I wanted to create a shawl that would wrap the knitter in calmness, gentleness, and peace. The Water is Life Shawl does just that. Even the process of knitting it is meditative, with the Navajo ply technique adding a satisfying rhythm and subtle complexity to an otherwise simple design.

From a Navajo perspective, water is more than a necessity in the harsh desert landscape—it is a sacred, living entity. If you have ever visited the Southwest, you know how precious water can be. Yet during the summer monsoon season, the land transforms. Dry washes begin to flow, stock tanks fill for cattle, and rock formations become temporary waterfalls.

Water is woven deeply into Navajo identity and culture. Many Navajo clans carry the word Tó (water) in their names, such as Tó Dích’íi’nii (Bitter Water Clan), reflecting the enduring connection between the Navajo people and this life-giving element.

US size 2 with 24” needles, growing as needed in length
Stitch markers
Seed Beads, size 6/0 Metallic Silver ( I found mine at Michael’s)
Width: 75.4” (192 cm)
Height: 12.25” (31 cm)
Reliquary- 80% Superfine Merino/ 20% Silk (875 yards / 100g) -Indigo Blue Sky MC
Frond- 64% Kid Mohair/ 36% Silk (184 yards / 20g) - Rivulet CC