When the Jabob Damask was finished, I unceremoniously stuffed it in my suitcase and went to bed. I had an early flight and I just didn't want to be that crazy lady who shows up for work all exhausted and weird because she stayed up blocking lace. (Not that Tina and the other Sock Summit team members wouldn't get it, but it's still a good policy.) I remembered on the way to the airport that I'd forgotten my blocking pins, and sent Tina and email that said "bring pins". I landed, we drove, we got settled, and the next day I woke up chock full of blocking plans. The shawl went into the sink for a warm bath, and a few hours later I rinsed it, trotted it over to the bed, and asked Tina for the pins. She foraged in her stuff for a bit, then gave me about twenty pins.
That wasn't going to cut it, and there's no way that you do this much work for a shawl and then half-ass the blocking, so we managed to convince ourselves that a drive to Port Hadlock wasn't just something that would distract us from our work, but a mission that was noble and necessary. We would go quickly. We drove off, and 15 minutes later were walking into Dinah's Yarn Shop declaring a blocking emergency. (They're charming in that shop, let me tell you.) We were in and out with the pins in less than 5 minutes, and blocking the minute we were back.
I'm so very happy with how it turned out. A completely satisfying project.
I started with a Jacob fleece - acquired when I told Beth at the Spinning Loft that I was in the market for one, and she promptly pulled this lilac one out of her garage. (I am now convinced that Beth's garage holds no end of wonders.) 
I separated all the locks into individual colours... then washed, carded and spun them all separately.
(For those of you who care, I spun the singles long draw, then plied it to get a 2-ply. It's slightly underspun and overplied for bounce, and boy does it have it.) 
Then I chose what I think was the perfect pattern - Damask, by Kitman Figueroa, who has nothing wrong with her brain at all. Great pattern. 
The finished shawl is exactly as I dreamed it. Exactly. 
It's wingspan is about 140cm (that's about 56 inches), and the line down the centre back is 63cm - or 25", which is just about what I was hoping for. 
It is soft, and delicate, and sturdy all at once. 
I can't stop looking at it, or holding it, or squeezing it in my hand, and feeling the bounce and cushiness of the yarn. 
It is perfect, and it is exactly the reason I learned to spin. That shawl started in my head as an idea - and now it exists precisely the way I wanted it to - 
and I made it myself.
I feel really, really clever and happy.
You are really clever. Well done!
Posted by: Jeannine at May 18, 2011 12:14 PMBeautiful! Congratulations on completing it and STILL loving it!
Posted by: Jill at May 18, 2011 12:14 PMWOOT! Fan-freaking-tastic, girl! Looks beautiful and wonderful and awesome.
Enjoy.
Cheers,
It is rare that I feel moved to write a comment, but I needed to. I was not sure when you described this shawl (a few weeks ago) that I was going to like it. But I really do. It is truly lovely. And the fact that you took it from raw locks to this is just awesome. You should feel clever.
Posted by: Kelly at May 18, 2011 12:16 PMExcuse me while I go get something to wipe up the drool on my desk...
Posted by: Moonmaven at May 18, 2011 12:17 PMThat is so fabulous and gorgeous. Wow! That fleece deserved you.
Posted by: beth at May 18, 2011 12:18 PMCongratulations! It is beautiful -- excellent work all round!
Posted by: Janetp at May 18, 2011 12:18 PMStunning...absolutely STUNNING!
Posted by: Debbie at May 18, 2011 12:19 PMWOW! Simply gobsmacked WOW!
Posted by: Another Joan at May 18, 2011 12:20 PMReally, really beautiful!
Posted by: Donna at May 18, 2011 12:21 PMHoly Mother of God...that is drop dead gorgeous! My mouth is just hanging open in total adoration for that...actually...I am just speechless!
Posted by: Michele at May 18, 2011 12:23 PMHooray for the knitting (and spinning!) victories! Congratulations on an absolutely beautiful shawl -- AND achieving your vision!
Posted by: Liz in KC at May 18, 2011 12:24 PMBeautiful and brilliantly executed!
Posted by: bluesbee at May 18, 2011 12:24 PMFrom start...to finish...B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L!!!(:
Posted by: Janie at May 18, 2011 12:25 PMAB FAB!!
this is one beautiful shawl!! Need a photo of you wearing it!!
I am in awe of you and your skills and your vision. I loved seeing the project from fleece to finish (and loved hearing about the cat who had issues with the fleece too!). The only thing that would have improved this entire documented project would have been to have met the actual sheep who gave of it's wooly self to make such a beautiful shawl.
Posted by: Kathrin at May 18, 2011 12:27 PMAbsolutely utterly gorgeous.
And totally worth chasing the fleece around the house with a hair dryer. (Dead clever, the oven idea, but not nearly as much fun for the Blog.)
Posted by: RobinH at May 18, 2011 12:27 PMIt is really lovely. Sigh. I was skeptical about the graduated colors in such a busy pattern, but it turned out just lovely.
Posted by: amy at May 18, 2011 12:29 PMBeautiful. Absolutely amazing! I don't, honestly, know how you do it!
Posted by: Erin at May 18, 2011 12:32 PMsweet perfection!
Posted by: tina at May 18, 2011 12:33 PMBeautiful! And we totally need the Knitting Emergency Response Unit (http://whirlingneedles.wordpress.com/2011/05/02/the-knitting-emergency-response-unit/). You might have been too far away from the nearest LYS, and then where would you be?
Posted by: whirlybird at May 18, 2011 12:35 PMThat shawl is just amazing. Great job! :)
Posted by: Christine at May 18, 2011 12:36 PMIt's just lovely.
I do love Dinah's,they are always helpful. I have to laugh every time you blog from Port Ludlow, you drive right past me. One of these days you should stop for tea.
Posted by: Constantina at May 18, 2011 12:37 PMSo beautiful.
Posted by: Risa at May 18, 2011 12:37 PMDon't you love it when a plan comes together? It's lovely - the very definition of "heirloom."
Posted by: ChiLibrarian at May 18, 2011 12:38 PMThat is just such a beautiful shawl. You better hold on to it tight. I'm sure many will want to get their hands on it! ;)
Posted by: Ana at May 18, 2011 12:39 PMBeautiful. A great idea and it turned out perfect. Congratulations.
Posted by: Jennifer at May 18, 2011 12:39 PMOh my! "Beautiful" doesn't even do it justice! I hope when I learn how to spin, I will make something as amazing!
Posted by: Sara Kathryn at May 18, 2011 12:39 PMbeautiful sigh
Posted by: knitternicky at May 18, 2011 12:40 PMMy, that is indeed stunningly gorgeous! Well-done!
Posted by: Jessie at May 18, 2011 12:40 PMIt's dreamy!!!! Well done!
Posted by: Jennifer at May 18, 2011 12:41 PMOh My that is STUNNING, and you made it yourself from scratch. I am once again in awe of your abilities. I do not wear shawls, but I would wear that one over and over. Just beautiful.
Posted by: Cinnamon at May 18, 2011 12:41 PMit's stunning!
Posted by: jen at May 18, 2011 12:42 PMWhat a beauty! It must be so satisfying to have created every part of it with your own hands. Enjoy reveling in your new shawl!
Posted by: Luba at May 18, 2011 12:42 PMYou are clever! Good going you! That is a stunning, heirloom-quality shawl. I love love love it.
Posted by: Laurie at May 18, 2011 12:42 PMI love Jacob wool! Beautiful shawl!
Posted by: kern at May 18, 2011 12:42 PMI think that's the first time I've ever gasped upon seeing a shawl
Posted by: Amy at May 18, 2011 12:43 PMWow. That. Yes, that just might get me to start spinning.
Posted by: Erica at May 18, 2011 12:44 PMWhoa. I may have gotten a little dizzy there for a moment. That is amazing - fantastic work. Enjoy!
Posted by: Melanie at May 18, 2011 12:44 PMI just realized: there should be Nobel prizes for things like this. That shawl deserves a Nobel prize for sheer grace and beauty. I hereby nominate you!
Posted by: Donna at May 18, 2011 12:44 PMYou are a clever girl Steph, that shawl is amazing! I love the yarn you spun as well. So beautiful!
Posted by: Charlotte at May 18, 2011 12:45 PMWOW! It's GORGEOUS! And, it's almost inspiring enough to make me want to learn to spin... almost. :-D Really, it's wonderful!
Posted by: Michelle at May 18, 2011 12:48 PMJust beautiful, nice work!
Posted by: kristin at May 18, 2011 12:49 PMPERFECT! Absolutely Perfect! Well Done!
Posted by: April at May 18, 2011 12:50 PMStanding and applauding the effort, and the talent, to create such a thing of beauty.
Posted by: Knitsiam at May 18, 2011 12:51 PMLove the photographs of your shawl in the dappled light of the Port Ludlow woods.
Posted by: Cindyh at May 18, 2011 12:53 PMbeautiful!
Posted by: Elisabeth at May 18, 2011 12:55 PMLike!
Posted by: Mel at May 18, 2011 12:55 PMWonderful and so nice to see the before the shawl was yarn photos. Very cool to see where processing wool, spinning wool, knitting wool can take one.
Posted by: rebekah at May 18, 2011 12:55 PMCongratulations! It's beautiful!
Posted by: sprite at May 18, 2011 12:56 PMJUST like a dandelion - good on you!
