turquoise sample) and one using lace weight yarn (orange sample). Construction essentially remains the same, the only differences being the number of cast-on stitches and number of rows, showing how easily the pattern can be adapted!

Lace pattern is written out as well as charted.

YARN
A yarn made from natural fibers is recommended to best block the lace and allow the stitches to relax.

The turquoise sample shown is knit with Wool & The Gang’s Shiny Happy Cotton, a 100% pima cotton yarn in the now discontinued “Magic Mint” colorway. It has a nice heavy drape. If you don’t make any modifications, one ball will yield one piece, but be prepared to frog your swatch.

(Note: I purchased the yarn last year (2013), and at the time, the label listed the yardage at 135 yds; the weight however, has not changed. It was and currently is listed at 100 gr.)

The orange sample is knit with Knitpicks’ Shadow Lace in the also discontinued “Queen Anne Tonal”, a 100% merino wool yarn. One skein of yarn will be more than enough for one piece, even with modifications! Be aware however, since wool has more elasticity than cotton, it maintains its shape much better; if you prefer to wear Sirena as a snood more/most of the time, I recommend knitting a few more pattern repeats to widen the circumference so that it hangs off of, rather than hugs, your head.

GAUGE
For this particular pattern, if you don’t get the exact gauge, that’s okay! But please don’t forgo knitting up a swatch! The thing to remember is to use needles that are a few sizes bigger than the yarn label recommends to create a nice, open fabric. Feel free to experiment with different yarn weights!

FINISHED DIMENSIONS
12” in length x 25” in circumference
(easily adapted)

SKILLS USED
Provisional Cast-On
Kitchener stitch
knit stitch
purl stitch
yo
k2tog
p2tog

This pattern is intended for personal non-commercial use only. No portion of this pattern may be reproduced without express permission. No items made from this pattern made be sold. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me!

© Emmyelle 2014.