Beachcomber is an all-seasons shawl, inspired by the shapes and textures found along shorelines. Looking for interesting rocks, shells, and seaweed shapes is something I love to do any time of the year. I have often gone to the beach in winter clothing, including hat and gloves, to take photos of the beauty deposited at the water’s edge. A shawl is always in my bag in the summer as well, for those times I am in air conditioning or want a shield from the sun on a not-too-hot day.

Beginning with large scallops at the bottom edging, the shawl drapes gracefully with tiny clamshells between openwork borders. To finish, you have a choice: sea urchins, sea kelp, or a garter-applied edging.

The three final options have varying difficulty levels and looks. The sea urchin-applied edging (shown) involves some advanced techniques, so there is an accompanying video to allow inspired knitters to give it a try! The garter edging is a good introduction to working applied edgings. Instructions for a Sea Kelp (picot) bind off are provided for a decorative edge without an applied edging.