One of the first knitting books I bought back when I was in college, Folk Shawls: 25 Knitting patterns and tales from around the world by Cheryl Oberle is still a perennial favorite when I’m looking for a new shawl or scarf to knit.
Published in 2000 and still in print today, it’s easy to see why it’s still popular. Each pattern section is from a different area around the world or time period, from the Faroe Islands to Spain and Victorian England. Speaking of the Victorian English, one of my favorite shawls, the Wool Peddler shawl is like a warm, comfortable hug when my home gets chilly in winter.
Mine was knit in FibraNatura Shepherd’s wn (sadly discontinued) which seemed aptly named for such a warm, sheepy yarn,
Having said that, all of the patterns I’ve knit from this book have been excellent. They’re well-written, and clearly tested multiple times before publication. Every pattern has a well-researched backstory which adds depth to the book. Even now nearly ten years after I bought this book, when I go yarn shopping or sift through my stash of yarn I think ‘this would be perfect for a new shawl from Folk Shawls.’ This is one of my most well-used pattern books and it stands the test of time.
Next up will be another of my favorites from Cheryl Oberle.