After exploring twelve changing textures in The Sampler Scarf by Nancy Lekx last week, I’m staying with Nancy’s beautiful designs and moving into the elegance of lacework with a wrap inspired by ancient mosaic art.
Although autumn may still seem comfortably far away, this is the perfect time to begin a project you’ll be delighted to have ready when cooler days arrive. The sophisticated Tiles and Tesserae Wrap by Nancy Lekx would be lovely draped over a dress for a holiday celebration, worn with a favorite coat on a crisp autumn evening, or given as an especially thoughtful handmade gift.
Its rich golden color, intricate lace, and graceful drape give this wrap the look of a luxurious accessory that could easily become one of the most admired pieces in your wardrobe.
skill level Intermediate
time A rewarding lace project to begin now and enjoy wearing throughout autumn and the holiday season
ideal for Lace knitters, elegant gift knitting, special occasions, holiday dressing, and anyone who appreciates art-inspired accessories
you will practice lace knitting, following written instructions, reading lace charts, working a herringbone-inspired stitch pattern, knitting eyelets, repeating lace sections, customizing the wrap length, blocking lace for shape and drape
finished size Approximately 18½” x 77” [47 x 195.5cm]
Tiles and Tesserae Wrap by Nancy Lekx for ANPTmag Issue 61; photo by Carla A. Canonico for ANPTmag
The main body of the wrap was designed to resemble tiles arranged in an intricate herringbone pattern. The eyelet design at each end represents tesserae, the small pieces of stone or glass used to create mosaic art. The golden yarn recalls the gold found in the most lavish ancient Roman and Byzantine mosaics.
Nancy designed the wrap using a modal and cashmere yarn blend that has a beautiful sheen and fluid drape that complements the lacework and helps the mosaic-inspired details come alive. The pattern includes both written and charted knitting instructions, along with notes that allow you to personalize the wrap’s size.
This project appeared in ANPTmag Issue 61, an issue inspired by tilework and the extraordinary variety of designs found in tiles around the world.
Tiles may begin as practical objects, but throughout history they’ve also become remarkable works of art. Their colors, repeating motifs, geometry, texture, and cultural symbolism offer endless inspiration for makers. The designers in Issue 61 drew from both historic influences and contemporary tile designs, translating them into quilting, knitting, crochet, embroidery, rug hooking, and creative sewing projects.
Knitting provides such an interesting way to interpret tilework. Lace stitches can create delicate architectural lines, while repeating patterns echo the arrangement of individual tiles within a larger design. In this wrap, the herringbone-inspired body and eyelet ends come together like the separate elements of a carefully planned mosaic.
Get the Tiles and Tesserae Wrap pattern here
https://www.aneedlepullingthread.com/product/tiles-and-tesserae-wrap/
Get ANPTmag Issue 61 print version here
https://www.aneedlepullingthread.com/product/issue-61-print-version/
Get ANPTmag Issue 61 digital version here
https://www.aneedlepullingthread.com/product/issue-61-digital-version/
The combination of lace knitting, chart reading, eyelet details, and customizable sizing makes this an engaging project, while careful blocking reveals the full beauty and drape of the finished design.
Would you wear your Tiles and Tesserae Wrap to an autumn gathering, a holiday celebration, or any occasion that calls for a touch of handmade elegance?
Join me next week to find out which inspiring ANPTmag knitting project I’ll share with you!
