As the daughter of a farmer, I’ve been told (by said farmer) that I should hate the blue mustard (or “crossflower”) weed. But I can’t help it — its tiny purple blooms and distinctive smell instantly remind me of childhood. Delicate lace patterning and a subtle purple hue bring this memory further to life in the Crossflower Shawl, created for PostStitch’s June 2018 subscription box. Marianated Yarns’ Practicality 75/25 gives generous yardage and a crisp hand, making it perfect for a one-skein summer shawl. The piece begins with just two stitches and progresses until almost every last bit of yarn is used, after which a strong blocking transforms it into a graceful shawl.

The expanded version (in red) uses a six-color Perfection Gradient from Marianated Yarns. Shades were alternated at transition points to create a smooth flow of color.

This pattern contains both fully charted and written instructions.

Recommended Yarn:
Marianated Yarns Practicality 75/25 — 75% superwash merino / 25% nylon — 463 yds (423 m) to 100 g. Shown in colorway Avana (single skein version).

Marianated Yarns Scrumptious HT Perfection Gradient Set
—80% superwash merino / 10% cashmere / 10% nylon — 800 yds (732 m) to 200 g. Shown in gradient colorway Unchained Melody (expanded version).

Sizing:
Single Skein: 46” (117 cm) along right edge, 54” (137 cm) along increase edge, 32” (81 cm) along top edge.

Expanded Size: 59” (150 cm) along right edge, 72” (183 cm) along increase edge, 44” (112 cm) along top edge.

Gauge:
20 sts and 30 rows to 4” (10 cm) both in lace pattern and garter st, strongly blocked.

PLEASE NOTE: Pattern is not dependent on gauge, but changes in gauge will affect finished size, look of motifs, and amount of yarn used.

Needles:
US 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle, 24” or longer.

Other Materials:
10-14 stitch markers, tapestry needle.

Many thanks to Megan of PostStitch and Marian of Marianated Yarns for their support! This pattern was professionally tech edited by Lisa Beth Houchins (Meanest Mommy Knits).