Midsommer takes its inspiration from the beautiful knitting patterns of Estonia, and particularly an ancient ritual enacted at midsummer, when young lovers search the forests for a mythical fern that brings fertility, luck, wealth, and even the ability to understand animals’ speech. This fern flowers only on the summer solstice.. so for you lovers young and old, follow the winding path of the fern down the center panel to the flowers at the edge, and imagine that you are one of the fortunate few!

This shawlette is worked from the top down, beginning at center back, and features my favorite center panel construction with extra shoulder increases that create a wing-like shape. Beads (in two colors) are placed using the crochet hook add-as-you-go method. Lace patterns are written and charted.

Bead requirements (2 colors): Bead A, 336 size 6/0 beads; Bead B, 187 size 6/0 beads.

Photos on this page are courtesy of Vivian Aubrey.

The 11/2011 version contains an error in the written instructions for Center Panel A, Row 11. That row should read: Row 11: K1, yo, k6, yo, k1-B, yo, k2, sk2p, yo, k1.