In Norse mythology, Yggdrasil is an immense tree that is central in Norse cosmology; the world tree, and around the tree exist nine worlds. It is generally considered to mean “Ygg‘s (Odin‘s) horse”. ~ Wikipedia
With fall weather soon approaching, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about knitting or crocheting a lap blanket or an afghan for our home or even for Christmas gifts. There’s so many gorgeous patterns available, but today I’m spotlighting the beautiful Tree of Life stitch pattern. The Tree of Life symbol can be found all over the world and in many cultures, all showing a basic correlation between the heavens, the earth and life itself. This symbol has been represented throughout science, religion, philosophy and mythology, as well as in the decorative arts.
Photo courtesy of Interweave Press
Lisa Jacobs has designed a gorgeous tribute to the Tree of Life represented in the Yggdrasil Blanket, a truly stunning heirloom design that is available as a free download on the Knitting Daily website. Click here to download your copy.
Using Lion Brand’s Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton in Pecan, this unique afghan is worked from the center out , beginning with a square panel. Once completed, the borders are worked out from the center, allowing for three sizes in the pattern, a baby blanket, afghan, and large counterpane bedspread. Lisa’s design draws on the myth of the World Tree, depicting a central grove of four trees growing into braided and leaf lace patterned borders, bringing the true Norse meaning of all things interconnected. Please note that is pattern is perfect for a more advanced knitter.
Finished Size: 38 (58, 74)” square. Blanket shown measures 74″ square.
Yarn: Lion Brand Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton (100% organic cotton; 103 yd [94 m]/85 g): #124 pecan, 9 (22, 37) skeins.
Needles: Size 10½ (6.5 mm): 16″, 24″, and two 47″ circulars (cir) and set of double-pointed (dpn).
Photo courtesy of Lion Brand
Lion Brand offers a miniature version of designer Nicky Epstein’s popular Tree of Life Afghan. Measuring 26″ x 34″ (66 x 86.5 cm), including the tulip-bud border, this project requires just 1ball of Pound of Love Yarn, 1 pair of size US 7 straight knitting needles and cable needles. This pattern is perfect for an experienced knitter that is not quite ready to tackle the complexity of Lisa Jacobs design.
Click here to download a free copy of Lion Brand’s Baby Tree of Life.
Photo courtesy of Lion Brand
Also available is the original Tree of Life Afghan designed by Nicky Epstein, as well as a gorgeous crocheted version.
The finished size of the knitted version measures 48″ x 58″ (122 x 147.5 cm) and requires 10 balls of Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Fisherman (or color of choice), 1 pair of US size 8 knitting needles and cable needles. This gorgeous afghan features a tulip-bud border as the finishing touch. This pattern is for a more experienced knitter.
The finished size of the crocheted version measures 44″ x 56″ (112 x 142 cm) and requires 15 balls of Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Fisherman (or color of choice, a US size H (8) hook and a US Size J(10) hook. This version, like it’s knitted counterpart, is for a more experienced fiber artist.
