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The exact origin of the compass rose is unknown. Ancient Greeks developed an 8-point system using the four cardinal directions and the four winds. A 12-point system was taught in the academies of Europe during the medieval era, but mariners created their own 8-point compass. A full compass rose contains 32 points, and mariners were expected to recite the names, also known as “boxing the compass.” Cartographers began adding the rose to maps to mark direction in the 1300s, and the 8-point is the most often seen.
This is the basis for the design of this shawl and the most recognized depiction. I find the compass rose to be an elegant design and representative of finding one’s own path. This piece is knitted in the round from the center out with a knitted-on wave edging.
Jaggerspun Zephyr, 50% merino wool/50% silk yarn,
laceweight, 5,040 yards (4,608.6 m)/16 ounce (453.6 g)
cone, 1 cone of Copper; this project requires about 12
ounces (340 g);
Needles, circular, 20 and 40 inches (50 and 100 cm),
and set of double pointed, size 1 (2.25 mm) or size
needed to obtain gauge
Knitter’s Pride Crochet Hook, steel, size 14 (.5 mm);
Seed beads, size 8/0 glass, 35 gram (1.2 oz)/container,
1 container each of Silver Lined Dark Gold AB and
Silver Lined Transparent Topaz; containers hold about
1,400 beads; this project requires about 950 Dark Gold
and 660 Transparent Topaz; www.earthfaire.com
Finished size: 66 inches (167.6 cm) in diameter
Gauge: 32 sts and 40 rnds = 4 inches (10.2 cm) in Stockinette st,
after blocking
