Lace Leaf Knitting Pattern

Instructions

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1. 1Stitch multiple and cast onThe pattern uses a multiple of 10 sts + 1, plus one edge stitch each side, i.e. a multiple of 10 + 3. For the swatch, cast on 33 sts (10 x 3 + 3) with 4 mm needles. Work 4 rows of garter stitch for the lower border. If you like, place markers between the 10-st repeats (starting after the first 2 sts).
2. 2First tier of leaves (rows 1-8)Row 1 (RS): k2, *yo, k3, s2kp, k3, yo, k1; rep from * 3 times, k1. (33 sts) Row 2 and all WS rows: k1, purl to last st, k1. Rows 3, 5 and 7: as Row 1. Row 8: WS row. In each repeat the 2 yarn overs balance the double decrease, so the stitch count doesn't change.
3. 3Second tier of leaves (rows 9-16)Row 9: k1, k2tog, *k3, yo, k1, yo, k3, s2kp; rep from * to last 10 sts (2 times), k3, yo, k1, yo, k3, ssk, k1. (33 sts) Row 10: WS row. Rows 11, 13 and 15: as Row 9. Row 16: WS row. In this tier the leaves shift by half a repeat (5 sts); the k2tog and ssk at the edges complete the half leaves.
4. 4CheckpointsCount your stitches after every RS row: you should have 33. If you're short, you probably forgot a yarn over; if you have extra, you skipped a decrease. On the WS the yarn overs look like little loops; purl them like normal stitches without twisting them, so the holes stay open.
5. 5Knit the swatchRepeat rows 1-16 twice (32 rows). Then work 4 rows of garter stitch. With 40 rows in total, the piece looks a bit crumpled before blocking; that's normal for lace.
6. 6What to make with itLace leaves are lovely for summer shawls, scarves, the front panel of a top or a curtain edge. For a light scarf, cast on 53 sts (10 x 5 + 3; about 24 cm), work 6 garter rows at each end and knit to 170 cm; about 200 g of yarn is enough. Adjust the width in steps of 10 sts.
7. 7Finishing and blockingBind off knitwise and loosely, using a needle one size larger, so the edge can stretch during blocking. Weave the ends into the garter border, but trim them only after blocking. Soak the piece for 15 minutes in lukewarm water, squeeze it in a towel and pin it out to 15 x 14 cm; the holes only open up and the leaves only show clearly at this stage.