Svala means swallow in Old Norse, and in today’s Icelandic means quench.

This choker is part of a collection called Shieldmaiden Knits, featuring designs in Malabrigo Yarn, inspired by the epic Viking style.

Vikings were poets and artists. Their woodwork, carvings, bracelets and intricate needle cases and combs all suggest a great passion for design. Their words and sagas suggest a love of dramatic gestures.

The pieces in this collection take the gorgeous colors and textures of Malabrigo yarns, and use simple shapes and easy lace to bring about dramatic results. These are not historically accurate designs, but instead are modern pieces inspired by my research into Viking Age life.

Construction & Materials

The choker is worked flat and tied in back. Use one or more lengths of fine leather laces or other material, as desired, for tying.