Posted by: Jaylee at May 18, 2011 12:56 PMIt is beautiful!
Posted by: Rebecca at May 18, 2011 12:57 PMIt's absolutely lovely, and I can just feel it in my hands, the soft squoosh of it. Beautiful! I'm so happy for you!
Posted by: Lene (not that one) at May 18, 2011 12:58 PMWell have to say all the prep and fussing was worth it. Pics of someone wearing it would be cool.
Posted by: Sheryl at May 18, 2011 12:58 PMClever, happy and probably the reason many of us have just fallen off our current wagon of monogamy.
No had feelings over the distraction. Stunningly beautiful.
(Make sure Tina doesn't steal it!)
Posted by: marcy at May 18, 2011 12:58 PMWow..it's really beautiful. Great work!
Posted by: Donna at May 18, 2011 12:58 PMabsolutely lovely. You have out done yourself on this one. It's incredibly elegant.
Posted by: Lynne in Mi at May 18, 2011 12:59 PMSo wonderful. I am not an accomplished knitter YET but sometimes I even have to kiss my small victories. A bit of a freak I know.
Posted by: Jennifer at May 18, 2011 1:00 PMOMG - this is one of the most magnificent things I've ever seen. You must be so proud, having had a hand in ever single bit of this process outside of growing the wool. Any thoughts on how you can do that in the future??
Posted by: Pam at May 18, 2011 1:00 PMOh, it's just gorgeous! Way to go.
Posted by: Shelly at May 18, 2011 1:00 PMMay I just say, you deserve that shawl... :)
Posted by: Samantha at May 18, 2011 1:01 PMIncredible piece of art! I want one for myself!
Posted by: emy@thehandiworks at May 18, 2011 1:01 PMOh that is just beautiful and I WANT IT!!! ;-)
Posted by: Sheri at May 18, 2011 1:01 PMAll I can say is OMG that is beautiful. You've inspired me to finish my baby llama fleece(i'm at the carding stage now) for my Llama to shawl/scarf series. Thank you so much for inspiring me.
Posted by: Brandi at May 18, 2011 1:02 PMWow, truly stunning. Your brain is a marvel, girl.
Posted by: Jamie at May 18, 2011 1:03 PMit is indeed, amazing stunning fabulous.
please bring to SS11 so we can marvel at it in person. I'm still trying to determine the number of distinct colors... 6?
Posted by: Kathy at May 18, 2011 1:05 PMOMG! That's stunning! I look at that and for one tiny little second think "I could knit that." Then I remember who I am and move on. It is beautiful though :)
Posted by: Keri at May 18, 2011 1:06 PMI loved the entire process from start to finish. I especially love the gradation of colors from dark to light. beautiful work! You are quite clever!
Posted by: Elida Hamilton at May 18, 2011 1:07 PMunbelievably lovely! You are so talented. I don't wear shawls, but I would be wearing that one every day, every where I went. : )
Posted by: Mary at May 18, 2011 1:10 PMSo rare are these projects that are fulfilling from beginning to end. Congrats!
Posted by: twelvedaysold at May 18, 2011 1:13 PMWow wow wow!! Yup, that's a winner in every respect. Here's hoping we'll see it at Sock Summit? (Be careful, though - you'll be petted by knitters and spinners everywhere.)
Posted by: Jocelyn at May 18, 2011 1:14 PMI have to ask... I'm having a hard time telling from the photos, but did you omit the nupps? I've made a Damask, and it's such a lovely pattern. Did you decide to do a nupp-less version? I'd love to see a close-up!
Posted by: Sarah V. at May 18, 2011 1:16 PMThat is so beautiful it makes me want to both learn how to spin and knit lace shawls, two activities that previously held no interest for me whatsoever (I am more of a sock girl). Wow.
Posted by: Melanie at May 18, 2011 1:16 PMGorgeous! I hope my sheepies can make a fleece as pretty. I know I can't spin and knit a shawl as pretty as yours :)
Posted by: Michele at May 18, 2011 1:16 PMBeautiful!!!! WOW! Well, I guess that's another pattern in my favorites that I have to go buy. I bet designers get SO excited when you pick their patterns for your projects. ^_^
Posted by: KathyC at May 18, 2011 1:16 PMWhen I do a spinning demo for kids, I ask them why I would spin instead of just buying yarn, or for that matter just buying a finished item. Someone usually says it's cheaper. I go into a bit of detail on how false that is. (I mention McDonald's.) Eventually someone hits on "because you can get exactly what you want."
Sometimes.
Well done.
Posted by: Lucia at May 18, 2011 1:17 PMYour shawl is breath-taking. I have tears in my eyes, it's so beautiful. I just love the photo of it spread out on the rock.
Posted by: Bobbie in AK at May 18, 2011 1:17 PMOooooohh, yummy shawl, Stephanie! I hope you wear it at the Sock Summit!
Posted by: auntiemichal at May 18, 2011 1:17 PMWow! One of my favorite pieces I've seen photos of.
Posted by: tinuviel at May 18, 2011 1:18 PMReally, really beautiful. To be so smart, talented and a knitter too. Wow.
Posted by: Maryanne W. at May 18, 2011 1:19 PMStunning. Absolutely stunning. Bravo. xo
Posted by: meghann at May 18, 2011 1:20 PMAbsolutely beautiful! What a satisfying feeling to take a project from an idea in your brain to a completed (beautiful) shawl in your hands!
Posted by: April at May 18, 2011 1:20 PMThis is a shining example of why I NEED to learn how to spin!!
Posted by: Ginger at May 18, 2011 1:21 PMAbsolutely gorgeous! Thank you so much for sharing the entire process from sheep to shawl with us. LOVE IT LOVE IT Love it!
Posted by: Nancyva at May 18, 2011 1:21 PMWow - that is just gorgeous! I am continually impressed with the work you do...
Posted by: Lora at May 18, 2011 1:24 PMExquisite.
Posted by: Juliet in Grand Rapids at May 18, 2011 1:24 PMlovely!
Posted by: Jenn at May 18, 2011 1:24 PMOMG!! That is the absolutely most gorgeous thing ever created by 2 hands and needles!! You have achieved a new height--you must be 6 feet tall by now! What a magnificent piece...you are truly my idol...
Posted by: Ruth in NJ at May 18, 2011 1:26 PMThat is bloody gorgeous! The thing that intimidates me about spinning is what to do with the yarn afterwards. Nice to see a project from fleece to finish!
Posted by: Solarmama at May 18, 2011 1:26 PMNow that's an exquisite work of art! Just gorgeous!
Posted by: Samina at May 18, 2011 1:26 PMWow, Steph. It is awesomely lovely!! You conceived, bore, and nursed it to completion...even though the weaning was a little difficult near the end! I wish I could see and touch it in person....
Posted by: Tece at May 18, 2011 1:26 PMAhhhh, it's a wonderful feeling indeed. :) Yours is a magnficently lovely shawl -- like Mary Poppins, perfect in every way. Salute!
Posted by: Cortster at May 18, 2011 1:28 PMMagic! Pure and simple. And with a bit of genius thrown in. Gorgeous.
Posted by: Elaine at May 18, 2011 1:29 PMYou should feel clever and happy. That is one breath-takingly beautiful piece of work.
Posted by: Georgia at May 18, 2011 1:29 PMSee thats the vision I lack...glad you have it tho...Beautiful...
Posted by: Nancy at May 18, 2011 1:30 PMSimply stunning!
Posted by: Hope at May 18, 2011 1:30 PMWOW!!!
Posted by: Linda at May 18, 2011 1:32 PMThat is amazingly gorgeous!
Posted by: Molly at May 18, 2011 1:33 PMI rarely comment on your blog but wow this is beautiful!! When you say you did long draw from the locks did you do it from the fold or the end of the lock?
Just beautiful work!
Posted by: Natalie at May 18, 2011 1:33 PMIt is absolutely gorgeous and you are indeed a clever fiber artist! Great job, as usual, and a great inspiration to us newbie spinners!
Posted by: Mary Lou at May 18, 2011 1:36 PMOh gee, after yesterday's panic, I was holding my breath. It was awful to wait through fixing breakfast to open your blog. And there it is-a beautiful, thrilling work of art from a beautiful, thrilling artist. Thank you for your gift.
Posted by: lynne at May 18, 2011 1:37 PMClever isn't the half of it. That shawl is a beautiful, thoughtful and very true expression of skill.
I still haven't made anything from my handspun (not that I have a very large amount of completed handspun), and this is the kind of ispiration that kicks my butt into gear! Thank you for sharing the full process!
Gorgeous!!!! Now I must go spin, forget the laundry and cleaning that needs to be done!
Posted by: Kris M at May 18, 2011 1:41 PMStunning, amazing, gorgeous...there are so many adjectives I could use to describe your work! Love the shawl!
Posted by: Heather at May 18, 2011 1:41 PMVery thankful for sheep! Lovely shawl!
Posted by: Mandy at May 18, 2011 1:44 PMThat is absolutely BEAUTIFUL! I love it.
Posted by: Dawn at May 18, 2011 1:53 PMVery very pretty. I would love to let it run through my hands. :)
Posted by: Joey B. at May 18, 2011 1:54 PMWell done! It's very beautiful.
Posted by: MicheleinMaine at May 18, 2011 1:55 PMBeautiful! Wear it in good health!
Posted by: mk at May 18, 2011 1:55 PMWow! Really gorgeous--Congratulations on a job exceedingly well done!
