This shawl design was inspired by ancient Irish castles and their stunning natural setting, so full of amazing greens and grays. The yarn colors I used for this project are very special to me – they are the result of my collaboration with Ana of Yarn Carnival. I’ve sent Ana few photos of beautiful moss covered rocks for inspiration and she translated them into these richly layered greens and grays. Stunning…

I designed this shawl to make the most of the two colors; the textured slip stitch colorwork lets the greens and grays interact with each other in a way that echoes the moss covered castle walls and limestone rocks. The geometric lace adds linear quality reminiscent of the striking castle architecture and the sparkle of the beads serves as reminder of the shimmering sea coast (approx 270 6/0 4.00 mm seed beads, optional).

Kinbane is worked in one piece from the top down starting with a simple set of garter stitch short rows, which shape the shawl into a versatile crescent. The deep border is worked next in a combination of textured stitches, slip stitch colorwork, and easy lace. The lace is beaded throughout for a bit of unexpected sparkle; however, the beads are optional and the shawl can be worked without them. This, along with the easy stitch patterns, makes Kinbane a great intro-to-lace and colorwork project and a fun, quick knit for the more advanced knitter.

Color A: Stones – 385 yards
Color B: Moss – 415 yards