Focus on Fiber Arts: The ‘just right’ shawlette

By Ginger Balch

It’s that rare project that I can find myself making more than a couple of times. That’s not to say that there are times that I have to reproduce an item many times for customers, but most times I’m not fond of churning out the same product over and over again.

That being said, I do enjoy taking an idea and creating a “series”. It can be done in different color ways or slightly different techniques, resulting in a totally different product. I’m also one who rarely follows a pattern as written. In the shop are all different knitted samples, mostly from patterns.

The projects are available, but they most always have the caveat of, “but this is what I did.” I’m not happy if I don’t make my own adjustments.

I equate this shawlette with potato chips, because I can’t make just one. It has an easy-to-remember lace bottom, and a simple short row finish. It’s easy enough to be entertaining without being boring.

No sooner do I finish one, that I’m thinking how wonderful it would look in another color way or even another yarn. It lends itself to a multitude of yarns and fibers. One of my favorites is a multi colored silk and wool blend — although I was totally bowled over when my customer Rose stopped in wearing her beautiful version in a sparkling aqua yarn. It was so gorgeous that I had her make me up two other color ways.

It’s the shawl that just keeps enchanting all who see it; they either want to make it, or own it. You decide which one you are.

Virginia (Ginger) Balch knits, weaves and spins in all things “fibery” at her shop In Sheep’s Clothing at 10 Water St. Torrington www.in-sheeps-clothing.com or phone 860-482-3979.