Aligning Angles

Welcome to a unique exploration of angles in beadwork and lace knitting, where my passion for mathematics beautifully intertwines with my love for creating stunning shawls. Much like knitting intricate lace patterns, understanding the world of mathematics can feel daunting at first. However, just as a complex shawl can be deconstructed into simpler components of knits and purls, the beauty of math reveals itself when approached one step at a time—a journey that unveils a fascinating and accessible world.

Our featured pattern, Aligning Angles, boasts a captivating design that incorporates numerous straight angles within the motifs. The shawl is cleverly crafted with additional increases along the borders, which lend it a gracefully artistic heart-shaped silhouette. To enhance its visual appeal, approximately 900 beads are required to adorn this exquisite piece. I enjoy adding these beads using a tiny crochet hook, a method that allows for precision and creativity in your knitting. The pattern is thoughtfully charted to ensure clarity, and all wrong side rows consist solely of purls for a seamless experience.

The purple shawl utilizes 2 skeins of BC Garn Silkbloom Extra Fino, a luxurious blend consisting of 55% Merino and 45% Silk, offering a delightful softness and sheen (328 yards/300 meters per 50 grams). For this project, I used 3.5 mm (US 4) needles, which allow for a comfortable knitting experience. Once blocked, the finished size measures a generous 127 x 64 x 122 cm (50 x 25 x 48 inches). The gauge for this shawl is 20 stitches per 10 cm in stockinette stitch, ensuring both consistency and quality in your work.

The pink shawl presents a beautiful alternative, crafted from just 1 skein of SweetGeorgia Yarns SeaSilk Lace, composed of 60% plant fiber and 40% silk (700 yards/640 meters per 115 grams). Using 3.75 mm (US 5) needles, this shawl achieves a delicate drape. When blocked, it reaches a size of 132 x 69 x 130 cm (52 x 27 x 51 inches). The gauge is slightly different, at 19 stitches per 10 cm in stockinette, making it perfect for knitters who appreciate flexibility in their projects.

These shawls are not just beautiful accessories but are also expressions of mathematical elegance woven into every stitch. With the Aligning Angles pattern, you will enjoy an enchanting crafting experience that combines artistry, precision, and a touch of math. Perfect for advanced beginners and experienced knitters alike, this pattern is sure to become a cherished addition to your knitting repertoire. Ready to dive into this intricate world of lace, beads, and geometry? Start your knitting journey today!