Rilsdale

My Great-Grandmother Zoe celebrated her wedding at her parents’ homestead, “Rilsdale,” in Pahiatua, New Zealand, in the vibrant spring of 1914. Dressed in an exquisite gown of ivory crepe de chine, adorned with delicate lace, her stunning train was beautifully trimmed with orange blossoms and pearls. Zoe was renowned as a pioneering woman, famously the first to ride astride in the Wairarapa, and her wedding ceremony was nothing short of a splendid affair, filled with joy and the spirit of celebration.

Drawing inspiration from this remarkable matriarch, the Rilsdale shawl embodies her strength and creativity.

This impressive crescent shawl is a delightful project that incorporates terrifically fun knitting techniques and striking design details, making it a must-have for any enthusiastic knitter. Rilsdale is specifically crafted to showcase stunning hand-dyed and gradient yarns, making it the perfect pattern for those looking to experiment with short rows and intricate lacework.

What’s more, the Rilsdale pattern includes helpful links to step-by-step photo tutorials, ensuring that both novice and experienced knitters can confidently tackle this beautiful project. The pattern has been meticulously test-knit and professionally tech-edited for clarity and accuracy, providing you with a seamless knitting experience.

Sizing: Width: approximately 167cm (66”) when blocked. Depth at the widest part: approximately 43cm (17”) when blocked, making Rilsdale a generously sized shawl that drapes beautifully.

YARN: For this project, we recommend using Beleura 4ply By Briony, a luxurious fingering-weight yarn made from 50% Silk and 50% Merino. This blend not only adds a soft and sumptuous texture but also enhances the vibrant colors of your finished shawl.

Embrace the spirit of Zoe with the Rilsdale shawl—a captivating project that combines classic elegance with modern knitting techniques, perfect for any knitting enthusiast seeking to create something truly special.