This long rectangular lace stole is worked from one short end to the other. The shawl begins with a waving open eyelet lace pattern representing the slightly curved thorns of the gorse plant. This pattern is continued along the side edges to create a frame for a central lace panel representing the slightly drooping, open flowers of the plant. The final end is worked in the open eyelet lace pattern for a symmetrical border.

You will need approximately 800 yards of a fingering-weight yarn to complete this project as written. If substituting a yarn, choose one with a nice drape, like a silk blend, and little to no halo.

Gorse is an evergreen flowering shrub, easily recognizable by its bright golden yellow flowers and thorn-tipped branches. In the Ogham tradition, this plant was associated with the sun, and was symbolic of life and vitality. The rough branches were often used in the Beltane bonfires of Celtic late spring celebrations.

This can also be ordered as a kit with pattern and yarn from The Yarn Guys/Wall of Yarn.