Rope the Moon is based on the country song by John Michael Montgomery.  If you need a good cry,  go listen to it.  It has a very special meaning  to me and holds a precious memory of my father from my childhood.  And beyond that,  it represents the emotional strength it takes to hold onto good memories of loved ones,  in spite of their dysfunction or the disappointment they may have left you with. I’ve struggled to hold onto all of the truly amazing memories I have with my dad because of what his mental illness and addiction ultimately did to our family. But in the grand scheme,  he is a part of me, and honestly,  the good memories probably outnumber the bad. I’m sure everyone can relate to this concept in one way or another.  And I hope that this theme will resonate with you as you knit this project.

Once blocked, this shawl can be adorned with tassels, which hang on a braided rope. The rope can be laced and tied in different ways, to be worn as a shawl, shrug, or bandana style scarf. These details are optional and can be left off or modified as you like.

Supplies
o 2 skeins fingering weight yarn in complimentary colors
~463 yds (100 g) each
o 1 mini skein for tassels and braid ~93 yds (20 g)
o Size US 6 (4.00 mm) circular needles, 32 inch cable or longer.
o 8 stitch markers
o Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Gauge unblocked: 12 sts × 18 rows= 2 inches in stockinette

You will use all of your first color, so make sure you have at least 460 yds of fingering weight yarn for that color. The amount used from the second skein will be slightly less, but I recommend having a full skein for it as well. The mini is used only for the braided rope and tassels.