Chimney Swifts

 I love how one craft can inspire others, and in designing this shawl, I wanted to interpret a classic quilting pattern and technique into knitting.  Although it involves a lot of seaming, I found it to be meditative and satisfying, and it allows the knitter to use endless color combinations without tedious stranding or worrying about tension and floats.  It was the ideal travel project because the small quilt blocks could go anywhere with me!  When finished, it brought to mind the swifts that make their home in our chimney each spring; I love to watch them fly in formation at dusk, and always marvel at how each small bird is part of the whole, creating patterns in nature as they soar in the air all together.

Pattern: Chimney Swifts Shawl, published in By Hand Serial’s Special Release No. 1: In the Garden

Size: 70” wingspan x 35” deep

Yarn: Fru Valborg Cashmerino Sock and Merino Singles in Natural White, Antique, Tipsytessie, Pinky Swear, and Barrel

Needles: US 4s