Highly recommend the craftsy class by Laura Nelkin on Mastering Lace Shawls. This was my first attempt at knitting a lace shawl and I am thrilled at what I have learned. Challenging and rewarding. Couldn’t wait to complete the course. Used the same yarn as Laura did for her fingering-weight Skywalker as I wanted the project to go as smoothly as possible. Since I’m a newbie, it took me a bit more than one skein. Pattern states about 400 yds and the yarn was 420 yds. On about the 9th repeat of the edging, I ran out of yarn. Luckily, I had asked a previous “graduate” of Laura’s class, who used the same yarn, and she recommended purchasing a 2nd skein. Glad I did. (Thanks Suzysticks.) Also, I was able to use Laura’s “Russian Join”, which is an invaluable tool I’m glad I learned.

Also recommend first viewing each class before attempting to jump in (unless you are an experienced lace knitter). I found that I had to FROG a couple of times due to not using enough markers on the star pattern. I put in my own number or markers and it went like a dream. Then, I recommend putting in more lifelines than Laura does. (I think she puts in 2.) I recommend a lifeline after each section and maybe even more. They are a definite lifesaver as this is a “black box” project requiring concentration and uninterrupted time.

In addition to teaching you the knitting stitches you will need to know with most lace knitted projects, you will learn many of Laura’s useful tips, how to read knitted charts, and how to read your stitches. It will definitely kick your skill level up several knotches. Laura’s sweet spirit, professionalism, knowledge and absolute love for what she is teaching shines through in each segment of this class. (I was really impressed that she doesn’t use “ummm” between her sentences.) She is encouraging and prompt in responding to your questions, so you’re never left hanging out there in a standstill. A truly empowering and enjoyable experience. Great job, Laura! Can’t wait to start her knitting with beads course but I’ll be doing the 2nd shawl (Clarus) next.

Love the colorway of the String Theory hand-dyed yarn. The one I wanted was out of stock, so I requested to be notified when it would become available. I was emailed the same day that they would soon be dying another lot. You can tell they put a lot of love in their hand-dyed yarn. It arrived fast and gently wrapped in tissue…….like a little present. :) It is beautiful. It knitted well, blocked beautifully and is very soft. Not much color bleeding residue when wet and it dried really fast. I love the color - the pictures don’t quite capture its richness and depth. The colorway doesn’t fight with the different stitch patterns and both work together for a stunning result. Thanks String Theory.