That is so unbelievably and undeniably beautiful. Congratulations on another fabulous piece finished. I wish I had a quarter of your talent.
Posted by: Lizz at May 18, 2011 1:58 PMWorth the wait. It's just absolutely beautiful!! :-)
Posted by: SueP at May 18, 2011 2:03 PMIt is gorgeous! My gut tells me that this is going to be an heirloom piece for sure!
p.s. After reading your blog for many months, I have finally cured myself of my dpn fear and have succesfully knit my very first sock; it's a very basic sock, but it's a sock!! Thanks for the inspiration...
Posted by: Dawn W. at May 18, 2011 2:04 PMSome day I want grow up and spin and knit just like you.
Posted by: Lydia at May 18, 2011 2:05 PMAbsolutely beautiful! I can't wait for my spinning class this summer, though I doubt I will ever be able to achieve anything this wonderful.
Kudos!
Posted by: Spice at May 18, 2011 2:05 PMThat is just breathtaking. Thankyou for showing me what it's possible to achieve with spinning.
Posted by: josiekitten at May 18, 2011 2:06 PMWOW! Just WOW! Congratulations Stephanie, it's spectacular!
Posted by: Heather G at May 18, 2011 2:07 PMYou are a true artist. From concept to completion, it's all yours. And it's BEAUTIFUL. Well done, Stephanie!
Posted by: Rhonda from Baddeck at May 18, 2011 2:08 PMThat is so so so beautiful. congrats!
Posted by: Leah at May 18, 2011 2:10 PMHoly buckets that's beautiful!
Posted by: Cassie at May 18, 2011 2:12 PMOMGodgorgeous!
Posted by: Jcoop at May 18, 2011 2:12 PMSo beautiful! Congratulations!
Posted by: Meghan at May 18, 2011 2:13 PMStephanie, your shawl is beautiful!
Posted by: julie at May 18, 2011 2:14 PMIt's bloody breath taking amazing beautiful butterfly....
You s/pin my head right round :)
.....*tres grandes sighs*
absolutely positively fabulous!!!!!
Posted by: Patti HN at May 18, 2011 2:17 PMGorgeous... (Hummm... I wonder if I have any jacobs. I have that bin of random, assorted stuff from ebay... time to go rummaging...)
Posted by: Mary Peed at May 18, 2011 2:18 PMTruly one of the most gorgeous things I've ever seen. Well done!
Posted by: Cindi at May 18, 2011 2:19 PMWOW! Absolutely gorgeous. A shawl beautifully completed. Congratulatons Stephanie!
Posted by: Pat L at May 18, 2011 2:22 PMWowsers! That's the most beautiful knitting! It's stunning.
Posted by: jessi at May 18, 2011 2:22 PMIt is beautiful and perfect.
And you are the woman who believes the Universe seeks balance.
Remember the big foot at the end of the Monty Python intro?
I do love you. Just check between the sheets, sit with your back to a wall and let someone else take the first bite. Just for a while.
It is beautiful and perfect.
WOW! THAT is why I started spinning! I have not yet managed to finish a project myself - spinning on a drop spindle doesn't go as fast as I'd like it to. Your Damask just gives me that extra tad of motivation!
Posted by: Dieuwke at May 18, 2011 2:28 PMHold onto that shawl for dear life because it's something awesome. Knitters and non-knitters alike will vouch for that.
Posted by: Suzanne at May 18, 2011 2:28 PMWONDERFUL! Congratulations. It's lovely, and I'll bet it feels even better than it looks. Carry it with you everywhere, please, so I can admire it in person the next time our paths cross.
Posted by: Deborah Robson at May 18, 2011 2:29 PMGosh - how beautiful - well done happy and clever one - that realisation of 'idea' is one of the greatest things about crafting
Posted by: Sarah at May 18, 2011 2:29 PMIn a word: beautiful. Simply beautiful. :-)
Posted by: Nancy at May 18, 2011 2:30 PMBreathtaking! I'm not especially a fan of knitted things that change color from section to section. It must hark back to those old 1970's ripple crochet afghans. But Stephanie - this shawl is stunning. The quiet shades of gray blend into each other so well and it LOOKS as soft and wonderful as you describe. The first picture of it immediately made me think of a luna moth - all soft and quiet and graceful. I HOPE this one is for you. You have every right to be feeling proud.
...aaaaaaaaaand I wonder how many people are right this minute out looking for a lilac Jacob sheep in need of a little trim...
Posted by: sascha at May 18, 2011 2:35 PMYou've got to feel great about creating a ONE of a kind "Damask". It is beyond Gee-Orge-Us!!!! Don't let your daughters borrow this shawl....you must keep it safe. Gosh, I hope I didn't jinx it.
Anyway it is simply Yummers.
Oh. /sits and contemplates the shawl for a while. It turned out even lovelier than I had been imagining. You make me want to be a better spinner, for sure. Someday I want to be able to do that.
Posted by: Wyldchai at May 18, 2011 2:38 PMThis is my goal that in the next three years I will have learned enough to create something this gorgeous. I am in awe!
Posted by: Kate M at May 18, 2011 2:41 PMOh! It's just beautiful, I can hardly believe how soft and squishy and delicate it looks. Great pattern, really perfect for the yarn. Congratulations!!
Posted by: Laura H at May 18, 2011 2:44 PMYou knit more in one year than I could knit in a lifetime. What do you do with all your knitted items????
Posted by: TLP at May 18, 2011 2:44 PMIt has been great to go on this adventure with you.
Congratulations!
You are clever and you should definitely be happy. When you described what you wanted, the picture I had in my head was something just like what you photographed. Excellent work!
Posted by: Bonnie at May 18, 2011 2:45 PMWow, it turned out so well. Congratulations on an amazing project!
Posted by: Kalkette at May 18, 2011 2:46 PMLovely. I don't blame you for just wanting to sit and stare at/pet it. I want to as well, too bad it's so far away. :)
Posted by: Gigi at May 18, 2011 2:47 PMYou are one amazing woman! It is gorgous!
Posted by: SweatPeaJenny at May 18, 2011 2:48 PMYa done good, girlie! It's gorgeous :-)
Posted by: Norma at May 18, 2011 2:48 PMAbsolutely stunning! I've enjoyed following this journey from sheep to shawl, and the end result is fabulous!
Posted by: Megan at May 18, 2011 2:49 PMI like it so much I'm going to go see if you've put it on ravelry yet, so I can 'favorite' it. It really is a lovely shawl. Just lovely.
Posted by: Kim at May 18, 2011 2:50 PMOh good lord above - that is one beautiful shawl. I actually have that pattern, but I've not made it yet. Good thing you aren't my neighbor as I would be planning a covert mission to whisk that away to my house. The yarn is just spectacular in it's variation. So, the question is, when and where are you going to wear it first??? Pictures please!
Posted by: Diana at May 18, 2011 2:50 PMStunning!
Posted by: Charlene at May 18, 2011 2:50 PMAhh! That is absolutely beautiful!!
Posted by: Holly at May 18, 2011 2:50 PMoh my goodness, that is gorgeous!! wow!
Posted by: juniperjune at May 18, 2011 2:52 PMIt's stunning! And it was wonderful to watch it go from an unwashed fleece to such a beautiful shawl. Inspiring!
Posted by: charlotte at May 18, 2011 2:55 PMWow! That is a lovely shawl. The sheep would be proud!
Posted by: Lori on Little Traverse Bay at May 18, 2011 2:56 PMOooooh, it is so pretty! I am sure you will enjoy wearing it.
Sigh! And now the saga of the Jacob Damask is over...
Posted by: Leslie F at May 18, 2011 3:00 PMAbsolutely gorgeous!
Posted by: Lisa R at May 18, 2011 3:02 PMAs a fairly long-time alpaca breeder, about 4 years a knitter, and really brand spankin' new to spinning, I am inspired beyond belief. I've followed all the individual posts, but thanks for doing the grand "sum-up" here. Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous!
Posted by: Sally at Rivendale Farms at May 18, 2011 3:03 PMThat...is so worth the emergency spinning at the end and roadtrips for pins, isn't it? Absolutely gorgeous!
Posted by: Sarah at May 18, 2011 3:05 PMAWSOME! You produced a most beautiful shawl! If you ever need and/or want to purchase a Jacob fleece again, I have an inside with someone in Maryland who owns a Jacob sheep farm. She is a most charming Biologist and her farm is wonderful. Her name is Ralene and her is her webiste: http://www.blueflowerflock.com/. Again, I say AWSOME!
Posted by: Tonja at May 18, 2011 3:05 PMYou should feel absolutely clever and happy. That shawl is a thing of beauty. As the little red hen said, "And I'll do it myself!"
Posted by: Carol at May 18, 2011 3:05 PMWhere's the LOVE button, eh?
FANTASTIC work! Thanks for always inspiring me with your beautiful creations.
Posted by: Nathalie at May 18, 2011 3:06 PMStunning! Just stunning!
Posted by: Carol B at May 18, 2011 3:11 PMI Love it! Beautiful. I just finished my very first real lace shawl--Gothic Moss by Kitman Figueroa as well.
Your shawl is truly beautiful!
Posted by: Lisa Ragan at May 18, 2011 3:13 PMBreathtaking. Absolutely phenomenally beautiful. Congratulations on a fantastic job well done. :)
Posted by: Jen Showalter at May 18, 2011 3:16 PMOh my bob that's gorgeous. I want to curl up with it and hug it to sleep.
