𝗢𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗩𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

The Old Shale stitch, often mistakenly referred to as the Feather and Fan stitch, is a classic lace knitting stitch that creates beautiful wave patterns.

It has a rich history, having been used for centuries in Shetland lace knitting, which gained popularity in the 19th century.

If you're looking for inspiration for your next knitting project, this article will introduce you to the beautiful Old Shale stitch and variations. Whether you prefer single-color, ombre, gradient, or self-striping yarns, the Old Shale stitch can easily adapt to your artistic vision.
Choosing the right yarn for the Old Shale stitch also depends on the effect you want to achieve, as the stitch's wavy lace pattern can look different based on the yarn type and weight.

Classic Old Shale stitch

It is typically worked over a multiple of 18 stitches.
Row 1 - RS: Knit.
Row 2: Purl.
Row 3: *(K2tog) three times, (YO, K1) six times, (K2tog) three times; rep from * to end.
Row 4: Knit.
Repeat rows 1-4.

Over time, knitters have developed many variations of Old Shale stitch by changing yarns, colors, stitch counts, and additional techniques.

Some of the popular variations of Old Shale stitch

Cast on a multiple of 18 stitches.

Pattern 1, use stockinette for the plain rows instead of garter stitch.

Row 1 - RS: Knit.
Row 2: Purl.
Row 3: *(K2tog) three times, (YO, K1) six times, (K2tog) three times; rep from * to end.
Row 4: Purl.
Repeat rows 1-4.

Pattern 2

Row 1 - RS: Knit.
Row 2: Purl.
Row 3: Knit.
Row 4: Purl.
Row 5: *(K2tog) three times, (YO, K1) six times, (K2tog) three times; rep from * to end.
Row 6: Knit.
Repeat rows 1-6.

Pattern 3

Row 1 - RS: Knit.
Row 2: Purl.
Row 3: * (P2tog) three times, (YO, K1) six times, (P2tog) three times; rep from * to end.
Row 4: Purl.
Repeat rows 1-4.

Pattern 4

Row 1 - RS: Knit.
Row 2: Purl.
Row 3: * (P2tog) three times, (YO, K1) six times, (P2tog) three times; rep from * to end.
Row 4: Knit.
Repeat rows 1-4.