The Aster Shawl is named for the Carolina Aster flower that is often found throughout the lowcountry, particularly Charleston. The purple blooms arrive late in the season and often grow and lean vertically. The lace pattern used in the Aster Shawl perfectly mimics the growing pattern.

The Aster Shawl is an asymmetrical shawl that is worked flat from the upper right point to the opposite side. The lace pattern is worked from either the chart or the written instructions. Once the shawl has been knit to the specified dimensions, all stitches are bound off, and the edges are wet-blocked with blocking wires to help the stitch pattern open up, the yarn to bloom, and create straight and crisp edges.

The samples are knit with Purl Soho Linen Quill, a 50% Fine Highland Wool, 35% Alpaca, 15% Linen fingering-weight yarn that is perfect for three-season wear.

Please share your progress on Instagram by tagging me @kirstenjoel_designs and using the hashtags #astershawlkjd. I love to see all of your works in progress and finished projects!

Molsa offers a lot of opportunities for customization - hip or thigh length, optional afterthought pockets, vertical or horizontal button band - so you’re guaranteed to knit a version that fits perfectly into your wardrobe.

The cardigan is worked flat, back & forth in rows from the hem to the shoulders with set-in sleeve shaping for the armholes. Comfortable sleeves allow for easy winter layering. Once the cardigan pieces are completed and blocked, stitches are picked up around the front opening to work either a horizontal or attached vertical buttonband.

The cream hip-length version as shown is knit with Knit Picks Simply Wool Aran and the attached vertical buttonband. The grey thigh-length version as shown is knit with Quince & Co Osprey with afterthought pockets and the horizontal button band.

Wear Molsa at home snuggled in front of the fire or wear it on a quick trip to the grocery store to pick up some hot cocoa mix for a fun afternoon treat with the kiddos. However you wear it, the Molsa Cardigan will be a delightful addition to your everyday handmade wardrobe.

Please share your progress on Instagram by tagging me @kirstenjoel_designs and using the hashtag #molsacardigankjd. I love to see all of your works in progress and finished projects!

75” wingspan by 36.5” deep

Note: this may vary depending on how aggressively you block your cowl, gauge, and blocking method.