Posted by: Jules at May 18, 2011 3:19 PMYou should feel very smug. There's nothing like taking a big pile of greasy fuzz and making something beautiful and useful with it!
Posted by: johann at May 18, 2011 3:21 PMYou are very clever and talented! What a beautiful shawl. So perfect!!!
Posted by: Kelly K. at May 18, 2011 3:21 PMThis is one of those projects that makes my heart flutter just to look at it. I'd be in the park showing it to perfect strangers...it's that lovely.
Posted by: Carina at May 18, 2011 3:23 PMAmazing!
Posted by: knitmo at May 18, 2011 3:26 PMI am in awe. Gorgeous. I hope I someday make something so pretty!
Posted by: watercolorgirl at May 18, 2011 3:26 PMUnbelievably gorgeous.
Posted by: molly M at May 18, 2011 3:27 PMYAY, it's awesome! That's one of the most exciting things about knitting -- something starts as an idea in your head and then you make it so. Non-knitters (and non-crafters, for that matter) just don't understand. : )
Kelly @ www.allaboutknitting.net
Posted by: Kelly at May 18, 2011 3:29 PMI want to say, "That's stunning!" But I find the term is totally inadequate. Wow. Just, wow.
Posted by: Stefka at May 18, 2011 3:29 PMIt IS perfect. Wow.
Posted by: Ashley at May 18, 2011 3:35 PMBeautiful!
Posted by: Dee at May 18, 2011 3:41 PMAll I can say is wow!
Posted by: Kristyn at May 18, 2011 3:42 PMWow. That really is an accomplishment. I love the natural colors, too. Our great great grannies would be very proud of you, too. It's just lovely.
Posted by: Rani at May 18, 2011 3:44 PMWow, indeed. Beyond lovely, that shawl!
Posted by: Beth at May 18, 2011 3:51 PMThe shawl is absolutely gorgeous; it is just as I imagined it when you first described it a while back...GREEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAT JOB!
Posted by: Adriana at May 18, 2011 3:52 PMThat is a gorgeous shawl. I am so impressed that you made it from fleece to finish.
Posted by: liz at May 18, 2011 3:52 PMBeautiful. I will add this to my eleventy one and a million other 'must do' shawls!
Posted by: Angela at May 18, 2011 3:54 PMAnd things like this are exactly why I've just bought my first drop spindle and bag of fluff :) It's beautiful.
Posted by: Jenny at May 18, 2011 3:55 PMLovely
Posted by: Judith at May 18, 2011 3:59 PMBy far my favourite FO of yours. It is perfect, and inspires me to get going on my plans to learn how to spin (I have the same spinning wheel sitting in my dining room, but sadly, I don't know how to use it yet.)
Posted by: Nicole at May 18, 2011 4:01 PMAbsolutely beautiful. You're a wonder.
Posted by: Kathleen at May 18, 2011 4:04 PMI am blown away
Posted by: DrLoretta at May 18, 2011 4:05 PMHow beautiful! It's really, really gorgeous!
Posted by: May at May 18, 2011 4:05 PMBeautiful. Do you have enough white to make yourself some more loveliness?
Posted by: Seanna Lea at May 18, 2011 4:06 PMYep. I'm jealous. My spinning prowess isn't nearly as good, if it ever will be...and my attempts at lace are laughable.
Oh well. I'll live vicariously through you.
Posted by: Renee Anne at May 18, 2011 4:08 PMAnd that is exactly why we spin :)
Posted by: Ellen Bloomfield at May 18, 2011 4:11 PMBeautiful. Absolutely stunning.
Posted by: Lisa Hawn at May 18, 2011 4:12 PMto me what's so cool is that all the color variation comes from one sheep. i heart wool.
Posted by: steven a. at May 18, 2011 4:14 PMSheer knitterly genius!
Posted by: Mary B at May 18, 2011 4:15 PMThe fourth picture stopped me in my tracks, eliciting a whispered "Beautiful." Very well done, stunning shawl!
Posted by: Brandi at May 18, 2011 4:21 PMWell done, Stephanie. The shawl is stunning!
Posted by: samm at May 18, 2011 4:29 PMOh Steph, when I first started reading your blog a few years ago, phrases like "I can't stop looking at it, or holding it, or squeezing it in my hand, and feeling the bounce and cushiness of the yarn." would've had me going "what is it with this woman and wool?" But you've infected me.
I can now proudly say that I had that EXACT situation happen to me with my last pair of mittens. I too felt clever and I wanted to thank you for all of the inspiration (PS you've totally converted me to wool - which is saying a lot as I was solidly cotton for YEARS).
Posted by: Amelia at May 18, 2011 4:32 PMBe committed - do what it takes - you will have what you want.
From Conversations With God. -- guess you got that message!!
Posted by: Nancy Sheck at May 18, 2011 4:32 PMBeautiful, simply stunning!!
I wish I could spin as well as you do, but I am still "in the beginning stages" with my spinning wheel.
I am glad that you like, no love the shawl is all its stunning glory!
Posted by: Liz at May 18, 2011 4:33 PMIt is absolutely stunning!
I am speechless with awe!!!Beautiful, beautiful work! You are so amazing. From the bag of fleece at the first to the wonder of the thing of completion is just fantastic. It looks like a beautiful moth spreading its wings for flight. Good job you creative genius.
Posted by: Lynn at May 18, 2011 4:34 PMThat is a thing of real beauty.
Posted by: Lucy at May 18, 2011 4:35 PMJust stunning. Enjoy!
Posted by: Nan in CT at May 18, 2011 4:35 PMWOW! The finished product is just beautiful! It's beyond words! I hope that I can knit like that some day! Enjoy!
Posted by: Trish Carpenter at May 18, 2011 4:42 PMYou are really clever and you should be happy. That is a beautiful shawl, and always will be. You should be ver proud and pleased.
Posted by: garret at May 18, 2011 4:46 PMBreathtaking, literally. Well done!
Posted by: Marisa at May 18, 2011 4:49 PMSo. Awesome. Both the shawl and its story.
Posted by: nursenikkiknits at May 18, 2011 4:51 PMwow, it's so beautiful, and call me crazy but having read all your ups and downs with it, I feel part of it. lol. nonsense, I know. Anyway, what you gonna wear it with???
x
Drop. Dead. Gorgeous.
Posted by: Carol at May 18, 2011 4:57 PMDrop dead gorgeous!!! I LOVE IT!! And...I'm not a fan of gray, but the edging on this and how it blends up into the white is stunning. Awesome work!
Tamara
Ooo, so gorgeous! Is this for you, or is it going to a new home?
Posted by: Awfulknitter at May 18, 2011 4:58 PMThat's what it's all about!!
Posted by: Juti at May 18, 2011 5:02 PMIt's beautiful - truly beautiful.
Posted by: LostCityDenise at May 18, 2011 5:03 PMCongratulations on finishing (and blocking) the shawl - it is gorgeous!
Posted by: Kim at May 18, 2011 5:06 PMUtterly amazing.
Classy, classic and oh, so beautiful.
Congratulations on an outstanding achievement!
I am in awe of your mad skills!
I have yet to understand the attraction of shawls, but even I can see that one is a stunner. Amazing work!
Posted by: Suzanne at May 18, 2011 5:09 PMI love the last two lines. They made me smile as reading your blog often makes me do (if not laugh out loud and spew tea out my nose) I know the feeling, too!
Posted by: Lynn at May 18, 2011 5:14 PMIt is so beautiful! Congrats on a job well done.
Posted by: Connie at May 18, 2011 5:20 PMLovely, lovely, lovely.
Posted by: melissa at May 18, 2011 5:24 PMPhoto shoot of you in Volt skirt, Jacob shawl, and Bludstones (plus a T shirt)- I can see it in my mind's eye. I don't know if these will be quite 'right', in the colour similarity/contrast vision.
Very knitterly. Lovely project execution.
Posted by: StellaMM at May 18, 2011 5:39 PMI wish things I knit would turn out as I visualize them.
CONGRATULATIONS!
Strikingly beautiful. I have wool I am spinning now, but think it will be more like lace weight. Going to try the Damask pattern on it. Again, strikingly beautiful. Wish me luck.
Posted by: Blondell at May 18, 2011 5:53 PMO.M.G. Gorgeous!
Posted by: Barbara at May 18, 2011 5:53 PMWe throw words like "gorgeous" around a lot when it comes to describing knitting FOs. Which leaves me at a loss as to where to go about this.
Perfect.
Yeah. That works.
Posted by: Ro at May 18, 2011 5:56 PMYou are really clever - with the spinning, knitting, words and photos. This is what knitting is all about!
Just keep the happy scarf for yourself - don't you dare give it away!!
Posted by: Jean at May 18, 2011 6:08 PMDe-lurking to say that this is the perfect use for that fleece. I don't think I've ever seen anything so lovely, and I really, really want to give it a squeeze. Maybe it's time for me to dig out the fleece that's in my closet, and dust off that spinning wheel.
Fantastic, and extremely inspiring!
Posted by: clairz at May 18, 2011 6:14 PMAbsolutely perfect. Just like you planned!
