Broomstick Lace Neck Warmer

Confession time: I’m so surprised I made it through this pattern at all. I picked it because I thought it was pretty and the stitch looked unique. I started out the first few rows okay, but then I got to the part where it said “stretch loop on hook and place on broomstick.” My brain responded, “You want me to do what?” I read through it a few more times, and still didn’t get it. Then I looked up at notions, because it was obvious I was missing something: a broomstick needle.

I had never even heard of a broomstick needle! So, I looked it up on Google. It turns out the technique is called broomstick lace...and it’s exactly what it sounds like. You use a broomstick (traditionally) to make lacy fabric items. Modern day broomstick lace can be done using a wooden dowel or a giant knitting needle, but I was too lazy to go to the store and opted for the traditional route: I grabbed my actual broomstick and unscrewed the brush part. And after that I was good to go. The pattern itself works up pretty quickly and the addition of the broomstick was a fun twist.

In-progress photo of the broomstick lace technique.

I want to take a little time to talk about the yarn. This yarn was something I picked up because it was pretty, reasonably priced, and MACHINE-WASHABLE!!! This is something I always look for because I hate making things for people that are complicated to wash. Side note: Yes, I consider hand-washing to be complicated. One or two small items are fine, but the time can really add up, and not everyone has the space to let things dry flat. I certainly don’t. This yarn was very easy to work with. It gets a little fluffy - I think because there was a slight snag on the end of my broomstick - but not enough to make me love the finished project any less. Despite all the holes, the neck warmer is still very sturdy and thick (since it’s folded over). I expect this would still keep you warm in the winter. Adding this to my stash for Christmas presents.

Pattern: Broomstick Neck Warmer Buff

Designer: Faye Lamb

Yarn: Loops & Threads

Time: 5.75 hrs

Note: I wouldn’t recommend this pattern for beginners, but I won’t discourage any of you from trying. The best way to learn is to try and fail, then try again. If you’re new to crochet, I suggest getting a few other projects under your belt first, then try it out. Red Heart’s guide to Broomstick Lace really helped me figure it out. :)