keeping warm

Rather than turning up the thermostat or putting another log on the fire, how about making lap quilts.  This one is based on the Shetland Hap Shawl and is snuggly cosy and could also make a lovely Christmas pressie.  Pop along to your local charity shop, buy some knitted jumpers, unravel and off you go!

That's beautiful Amanda!

Is it crocheted? I love the ripples and the color combinations.

Is it crocheted? I love the ripples and the color combinations.

Thank you! It is knitted and you see many examples in period dramas if you happen to be a fan.  They are knitted shawls, the centre is knitted from one point, widening to the widest diagonal, then back to the 4th point, then the edging knitted arou d the perimeter.  They were knitted on the go, with the wool in an apron pocket and the bulk of the work tucked under the arm, in that way women could walk around and use that time productively. I, and most serious knitters, always have a piece with me to work on on car journeys, waiting for appointments, or just to justify watching dvds back to back instead of doing housework....
The ripples are an old pattern, called by many names, but  I know it as old shale or feather and fan.
Have a look at some of the photos on this page - I'm not sure I would wear my handknitted shawls when gutting fish!
http://www.knitbritish.net/haps/