Posted by: Jeanne at May 18, 2011 6:19 PMWhat a beautiful piece of work. I have two, count them, 2 of my very own Jacob fleece sitting in big plastic bags. I've been sitting at the edge of my seat to see how this project turned out. I am so excited and inspired to get started! Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Angie at May 18, 2011 6:22 PMTotally makes me want to cross over to the dark side & learn to spin! Gorgeous!
Posted by: Carol at May 18, 2011 6:22 PMWow. That is stunning! Wear it proudly!
Posted by: Danielle at May 18, 2011 6:26 PMI love it. I love that you had this awesome idea and followed through on it. And I love that some sweet little sheep had the courtesy to grow wool in all those lovely colors just so you could knit up your dream shawl.
Posted by: Sharon in Michigan at May 18, 2011 6:27 PMOh! It is beautiful. You are an inspiration.
Posted by: kris at May 18, 2011 6:39 PMThe shawl is drop dead GORGEOUS.
How long do you suppose it will be before one of your girls steals it? ;o)
wow doesn't even come close! this is beautiful! i have chills just looking at it. THANK YOU so much for sharing it with us!
Posted by: cathy w at May 18, 2011 6:58 PMWhoa - fantastic! I've been watching and waiting for this final post and it was totally worth it. Just exquisite.
Posted by: Espace Tricot at May 18, 2011 7:12 PMOh my gosh, Stephanie, that is absolutely gorgeous! Shawls are generally nice and all that, but not something that really trips my trigger, however, this is very different. A real masterpiece!! Congratulations on a perfectly executed plan :)
Posted by: Cheryl at May 18, 2011 7:18 PMAAAaaaoooooowoow (or however that is spelled) WANT!! What a gorgeous job!
Posted by: alison at May 18, 2011 7:19 PMWell done you- I agree that it is perfect!
Posted by: Trista at May 18, 2011 7:37 PMThis makes me wish I knew how to spin. A thing of beauty!
Posted by: Karen at May 18, 2011 7:50 PMTake a nose to toes bow Missy that is a seriously beautiful shawl. The Queen herself would be honored to wear it.
Posted by: Linda in Oregon at May 18, 2011 7:55 PMOh, the child in me really, really hopes you have some just-barely-chilly nights to come before summer swoops in smothers us. Is the person who taught you to spin around to see this? Hope so.
Posted by: JoAnn at May 18, 2011 7:58 PMJust perfect. I have a lovely tablecloth and bedspread from my Great-Great-Grandmother Anne America Virginia who grew the flax and spun the linen and crocheted the pieces--so does my sister and so do my cousins. They are true heirlooms-- and so is yours. I can imagine the Jacob Damask warming some future grateful great-great-grandchild of yours...what a wonderful feeling to have created it. Congratulations!
Posted by: Sarah at May 18, 2011 8:06 PMI look at the pictures of that lovely shawl, and imagine it created by a woman of an earlier century, on a bleak frontier, who labors day after day to wrest a home from the wilderness, and at night by the fire spins and knits until she has created a gossamer wing whose warmth encompasses her body as its beauty soothes her soul.
Or a more modern woman, who, spending much of her time racing through airports, is no less in need of comfort.
It's a vision fulfilled. Perfect.
Posted by: Maureen J at May 18, 2011 8:13 PMBeautiful. Simply Beautiful.
Posted by: Laurie at May 18, 2011 8:15 PMIt's not often I see knitted work these days that really stuns me, but boy does that ever do it. Gorgeous.
Posted by: Christina at May 18, 2011 8:17 PMI usually covet all of your knits, but don't comment. This shall is absolutely amazing! I am sure the pictures don't begin to do it justice! Job well done, Stephanie. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Posted by: KERaven at May 18, 2011 8:17 PMJust lovely. I think I'll have to start knitting shawls now. Or spinning. Or both.
Posted by: sharon at May 18, 2011 8:27 PMStunning. Just stunning. You have definitely inspired me to start spinning again, after about a 4 year hiatus while I've been too busy having babies to spin. My Saturday night plans are set: spinning!!
Posted by: Sara at May 18, 2011 8:29 PMLovely. And I think that's one of the coolest things about knitting--a single person really can go from raw material to finished project. Well done!
Posted by: EvelynU at May 18, 2011 8:30 PMIt's wonderful - an absolute inspiration. Congratulations!
Posted by: Trudy at May 18, 2011 8:35 PMStephanie
That is the the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.
Donna
oh my.
Posted by: Stacy at May 18, 2011 8:50 PMAbsolutely BEAUTIFUL!!!!!
Posted by: Abbie at May 18, 2011 8:55 PMYou win at all the knitting. Forever.
Posted by: Holly Jane at May 18, 2011 8:58 PMWow, that is absolutely stunning.
I wish I could touch it, but my monitor wont' let me :(
Posted by: Crystal at May 18, 2011 9:01 PMThat is absolutely beautiful. A work of art. It must feel sooo nice to wear! You.Are.Awesome.
Posted by: JudyG at May 18, 2011 9:01 PMIt's beautiful and absolutely perfect. Thank you for sharing the whole project here: your've reminded me why I learned how to spin, too, and given a small boot to the arse that I should get back to it to create my own fluff-to-thing projects!
Posted by: Emily HK at May 18, 2011 9:02 PMWhat a lovely creation! Really stunning. I hope it is for you and you wear it often.
Posted by: tree at May 18, 2011 9:08 PMhey! You have my spinning wheel I think! :) Is it an Ashford ca. 1975? http://www.ashford.co.nz/newsite/images/stories/history/Traditional.pdf
That makes me happy :) Great job on the shawl, I just love it.
Posted by: Meghan Mulkerin at May 18, 2011 9:21 PMAs so you should. That shawl is glorious, absolutely glorious.
The Jacob Sheep Association (is there one?) could use it in their ads.
Way to go Steph!
Posted by: Susan S at May 18, 2011 9:23 PMAbsolutely beautiful!
Posted by: Kelli at May 18, 2011 9:28 PMAbsolutely Beautiful.
Posted by: Mary E.Dadds at May 18, 2011 9:31 PMI saw that on ravelry and I gasped out loud. So amazing.
Posted by: Kate at May 18, 2011 9:36 PMMagnificent. Absolutely magnificent.
Posted by: Elizabeth in VT at May 18, 2011 9:41 PM..............wow.
would that i could... someday? :)
wow - this is just stunningly beautiful - leaves one speechless!
Posted by: Torre at May 18, 2011 9:45 PMWow! Congratulations!
Posted by: Helen Anderson at May 18, 2011 9:53 PMAbsolutely stunning, Stephanie. I wish I had a pinky's worth of your talent and ingenuity.
Posted by: Erika at May 18, 2011 9:54 PMPlease, please, PLEASE wear it to Rhinebeck this fall, so we can all see it, and appreciate it!!
Posted by: Amarula at May 18, 2011 9:55 PMIt's absolutely gorgeous, don't you know!!
Posted by: Amy S. at May 18, 2011 9:55 PMSoft and strong as a dandelion in the wind. Nothing
like complete creative control and mastery from beginning to end. Enjoy your clever self, until your next brilliant idea strikes. It's OK to say it out loud, I made this and it's beautiful! I sure would!
Eve from Carlisle
Posted by: Eve Linn at May 18, 2011 9:59 PMBeautiful. I love it when creative people do things like this. Truly inspiring!
Posted by: GinaJ at May 18, 2011 10:10 PMBeautiful...
Posted by: Donna at May 18, 2011 10:11 PMWOW! It's absolutely gorgeous!
Posted by: Kelle in New Orleans at May 18, 2011 10:21 PMAs you should!
Posted by: Diane at May 18, 2011 10:24 PMFunny that you mention "wingspan" in your post. I was thinking of a bird in flight as I was looking at your photos.
This is truly one of the loveliest handmade items I've ever seen, and made even more so because it started as an idea that you brought to fruition so succinctly and beautifully. Well done.
Stephanie, I actually gasped out loud when I scrolled down to the first full picture of the shawl. So incredibly gorgeous. Well done.
Posted by: Holly at May 18, 2011 10:37 PMGorgeosity incarnate. I should think you would feel clever. It must be wonderful to have something turn out exactly the way you pictured it in your head.
Posted by: barbinvic at May 18, 2011 10:51 PMGiven that wool, and the gorgeous thing you did with it, I wonder why the sheep doesn't manage to 'wear it' in the same beautifully graduated stripes.
Posted by: Cath at May 18, 2011 10:52 PMWow, that shawl is phenomenal. It reminds me - in an impressionist sort of way - of watching a bald eagle soaring overhead - the white top and the dark "frilled" edge. Just amazing.
Posted by: Shawnna at May 18, 2011 10:59 PMGobsmackingly gorgeous!
Posted by: CattyB at May 18, 2011 11:06 PMThat is breathtakingly beautiful. I am in awe.
Posted by: Heather at May 18, 2011 11:25 PMIn a word-------STUNNING!
Posted by: ruthie at May 18, 2011 11:37 PMThat is just fabulous. Really just a lovely shawl- thanks for posting the progression pics!
Posted by: Jaimee at May 18, 2011 11:39 PMWhat a beautiful shawl!!
Posted by: Gloria at May 19, 2011 12:07 AMI don't know how to spin. I barely know how to knit. I'm pretty good at crochet. I like to "pet" soft yarn, but I'm not "into" yarn so much...But this takes my breath away!
