Feather and Fan Stitch Pattern [FREE Knitted Stitch Pattern]

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Firstly, this gorgeous Feather and Fan Stitch Pattern is also known as the Old Shale Pattern.

In fact, it is probably the most popular openwork pattern around. It originated in Shetland and is often used in their famous lace shawls.

It is hard to believe that this gorgeous lace pattern is just knitted over 4 rows.

There are dozens of different variations of this pattern. However, the basic principle always stays the same.

Whereas purl bands can be spaced differently or placed on another row, the pattern row is always the same. In fact, half is decreases grouped together and the other half is increases that are also grouped together.

So, you can use the Feather and Fan Stitch Pattern for many different types of knitting projects. It has a beautiful scalloped edge. This makes it perfect for finishing sleeves, necklines or hems.

In addition, you also see this delightful lace pattern used in blankets. Furthermore, it is a great stitch pattern to use for cowls. 

This free knit stitch pattern is ideal for Level 3 - Easy Level Knitters

Techniques Needed for the Feather and Fan Stitch Pattern

Abbreviation                       Description                                     Tutorial

k                                                   knit                                                    Knit Stitch Continental Style 
                                                                                                                  Knit Stitch English Style

p                                                   purl                                                   Purl Stitch Continental Style
                                                                                                                 Purl Stitch English Style

sl                                                  slip                                                    Slipping Stitches Knitwise or Purlwise

yo                                                yarnover                                         Open Yarnover Increase

k2tog                                         knitting 2 stitches                     Basic Right-Slanting Decrease 
                                                      together

ssk                                              slip one, slip one                         Basic Left-Slanting Decrease
                                                      knit 2 together

Other Abbreviations Used

ws                                               wrong side

rs                                                 right side

rep                                              repeat

st(s)                                            stitch(es)

Instructions (Knitted Flat)

Multiple of 18 sts

Row 1 (RS): Knit

Row 2: Purl

Row 3: * (K2 tog) 3 times, (yo, k1) 6 times, (k2 tog) 3 times; rep from *

Row 4: Knit

Repeat Rows 1-4 until you have reached desired length

If you love lace patterns, check out this other gorgeous lace pattern: English Mesh Lace Pattern

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