Flower Bell Stole

Flower Bell Stole by Janelle Martin

What is Being Made

The Flower Bell Stole is a versatile knitted accessory designed by Janelle Martin and available in three distinct sizes to suit different preferences and occasions. This downloadable PDF pattern offers options for a large stole measuring 84 inches long by 24 inches wide when stretched and blocked, a medium stole measuring 72 inches long by 18 inches wide, and a smaller scarf version measuring 54 inches long by 12 inches wide. Each version maintains the signature design aesthetic while scaling appropriately for different wearing styles and yarn requirements.

Construction Technique

The Flower Bell Stole employs a distinctive construction method that begins with the decorative edging. Rather than working from the center outward or top to bottom in a traditional manner, this pattern starts by creating the beautiful raised stitch patterns that form the characteristic "flower bell" edging. Once the edging is complete, stitches are picked up directly from that finished edge to begin working the body of the stole. The body stitches are worked toward the middle of the piece, then placed on waste yarn to be set aside. The second half of the stole is then worked in the same manner, and finally the two halves are grafted together seamlessly at the center, creating a symmetrical and polished finished garment.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern features several raised stitch patterns that work together to create the visual impact of the flower bell design. While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided content, the raised stitch techniques are central to achieving the dimensional, textured edging that gives this stole its distinctive name and appearance. The body of the stole is worked in stockinette stitch, as indicated by the gauge measurement provided in stockinette stitch.

Materials and Specifications

• Yarn Weight: Merino fingering weight yarn that knits up to 7 stitches per inch
• Yarn Yardage Required: 840 yards (768 meters) for the medium stole, 1,272 yards (1,163 meters) for the large stole, or 1,600 yards (1,463 meters) for the scarf version
• Yarn Fiber Content: The pattern is shown in String Theory Hand Dyed Yarn 'Caper Sock', which contains 80% merino fiber and comes in 400-yard (366-meter) skeins
• Needles: One US #4/3.5 mm circular needle in 32 to 40 inches (80 to 100 cm) length, or size necessary to obtain proper gauge
• Gauge: 25 stitches and 34 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch, unblocked

Skill Level and Difficulty

The Flower Bell Stole is classified as an intermediate level knitting project. This rating reflects the pattern's use of raised stitch techniques and the construction method involving picking up stitches from the edging and grafting two halves together. Knitters should have foundational skills in basic stitches and techniques before attempting this design, though the pattern provides the guidance needed to execute these intermediate-level methods successfully.

Design and Format

This pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, making it immediately accessible for knitters ready to begin their project. The format includes comprehensive instructions for all three size options within a single document, allowing crafters to choose their preferred finished dimensions before casting on.