Posted by: AnnieR at May 19, 2011 12:10 AMI'm a longtime lurker on your blog, and never thought I'd ever comment, but the absolute beauty and wonder of this shawl requires acknowledgement. I have been going through a knitting doldrum of late, but this shawl is reinvigorating my desire to make pretty things out of sticks and string. Well done, and thank you for sharing!
Absolutely gorgeous!!
Posted by: Jaeleen at May 19, 2011 12:23 AMJust Lovely.
Enjoy your time in Washington.
Absolutely lovely, and nothing like that feeling when the item you've made looks exactly as you have imagined, feels wonderful, and inspires others.
Well done!
Posted by: Connie at May 19, 2011 12:32 AMNothing left to add after all those comments summed up my reaction. But congratulations on an impressive accomplishment, from start to finish!
And so fast!!!
OhMyBob.... It's stunning. Absolutely marvelous.
Posted by: Kiltman at May 19, 2011 1:06 AMSo very beautiful! Thank you for the inspiration!
Posted by: Lene at May 19, 2011 1:11 AMI believe that is what one calls "heirloom" knitting. Something worthy of passing down from generation to generation. Absolutely lovely!
Posted by: Marsha at May 19, 2011 1:22 AMIt has been an honor and a privilege to watch the progress of your lovely shawl. It truly is amazing, and speaks volumes about your love of knitting and fiber and creation. Awesome. Thank you so much for sharing!
Posted by: Maureen M. at May 19, 2011 1:36 AMAbsolutely stunning! It's highly accomplished artistry when you start with an idea and use highly developed skills to make it a reality.
Posted by: Margaret at May 19, 2011 2:16 AMGorgeous!
Posted by: peony67 at May 19, 2011 2:22 AMIt's not so often that i comment, but your shawl is absolutely gorgeous. You have a right to feel satisfied and wear a smug-face until Monday. I would.
Posted by: liz at May 19, 2011 3:52 AMWow!
I'm seriously awestruck (again) with your abillity to make a yarn to fit a certain project. And fit it does, down to a tee. Just like the february lady all that time ago. Hope to learn a bit of that fine art, in due time.
I love that that beautiful shawl began as an idea in your head and turned out just as wonderfully as you imagined it would be.
Posted by: Linda at May 19, 2011 4:30 AMthat is just so beautiful! i love undyed yarn in natural colours and once i'm better at spinning, i want to try something like this myself! thanks for being an inspiration - and indeed, for everything you do. i love reading your blog.
love from vienna!
Posted by: glitterhippo at May 19, 2011 4:42 AMThis is so lovely. I suddenly want to learn to spin. Where can I fit roving amongst all this mess.....
Posted by: Harpy at May 19, 2011 5:11 AMMy mouth literally fell open when I saw the completed shawl. Absolutely amazing.
Posted by: Juliet at May 19, 2011 5:26 AMThe word "heirloom" is the first that springs to mind, like many other commenters have probably said... Also, it illustrates so beautifully what a Jacob fleece is (and I had never heard of those before!). All those colours from a single sheep! A lovely idea, executed wonderfully (and skilfully).
Posted by: Anja at May 19, 2011 6:17 AMLovely. And pretty amazing, when you stop to think about it. That beautiful shawl was once a SHEEP. How can that be anything other than magic?
Posted by: Colleen at May 19, 2011 6:27 AMThis is so stunning that I called my husband and son over to admire your amazing work. They asked if you're going to start raising your own sheep now. ;0)
Posted by: Diana Martin at May 19, 2011 6:52 AMThat is absolutely mind-blowingly gorgeous. I'm in awe of your spinning and knitting skills. It's beautiful!
Posted by: Dawnmaire at May 19, 2011 6:57 AMGorgeous! Have your girls put it on their "I inherit that" list?
Posted by: Jane George at May 19, 2011 7:26 AM>I feel really, really clever and happy.
And so you should do! You should go up to people and say "See this? I made it out of fluff!"
Posted by: Liz A. at May 19, 2011 7:45 AMMazal tov!! Congratulations!! It is beautiful, and embodies everything I love about making stuff using the original technology. All my archaeological training and instincts get up and shout when they see this, not to mention my aesthetic and craftsmanship ones. Maybe I will actually wash that stashed fleece this summer, finally drag someone over here to teach me how to spin on a wheel (I'd never finish with just the drop spindle), and knit something -- with your inspiration in front of me, it actually seems possible!
Extraordinary!
Posted by: Lisa at May 19, 2011 8:15 AMIn a word - exquisite! Simply wonderful, You are a knitting genius :-)
Posted by: Perpetua at May 19, 2011 8:29 AMStunning!
Posted by: Lisa H. at May 19, 2011 8:34 AMYou have now earned all the positive knitting/spinning karma you will ever need to combat any possible knitting/spinning dilemma that you may ever encounter.
This means that swatches won't lie to you any more, just to the rest of us.
If it turns out I am wrong you will still have an awesome shawl...
Posted by: Karen Lauterwasser at May 19, 2011 8:36 AMsuper awesome
Posted by: Lorilee at May 19, 2011 8:38 AMSimply Gorgeous!
Posted by: Lulynn at May 19, 2011 8:49 AMIt is lovely. Absolutely perfect.
Posted by: chryse at May 19, 2011 8:55 AMWhat an accomplishment. Kudos to you Stephanie. And - wow - is that Jacob white! Beautiful gorgeous shawl. I can only get the creamy from my Jacobs. One day, tho, I might get a baby with some whiteness. :D
Posted by: Daniele at May 19, 2011 9:26 AMSo gorgeous. You do such beautiful work and you're an inspiration to us all.
Posted by: Ann at May 19, 2011 9:29 AMThat is also why I learned to spin, although I haven't "graduated" to spinning for a shawl yet. Beautiful work, Stephanie!
Posted by: Dana at May 19, 2011 9:32 AMWOW! That is so beautiful. Every time I start to think I would like to knit a lace shawl I get a vision of that time you posted a picture of some lady's shawl that she had all pinned down trying to go back and fix a mistake. Remember that? YIKES! My daughter always brings me off of the ceiling by saying, Life Line Mom, you have to use a life line.
Posted by: SUZ at May 19, 2011 9:33 AMDrop dead gorgeous!
Posted by: Maggie at May 19, 2011 9:35 AMYou truly are a marvel.
Posted by: karin at May 19, 2011 9:38 AMYou should clever and very happy! It is beautiful. Enjoy!!
Posted by: Tina at May 19, 2011 9:39 AMIt's beautiful--it reminds me of a moth. What a work of art!
Posted by: Jennifer at May 19, 2011 9:44 AMIt's beautiful! I'm so glad it turned out how you imagined it would. It's so great when that happens!
Posted by: Jen G at May 19, 2011 9:59 AMThe shawl is beautiful. The story is priceless. Thanks!
Posted by: Carol at May 19, 2011 10:12 AMI'd say you deserve to take another victory lap with this one, Stephanie. Let your Freakin' awesome shawl fly high!
Posted by: nance at May 19, 2011 10:32 AMYour too brilliant and clever for words
Posted by: Christian Stoll-Dreeszen at May 19, 2011 10:39 AMWow! That is awesome! I am almost ready to start my first lace shawl project (not with self-spun yarn, however). I really enjoy your blog; thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Dari at May 19, 2011 10:57 AMYou go, Grrrl. It's beautiful. You are right to be pleased, and proud.
Posted by: LynnH at May 19, 2011 11:07 AMThat is the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen! I absolutely love it.
Posted by: Janene at May 19, 2011 11:11 AMI keep telling myself that learning to spin is just one more thing & not to do it (I reason that can't afford ($ or space) to add roving to my stash of fabric & yarn). Just don't do it, my brain says, then you post something like this shawl, & my resolve falters. The fact that you spun & knit that gorgeous shawl just makes me wish you lived nearby so I could touch it! ..maybe I could touch you & some of your knitting genius could rub off on me.
Posted by: Grayson at May 19, 2011 11:15 AMWell worth the drive for blocking pins. Beautiful!
Posted by: Duffy at May 19, 2011 11:17 AMWow. That did turn out lovely! I'm just starting the whole Spinning Adventure now, but someday... someday, I will be unafraid to face a fleece!
Posted by: CraftyGryphon at May 19, 2011 11:18 AMGood lord! Breathtaking. To make something like that totally and completely from scratch is amazing!
Posted by: Shelley "MissKnitz" Gilbertson at May 19, 2011 11:23 AMWow! The only way that could've been more your own project is if you'd raised the sheep yourself. Maybe that's the next step?
Posted by: Lisle at May 19, 2011 11:29 AMOh, BRAVO!!! It's beautiful.
Posted by: Cindy at May 19, 2011 11:31 AMI know, I know; you DON'T do it all, but that fact that you did it ALL on this shawl - from sheep to shawl - in such a short time with all the other stuff you have on your plate, blows me away! It's gorgeous wear it with pride (would love to see it on you at SS11!).
Posted by: Michelle at May 19, 2011 11:39 AMAbsolutely gorgeous!
Posted by: Kelly at May 19, 2011 11:42 AMWOW. That is simply stunning. I look at a lot of shawls every day, but this one stands out from most others. It really is ... Well, I can't even find the words for how beautiful it is! The colors, the pattern ... Wow.
I hope you shared a picture with the pattern designer. It would be so cool to create something and see such a stunning rendition of it.
You should be quite pleased with yourself! I know I would be!
