Lanhydrock

Lanhydrock Lace Shawl by Colleen Abbot

Project Overview

Lanhydrock is an advanced knitting pattern for a sophisticated lace shawl inspired by the architectural details of Lanhydrock House, a restored Tudor Manor in Cornwall. The design draws inspiration from the intricate church windows found on the historic estate's grounds, translating these elegant geometric forms into a delicate lace motif. This downloadable PDF pattern is ideal for experienced knitters seeking a project that combines technical skill with historical and aesthetic inspiration.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a triangular shawl measuring 54 inches wide by 22 inches deep, providing generous coverage while maintaining the lightweight, airy quality characteristic of lace-weight knitting. The shawl features a refined drape that showcases the delicate lace patterning throughout the piece. The optional addition of beads in the bind-off edge adds visual interest and provides additional weight to enhance the garment's graceful fall.

Construction Techniques

The Lanhydrock shawl is worked from the top down, beginning with a garter stitch tab that provides a stable foundation for the lace pattern. This top-down construction method allows knitters to try on the shawl as it develops and easily adjust the final size by working additional pattern repeats before binding off. The garter stitch tab creates a neat, finished edge at the top of the shawl where it will sit against the shoulders or neckline.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern features a lace motif worked over an 8-stitch repeat that measures 1.5 inches wide after blocking. The lace pattern creates the window-inspired geometric designs that reference the formal architecture of Lanhydrock House. Stockinette stitch forms the foundation fabric between lace repeats, allowing the openwork pattern to stand out distinctly. The combination of stockinette and lace creates visual contrast while maintaining the overall delicate aesthetic. The bind-off can be worked as a standard edge or embellished with beads for added dimension and weight.

Yarn and Materials

• Yarn Weight: Lace weight yarn requiring 460 yards (420 meters) total
• Yarn Fiber: Pattern is pictured in Swan's Island Natural Colors Merino Silk, a blend that provides both elasticity and sheen
• Needles: One US size 4 (3.5mm) circular needle, 32 inches long
• Gauge: 22 stitches and 34 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking using US size 4 (3.5mm) needles

Skill Level and Blocking

This pattern is designed for advanced knitters who are comfortable working lace patterns with yarn overs, decreases, and reading chart instructions. The delicate nature of lace-weight yarn and the precision required for even stitch definition make this an excellent project for experienced crafters. Blocking is essential for this project, as it sets the gauge, opens up the lace pattern for maximum visual impact, and helps establish the final dimensions and drape of the finished shawl.