Behind the Design: Luster Lace Wrap

Hello, Subscriber First Name,

A brand-new spring wrap is on its way, featuring a striking blend of lace stitch patterns, and I wanted to share a little behind-the-scenes look at how it came to be.

For me, every new lace project starts with choosing and refining the stitch patterns so they work together both visually and mathematically. With my new Luster Lace Wrap, this took some trial and error, but it was a joyful process, and I hope that comes through in the final design.

Building on my love of combining floral and geometric elements, my goal was to create something bold yet harmonious. Because this shawl was designed specifically for LoftyFiber Euroflax linen, I wanted to highlight the yarn’s crisp texture, subtle sheen, and beautiful stitch definition. I also envisioned a piece versatile enough to wear to a wedding or wrap around your neck on a quiet Sunday morning.

The first step, of course, was swatching. Here are a few early stitch pattern contenders. Can you guess which ones made it into the final design?

Next, I began combining stitches into a larger swatch. This helps me see how they work together visually, and just as importantly, how they align mathematically so I can make the adjustments needed for everything to flow seamlessly.

From there, the structure began to take shape: alternating bands of large floral motifs, a starburst-style lattice, and a narrow bow-tie stripe.

Once I had a working pattern, I started on the sample. Most of the time this goes smoothly, but every now and then, a design issue doesn’t reveal itself until you’re well into the project.

In this case, I was about three feet in when I realized the edges weren’t as even as I wanted. After wrestling with it for a while, I made the call to rip back nearly ten hours of work — and I’m so glad I did. That decision led to a built-in edge that feels intentional and polished, and it makes finishing easy with just a single crochet border.

I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. It’s the kind of timeless piece that feels beautiful to wear. The linen yarn will only soften and develop more fluidity over time, making it something I know I’ll reach for again and again.

Tester Call

If you enjoy lace, thoughtful construction, and being part of the design process, I’d love to have you join the test.

Here’s the timeline:

• Signups close: April 2

• Testers notified: April 4

• Project deadline: May 9

• Pattern release: May 15

LoftyFiber, distributor of the Euroflax linen used in this design, is generously offering a 20% discount on Euroflax 14/4 to any testers who want to use it for their shawls!

I’ve opened the tester call early for newsletter readers, so you can apply now before I share it more widely tomorrow. To learn more about the design, testing requirements, and how to apply, visit the Luster Lace Wrap thread in my Ravelry group: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/designs-by-jennifer-olivarez/topics/4400877

Thanks so much for being here and following along. I can’t wait to share this pattern with you in May.

Have a wonderful weekend, and I hope to see you in the Ravelry group!

Know someone who would enjoy this mailing? Forward it to them!
They can subscribe right here.