Posted by: Lori at May 19, 2011 11:44 AMBeAuTiFuL shawl...LOVE IT!!!!
Posted by: Tricia at May 19, 2011 11:59 AMThe shawl is absolutely beautiful, and I admire you for making it from the fleece up. Something to be proud of for sure!
Posted by: Alix in MV at May 19, 2011 12:03 PMIt's gorgeous. I have a question, though. When you look at the ones on Ravelry, some are LACY and some are moderately lacy and some are hardly lacy at all. Why is that - is it a gauge thing? It's kind of amazing how one pattern can look so different when made by lots of different people.
Posted by: Cathy at May 19, 2011 12:07 PMThis just makes me vicariously happy. Congratulations on a perfect project!
Posted by: lsb at May 19, 2011 12:09 PMStunning. Absolutely stunning. Good job!
Posted by: lizykat at May 19, 2011 12:17 PMWow. It's breathtaking. It looks really, really warm, too. Sigh.
Posted by: Ten Words at May 19, 2011 12:49 PMWOW - that is ALL kinds of gorgeous!!
Posted by: Annie at May 19, 2011 12:53 PMAbsolutely breathtaking. You are a SuperHero.
Posted by: Kim at May 19, 2011 12:58 PMYou are amazing and an inspiration!
Just perfect, all around. I definitely got the color scheme you were aiming for, but couldn't quite see the pattern. Seeing the two together, now, is really special.
Every now and then, it does work out exactly as we want it to. :)
Posted by: Voie de Vie at May 19, 2011 1:05 PMIt's gorgeous!
Posted by: Lindsey at May 19, 2011 1:07 PMOMG! You have a fantastic vision and eye for design.
Posted by: Amy at May 19, 2011 1:12 PMWOW just doesn't seem to sum it up. How beautiful!
Posted by: FoFo at May 19, 2011 1:28 PMOh. This is magnificent. What a beautiful shawl - I love the start to finish project and am so impressed. This makes me want to start spinning. But, perhaps I should start lace first!
Posted by: Missy at May 19, 2011 1:40 PMLOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE!! That is one gorgeous shawl and may actually be enough to draw me into the evils of shawl knitting... Love it. Did I mention that? :)
Posted by: Glenda at May 19, 2011 1:50 PMLook at all those responses! We love it!
Posted by: Louise at May 19, 2011 1:54 PMLove it. The color changes are beautiful.
Posted by: Helen at May 19, 2011 2:11 PMOMG that is amazing - the flow of colors, perfect for the design, and really going from sheep to shawl is just mind boggling. Thanks for the recap on the process. Now, how am I ever going to get my brain back to work when it is frantically juggling color ideas?
Posted by: fibersong at May 19, 2011 2:22 PMI usually don't comment, but I feel like I need to on this post. I absolutely love how you can have an idea in your head and the end result is just what you imagined. Also to take raw materials and be able to create a gorgeous shawl...awesome! This makes me want to try to spin again. I got so frustrated when it was just me, my drop spindle, and online videos to try and learn. I put it down and haven't tried since. Maybe today will be the day?!
Posted by: Jamie at May 19, 2011 2:24 PMI love that; have I said that already? I just washed a Jacob lamb fleece yesterday; if it ever stops raining here, it'll dry and I can spin and knit my own Jacob shawl (but not Damask; I love that pattern, but I have something else in mind).
Posted by: Lynn at May 19, 2011 3:36 PMBravo! It's absolutely beautiful!
Posted by: Diane P at May 19, 2011 3:42 PMAwesome! Beautiful shawl. Beautiful! I hoped it would be just perfect and it is. :)
Your shawl truly is perfect. So lovely!
Posted by: Jo at May 19, 2011 3:55 PMOh, well done you! I love the pairing of the pattern & the yarn, and the way you chose to work the color shifts really adds to the overall project. It's truly beautiful. Again, well done.
Posted by: Vismajor at May 19, 2011 3:58 PM"Kitman Figueroa, who has nothing wrong with her brain at all" - THAT's going on a resume...
Posted by: Mathilde at May 19, 2011 4:22 PMI gasped, literally gasped out loud, when I scrolled down the page and reached the shot of the shawl in all its glory. Stunning, gorgeous and, yes, very, very clever.
Posted by: Cara at May 19, 2011 4:38 PMYou should feel clever. That is an awesome shawl with the colour graduations. You inspire me!!
Posted by: anita at May 19, 2011 4:39 PMIts absolutely stunning!
Posted by: Buggyknits at May 19, 2011 5:16 PMNow THAT'S what Jacob sheep are all about. What a great result!
Posted by: Evalyn at May 19, 2011 5:18 PMWow! Lovely!
Posted by: Su at May 19, 2011 5:24 PMvery very wonderful. congratulations.
Posted by: jacey at May 19, 2011 5:34 PMIt's time to try and say something original fo r a change.. How about ...oh wow...oh wow....oh my....oh wow and ditto everybody who came before me?! That is definitely to die for. Oh wow...
Posted by: KarenJ at May 19, 2011 5:49 PMQuestions for the Harlot!
1. What were the wraps per inch?
2. How many yards did you get from the spin?
3. Gauge?
I also want to spin for such a shawl. My Kromski Polonaise is up to the task and I may soon have a poly pay fleece that will meet it's destiny!
bjr
Posted by: Barb Rickman at May 19, 2011 6:37 PMGorgeous!
Posted by: Jess at May 19, 2011 6:49 PMI love that you have that, "I Made This" excitement. It is truly cool and amazing that you really did make that; from sheep to shawl. It is lovely. Wear it in good health!
Posted by: stephanie at May 19, 2011 7:30 PMTotally wonderful!!
Conception; Nurturing; Birthing; Revel in the warmth of your labor!
Posted by: Mary Kay at May 19, 2011 7:50 PMThere should be an Oscar for knitting. This incredibly gorgeous shawl would win hands down. Truly an heirloom piece. Your daughters will cherish it.
Posted by: Donna Cooper at May 19, 2011 7:56 PMYour words and your pictures clearly convey your sense of accomplishment, fabulous work! It is wonderful of you to share this with all of us so we can share this feeling with you.
Posted by: Kristi Paul at May 19, 2011 8:03 PMbreathtaking!
Posted by: t abell at May 19, 2011 8:08 PMJust lovely!
Posted by: SallyT at May 19, 2011 8:30 PMBeautiful! Amazing, really.
Posted by: Allison Romano at May 19, 2011 8:53 PMSimply outstanding.
Posted by: Rachel H at May 19, 2011 9:03 PMNow that is simply beautiful.
Posted by: The Captain at May 19, 2011 9:21 PMIt is breathtakingly beautiful.
Posted by: Misty at May 19, 2011 9:45 PMWhat a magnificent piece! The Jacob would be proud to know he or she gave 3 bags full into your capable hands.
Posted by: Tora at May 19, 2011 9:47 PMIt is so beautiful. Glad it worked out just like you planned. :)
Posted by: Debbie Palmer at May 19, 2011 9:55 PMAbsolutely gorgeous. Just had to comment on your tweet about paying for health care for the first time ever. Actually, I'm sure your taxes go towards your health care. You just don't pay at the clinic like we do. Sure wish we had your plan...
Posted by: Judy at May 19, 2011 10:47 PMIt is a true work of art - I love it! What a feeling it must be to conceive a project and be responsible for each and every step. Next thing, you'll be raising your own sheep so you can start at the very beginning. Job well done!!!
Posted by: Dixie at May 19, 2011 11:10 PMThis might be the loveliest piece you've ever created. It's absolutely awesome & beautiful! BTW, it would take me a whole year or more to accomplish such a project.
Posted by: scotty at May 19, 2011 11:59 PMI loved knitting this pattern myself, but I really love your tonal interpretation of it. Makes me think I'll knit it again differently.
Posted by: Melissa at May 20, 2011 1:27 AMThat's flat out gorgeous.
Posted by: Lynette at May 20, 2011 1:51 AMAbsolutely fabulous :) I wish i could spin and knit like you. My spinning is terrible! Yours is wondrous
Posted by: Akitombo at May 20, 2011 2:39 AMStunning! Such thought and love went into this project and it shows - enjoy it forever and thanks for the inspiration from start to finish!
Posted by: Vanessa at May 20, 2011 7:12 AMLet me add my voice to the chorus: Beautiful!,,
Posted by: Pattie at May 20, 2011 7:19 AMWow! This has inspired me to finally get around to washing and carding all the raw fleece I have sitting around here (don't ask how many kilos of it I have o.O) and spend my winter spinning and knitting it :) The shawl is stunning, I'm a fan of Kitman Figueroa's patterns too. And I agree with everyone else who said you should feel very clever - it's so satisfying making something as beautiful as that from raw materials, isn't it?
Posted by: Daniel at May 20, 2011 7:50 AMThis is just lovely! It ALMOST makes me want to spin. I am slowly backing away from the computer...
Posted by: Caty at May 20, 2011 8:11 AMThat shawl's color combo would look perfect on me. How many thousands are you asking?
Posted by: chloe at May 20, 2011 9:33 AMThis reminds me of the shades of grey skirt that you made...I just favored it on Ravelry. It's beyond gorgeous. And this shawl is so similar in coloring! Congrats.
Posted by: MB@YarnUiPhoneApp at May 20, 2011 9:39 AMBeautiful. Simply beautiful.
