Red Shoe Beach
October 25, 2012
There are times when wandering through a yarn shop isn't as inspiring as I'd like. I have a large (enough) stash and, often, much of what I see is similar to what is already housed in the (ever burgeoning) stash. It just doesn't feel right to buy more of the same.
Last spring, when I spotted Anzula's lace weight silk/linen blend (Breeze), it was an unexpected delight. Here was something new and unique and it was stimulating to see. I was worried the linen would be hard, tough on my hands, but this yarn was soft, with the cool texture of linen and the sheen of silk. I was enchanted and, of course, I bought red…a pretty not quite pink, not quite coral, Red Shoe.
Before long I'd decided on a suitable pattern for my unique yarn, Susan's Beach Glass. It was time to tackle my first ever bottom up shawl. 388 stitches were successful cast on and the feather and fan section launched. Over the months it took to complete, there were times when I became distracted with other projects, (Color Affection for one), but I never abandon my Red Shoe on the Beach.
With each of the decreasing rows, through wavy lace and into the eyelets, this shawl enchanted and entertained. A designer must have a vision of how the patterns will fit together, must have an understanding of when, and where, each decrease should be, and before ever casting on, must know, in the end, that the pattern will come together when the last stitches are woven together. I am in awe of this ability.
The linen/silk blend yarn has a nice hand, a beautiful drape, and an airy lightness, which reminds me of the a summer's day. I am also assured the yarn was the right choice for this elegant shawl. Come spring, I'll be ready to let the beautiful pink Beach Glass sit on my shoulders and keep the cool breezes away.
It's gorgeous. The color really is unique and I'm so happy that you finished it!
Posted by: Carole | October 25, 2012 at 04:42 AM
Absolute perfection! XOXO
Posted by: Kym | October 25, 2012 at 05:44 AM
Beautiful Margene! I've had this shawl in my queue forever. After my rash of baby hats and a Honey Badger Stuffie, I'll have to get one of my own on the needles.
Posted by: Manise | October 25, 2012 at 05:50 AM
That is so pretty. And, now you're already for spring!
Posted by: CindyCindy | October 25, 2012 at 05:53 AM
What a gorgeous color for this pattern! Enjoy!
Posted by: Debshepknits | October 25, 2012 at 05:55 AM
Gorgeous - and it'll be a beautiful, cheery color when the drab days arrive!
Posted by: Anne | October 25, 2012 at 06:03 AM
Oh MY....I love this!! You and I share that same love for red....so beautiful!
Posted by: Kim | October 25, 2012 at 06:11 AM
That's exquisite, Margene!
Posted by: DebbieB | October 25, 2012 at 06:24 AM
That is so lovely! The color will make you think of spring during the darkest days of winter!
Posted by: Debbie | October 25, 2012 at 06:38 AM
It is beautiful. I love the pattern and the color.
Posted by: Ann in the UP | October 25, 2012 at 07:30 AM
Lovely!
Posted by: Cheryl S. | October 25, 2012 at 08:06 AM
Love it...wish I had more time to knit. I miss it but life will quiet down at some point in my life and I know I will miss being busy with kids!
I live my lace knitting through you at the moment!
Posted by: Sarah | October 25, 2012 at 08:57 AM
Lovely, great knitting job as usual :)
Posted by: Rachel | October 25, 2012 at 09:13 AM
Great color--I wish I could come and pet the yarn. I want to make a small shawl for a friend who is always too hot and wouldn't appreciate wool!
Posted by: Jo | October 25, 2012 at 09:32 AM
Beautiful Margene!
Posted by: thea | October 25, 2012 at 02:40 PM
So lovely. Well done.
Posted by: Cookie | October 25, 2012 at 03:46 PM
Oh, that's beautiful Margene! I love that wavy feather & fan.
Posted by: Vicki | October 26, 2012 at 12:47 PM
That is so lovely, Margene!
Posted by: Heather | October 26, 2012 at 01:37 PM
Looking good Margene!
Posted by: Patty | October 26, 2012 at 08:17 PM
Wow! It's absolutely stunning!
Posted by: Chris | October 28, 2012 at 06:28 PM
came out great. what a fun colorway.
Posted by: susan | October 28, 2012 at 07:58 PM