Friday, July 31, 2009

29. Smyrna Lace

"Smyrna Lace" is a classic: diamonds framed by two rows of eyelets. One stitch is added every other row in the first half of the pattern, and then the added stitches are worked off in the same way in the second half, forming a gently scalloped lower edge. Unlike most of the patterns we have seen, only one stitch is worked into each double yarn over on the subsequent row.



You can download the full-size chart, verbal instructions and notes here.

Glancing at the chart one might expect all-pattern knitted lace (aka knitted lace) as discussed in the 12. Tunician Lace post, because both right-side and wrong-side rows employ yarn overs to form the design. However, Smyrna Lace falls into the alternating-pattern knitted lace category (aka lace knitting). A closer examination of the chart reveals that the eyelets above the diamond motifs are worked on wrong-side rows and the eyelets below the diamonds are worked on the right side. In the first half of a given row the yarn overs (lower eyelets or upper eyelets) of the previous row are knitted across plain, and in the second half of the row new yarn overs create the other part of the pattern. Thus instead of separate pattern rows and plain-knit rows, each row serves both functions.

Despite having been knit with the same yarn and needles as all the other samples, this one strikes me as looser, stretchier, perhaps due to the double yarn overs being worked as single stitches.

Next Week: Knife Pleated Edging

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Another pretty edging. I could see adding a little embroidered flower in each square, but it is nice just the way it is. Your knitting is lovely.

@eloh said...

I love old lace. I can't knit a stitch...oh I've tried. I can sew and quilt and do as good or better than most...but my brain will not do the knitting.

I thought I should leave you a comment after all the times I come over here and look at your handiwork.

arur125 said...

Hi, your handwork is wonderful ... I´d like to comment that I knitted this pattern and it needs a small correction in row 16: you have to replace the first 2 YARN OVER with 2 STITCHES TOGETHER
nice job, hugs

Nora

nikkisa889 said...

Can I simply say what a reduction to search out someone who really is aware of what theyre talking about on the internet. You definitely know the right way to carry a difficulty to light and make it important. More individuals must learn this and understand this facet of the story. I cant believe youre not more standard because you definitely have the gift. gsn casino games

KnitWits said...

Row 16 correction: k1, k2tog, k1, yo twice, k2tog, k1, yo twice, k2tog, k12. Beautiful border! Thank you!