Fairfax Reticule

In researching Regency textiles, Anne ran across a lovely little reticule (dated 1801–1836) from the Museum of London that inspired the textured lace version in this piece. She adapted a unique twisted-rib lace edging from the old Anchor manual as the main motif because it has a certain swirly depth and elegance that reminds her of the hollyhock blossoms in Fairfax, Virginia, where she was born.

Materials

• Yarn: Presencia Finca #5 Perle Cotton (100% cotton; 242 yd [221 m]/1¾ oz [50 g]): #3000 ecru, 1 skein.

• Needles: Size 3 (3.25 mm): 16 "circular (cir) needle and set of 4 double-pointed (dpn). Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

• Notions: Markers (m); tapestry needle; sharp-point sewing needle and thread to match yarn; 7½" diameter circle of lining fabric with finished edges; 22" by 6" rectangle of lining fabric with finished edges (shade is your choice, plum shown here); standard size pack of playing cards for tassel template.

Finished Size: About 21" circumference at opening and 7" tall, not including tassel. Gauge: 6½ sts and 10 rnds = 1" in chart patt, after blocking.

Originally published in Jane Austen Knits 2013.