Blattkranz Shawl – Leaf Wreath is a deep crescent-shape shawl based on the Herbert Niebling pattern of the same name, Leaf Wreath in English. Blattkranz is worked from the top down with increases throughout the body. The original pattern, in half, is a half circle. I incorporated patterns to the two edges for a softer deep crescent shape. I hope to continue modifying these amazing designs – Blattkranz is the third one after Quadratische Decke (QD) and Pfingstrose (Peony) – into a more wearable shawl shape with well illustrated charts and clear instructions so more knitters will discover and enjoy the magic of Niebling.
Blattkranz uses approximately two skeins (874y / 800m) of fingering-weight yarns. It may also be knitted in lace-weight yarn for a more open look, or sport-weight yarn for a denser fabric and larger shawl. Test knit usage ranged from 692y to 962y / 632m to 880m. See this post for more information on test knit details. Blattkranz may be knitted with or without beads. The number of beads used, up to about 900, for applicable sections is listed below.
Difficulty – Advanced Beginner to Intermediate. It’s a fairly simple pattern as far as a Niebling goes. There is no pattern on the WS rows except for the ptbl on the RS ktbl and two k/p on the RS double YOs. Attention is still needed to follow simple sequences within each chart.
Pattern – Charts only. No step-by-step written instruction.
Shape – A large, deep crescent
Yarn – Lace, heavy lace, as well as fingering weight are recommended. You may even knit it in sport or dk weight if you wish for a larger, cozier shawl.
Yardage – Sample shawl (second picture) used 822 y / 752 m using DDD PFlaxenSilk{fingering} on US3 / 3.25mm needles. Have more yarn on hand if you are a loose knitter and/or using larger needles.
Size – Size is only adjustable by weight and needle size. Sample shawl (second picture) is 23” x 53” (59cm x 135cm) with a stretched out top edge of 61” (155cm). If you prefer a larger and more open-lace shawl, go up a needle size or two.
Gauge – Gauge isn’t important but will affect the final size of the shawl.
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