One of my favourite clothing articles is the shawl. I have a number of them: some knitted and made of homespun wool, and others are woven and made of cotton, and, yes, even of acrylic.
Most likely when you think 'shawl' you are reminded of the pioneer women with their triangular shawls. Who can forget when Laura asked for horses for Christmas in the book On The Banks of Plum Creek. On Christmas morning "...Ma helped them button up the shoes and she pinned their shawls under their chins. They ran out into the cold". (from the chapter A Merry Christmas)
And, indeed, the first shawls I made were triangular, just as Garth Williams illustrated them for the Little House books. I have several versions of this kind of shawl laying strategically around the house, just in case I get a bit chilled. A favourite one is based on a Danish fisherwoman's shawl. It is also triangular, but the points are extra long so you can tie them behind your back and keep them out of the way, leaving your hands free to do other things.
But shawls today are more than just coverings. They are also fashion statements and can be worn just as well with jeans, officewear, or formal attire.
These shawls are great to cuddle up with on a cool day, a cold winter evening, or to accent your outfit for almost any occasion. Machine washable and very user friendly! Feel free to contact me if you would like to acquire one for yourself or as a gift.
When do you wear your shawl?
