I have a generous cousin who passes clothing on to me when it no longer works with her wardrobe.  This year she gave me a superb black leather jacket, a funky grey/silver “fur” jacket, and the most divine animal print Carla Zampatti full-length jacket.  I don’t know how I’d have made it through the Melbourne winter without them!  Unfortunately it has taken me far too long to thank her properly, but I have finally completed a shawl which will be going in the mail to her today.

My version is possibly a little small to be called a shawl; it’s more a shawlette, which can be worn like a scarf. The pattern is Flying Diamonds Shawl (Ravelry link) by Vicki Mikulak.  I used a skein of Fibranatura Yummy superwash sportweight merino, crocheted with a 4.5mm hook.

It’s a lovely 3 row repeat stitch pattern. I stopped when I was running short of yarn and modified the edging to finish with about 10cm of yarn remaining. I really enjoyed crocheting this shawl.

As is often the case, I was inspired to give this pattern a go by the gorgeous examples made by Michelle.  I really do hope that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, because I usually love everything that Michelle crochets.  She has such a knack for choosing beautiful patterns and divine yarns.  Many of the items in my Ravelry queue are directly inspired by her.  Thanks Michelle!  As is happens, the shawl I’ve crocheted will end up in Michelle’s home city – maybe she’ll spot it on my cousin Julie one day!