The Biedermier period in Germany was concurrent with Regency/Georgian in England and Empire in France. A hallmark of this elegant style was a convergence of lines that created naturalistic ornamentation. By working several rows of simple decorative chain embroidery around the edges and along the fronts and collar of this cape, the knitter can mimic the same effect.

Even if one has never used a crochet hook, this technique can be mastered quickly. Even better, the vines can easily be ripped out and re-crocheted. The colorwork flowers provide anchoring points to make the embroidery repetition easier to work in a measured fashion. This capelet is designed to fit the shoulders and to easily drape down to the elbows. The refined cut of this garment allows full movement while retaining subtle elegance as well as comfortable warmth.

Finished Size: 40¾ (48¼, 55½, 59¼, 62¾)" circumference at lower edge, 14½ (14½, 17, 17, 17)" circumference at neck, and 18 (19¾, 22½, 23¾, 26)" long at center back. Stole shown measures 48¼".

Yarn: Lorna's Laces Lion & Lamb (50% wool, 50% silk; 205 yd [187 m] /3½ oz [100 g]): chino (tan; MC), 3 (3, 4, 5, 6) balls; Irving Park (red variegated; CC1) and envy (green variegated; CC2), 1 ball each.

Needles: Size 7 (4.5 mm) and size 6 (4 mm): 32'' circular (cir). Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Notions: Smooth waste yarn for provisional CO; markers (m; 1 green, 1 blue); removable markers; stitch holders; tapestry needle; size G/6 (4 mm) crochet hook.

Gauge: 20 sts and 27 rows = 4" in St st on larger needle; 24 sts and 30 rows = 4" in St st on smaller needle.

Originally Published: Jane Austen Knits Fall 2012