Posted by: Angelia Batson at May 20, 2011 9:58 AMAbsolutely beautiful! And the story of the shawl's creation is truly inspiring.
Posted by: Elisabeth at May 20, 2011 10:21 AMI'm late to the party, but no snark here. Love it.
Posted by: Presbytera at May 20, 2011 10:45 AMAbsolutely stunning.
Posted by: Jae at May 20, 2011 12:36 PMLove the shawl. The colors are really beautiful. GREAT JOB!! Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Rowena at May 20, 2011 12:42 PMThe shawl is absolutely stunning. What beautiful work, from beginning to end.
Posted by: sunshine at May 20, 2011 12:58 PMIt is gorgeous!
Posted by: Liz at May 20, 2011 1:02 PMReally extraordinary! Well done, you!
Posted by: Elizabeth L in Apex, NC at May 20, 2011 1:15 PMBeautiful shawl! You should be amazed at yourself to have done the whole thing yourself, well, except for actually growing the wool... the wonderful sheep gets the credit for that!
Posted by: Lydia at May 20, 2011 2:37 PMOh My....that is BEAUTIFUL!!!!!I just love reading your posts... besides always learning something new, I get such a chuckle. It's good to know that someone else tries "knitting faster" when the yarn is running out. It's like driving faster when the gas gauge is on empty.I've been following the shawl since you brought home the wool.What a treat for us to watch the whole project from start to finish. Thank you!
Posted by: Cathy Gurr at May 20, 2011 3:10 PMShawl is simply lovely, cozy looking yet elegant. What is a lilac fleece?
Posted by: Dar at May 20, 2011 3:24 PMPerfect.
Posted by: AlisonH at May 20, 2011 4:19 PMThis is so bloody gorgeous it makes my heart ache with longing.
Posted by: roggey at May 20, 2011 4:21 PMThere are days when I think you're crazy, other days when I know you're crazy but this time honey, you're crazy like a FOX. What an absolutely STUNNING project!!!
Posted by: Sharon in Surrey at May 20, 2011 4:42 PMAt last! We get to see that gorgeous shawl!
Posted by: Pat Fell at May 20, 2011 4:46 PMLike anytone really believes you bought nothing other than pins in a wool shop???
Ha!
I have been made speechless by the beauty of that shawl and knowing how it came to be. Congratulations.
Posted by: Anne at May 20, 2011 6:07 PMYou're right. It's perfect.
Posted by: Claire at May 20, 2011 6:43 PMHi, your tweet from about 1 hour ago is just what I was thinking about! I was sitting on the plane knitting, and thinking, wouldn't it be nice if Stephanie were traveling back home and sitting here and we could discuss knitting together!! Someone else got the pleasure. I understand you just want to be a private person sometimes. Your happiness with the wonderful shawl is infectious!
Posted by: Beth at May 20, 2011 8:55 PMLovely!
Posted by: thecrazysheeplady at May 20, 2011 10:21 PMStunning! A work of art...
Posted by: nmJewel at May 21, 2011 2:09 AMAmazing!
Posted by: Terry at May 21, 2011 7:42 AMOh my stars. If I ever made something that beautiful, it would have to go everywhere with me so I could pet it and admire it and murmur sweet nothings to it from time to time. Simply lovely.
Posted by: Steph B at May 21, 2011 9:02 AMAre you okay? Haven't heard anything in awhile. Althought I can't say much as I post when I can on my blog as well. I do hope you are okay though.
Posted by: Liz at May 21, 2011 11:39 AMEthereal. It seems like wings, real feathery wings. Strong and light. Bravo you. Stunning.
Posted by: cecelia at May 21, 2011 1:11 PMJust FYI in the first line of the post you've written "Jabob" instead of "Jacob" :-)
Posted by: atomicfunk07 at May 21, 2011 4:30 PMWow. That is truly beautiful..
Posted by: Lynn at May 21, 2011 8:25 PMUnbelievably beautiful and with such a backstory! I can only aspire to ever look at photos of such loveliness.
Posted by: Mindy at May 21, 2011 10:52 PMLike several other commenters, I'm de-lurking to join the chorus of very well-deserved praise and appluse. That sheep would indeed be proud to have given you the fleece off his back.
Posted by: Felicity from Down Under at May 22, 2011 3:08 AMvery very wonderful. congratulations.
Posted by: sergejs at May 22, 2011 4:01 AMJust gorgeous !!! and I'm sure the pictures don't do it justice.....
Posted by: Mary Ellen at May 22, 2011 5:43 PMBeautiful!
Posted by: Jane Jorgensen at May 22, 2011 8:59 PMAbsolutely incredibly stunning! You awe me girl with your talent. :)
Posted by: Janelle at May 22, 2011 9:47 PMI don't know how anything could be more beautiful. Gorgeous!
Posted by: Betsy at May 22, 2011 10:25 PMAnd so you are, little missy! Because of your project, I almost bought a Jacob fleece this weekend at the KY Sheep and Fiber Festival. But I'd been given a freshly shorn (like 10 minutes before) Polypay fleece (4lbs) the day before and I thought that deserved all my attention! (Almost fell for a Cormo fleece, too, but escaped by the skin of my teeth.)
Posted by: Dianna at May 23, 2011 3:27 PMWhen I finally saw the finished shawl, I "had" to show my husband. I showed him all the pictures from fleece to the finished piece and even he, who has not much of a clue about wool and knitting, was mightily impressed. I...am basically speechless at the beauty that is the Jacob Damask. Sigh...someday
Posted by: patti from KY at May 23, 2011 3:33 PMOh my, that is just gorgeous! Congratulations on a very wonderful accomplishment!
Posted by: Brooketopia at May 23, 2011 5:13 PMWow! What a beautiful shawl. Definitely worth all the work. Congrats.
Posted by: Nancy at May 24, 2011 7:19 AMThat is so lovely!
You should feel clever and happy!
Even for process knitters, it's so wonderful when knitting just turns out right.
We were talking about your shawl Monday night at our Spin Night!!! Seems I am not the only one in our area that reads your post!
Posted by: cynthia at May 24, 2011 8:10 PMBeautiful! Amazing! Beyond amazing! Possibly your best work ever ( after your children ).
Posted by: KathyRo at May 24, 2011 8:45 PMthat yarn and shawl is shockingly beautiful. makes me want to learn to spin!
Posted by: salena at May 24, 2011 9:09 PMthe wool, how you spun it, the pattern, the skill--all resulted in an amazing and beautiful result. Congratulations!
Posted by: sue b at May 24, 2011 9:47 PMWow, that's really beautiful!
Posted by: Constance at May 24, 2011 10:45 PMThe prettiest, most delicate shawl I have seen in a long time. Stunning. Congratulations.
Posted by: Jenny near London (UK) at May 25, 2011 12:58 PMLoved watching this progress! I am sure you also had your photo-op in mind as it all came together beautifully!
You are my spinning/knitting Goddess!!!
Posted by: Rhonda at May 25, 2011 1:31 PMThat is the most perfect thing ! What a wonderful feeling of achievement you must have :)
Posted by: Annie at May 25, 2011 2:13 PMIt's even prettier than advertised. Bravo!
Posted by: JL at May 25, 2011 3:08 PMYou've disappeared again. We miss you!!!!
Posted by: marilyn at May 25, 2011 7:23 PMin awe, in awe, that's all I have...
Posted by: Nilda at May 25, 2011 8:47 PMHope you are doing well. You keep talking about MRI's and doctor's appointments and I'm about to get worried... I know it's none of my business, I hope you don't think I'm being nosey. The Blog just luvs you is all :)
Posted by: Mary at May 26, 2011 12:11 AMI have a blog addiction and I will admit it. I need to focus on many other things, but the first thing every morning I check to see if you've posted. Then, if you haven't posted, I check back several times a day. Sick behavior. Then when you don't post I have to fill my blog reading addiction with blog surfing. It's an enjoyable pastime but dangerous. I'm always looking for the post that will satisfy. It reminds me of Brenda Dayne, who used to say she was my knit sib...but clearly she's not because she quit podcasting, leaving me in the lurch. I've found one nice replacement, but nothing is Brenda. I read a lot of knitting blogs, but you are the rock. So I hope you are ok and your life is good. I know everybody has tough times and I hope to goodness that is not why you are so quiet. You are amazing and have a really good influence on a lot of lives. Take care!!
Posted by: Marsha at May 26, 2011 12:22 AMPraying you are ok and just taking a blog break because of all the busyness in your life.
Posted by: Diane at May 26, 2011 8:53 AMWow!!! This is absolutely, incredibly, utterly amazing. Just unbelievably gorgeous. So glad I happened by - read about the Jacob's fleece a while back and now, to see it crafted into sheer lovelyness, well, now, that was a treat indeed!
Posted by: Michelle at May 27, 2011 1:52 PMIt's gorgeous!!! You are very clever, and it is very beautiful. So glad it turned out exactly as you'd hoped!
Posted by: ashpags at May 27, 2011 8:43 PMIt is absolutely stunning!!!!!
Posted by: Katrin at May 28, 2011 7:47 AMThis (physically) took my breath away. Thank you for us beauty. It made my week.
Posted by: Simone at May 29, 2011 12:06 AMWonderful, Truly.
Posted by: Kelle at May 29, 2011 12:08 PMSWOON!
Posted by: rachelle at June 1, 2011 1:36 PM