This wasn't a Christmas present. It's actually a piece I finished almost a year ago and never blogged about. Mostly because I couldn't get a decent pic --- 'cause I was too busy wearing it!
This was a pattern, Ninja Star Shawlette, from the book Seamless Crochet by Kristin Omdahl. This book is genius! No more joining motifs with tons of ends to weave in. These patterns are designed to work back and forth, almost like rows. Plus, she explains HOW it all works so you can designs with your own motifs.
This piece I worked on two evenings after work and then finished on a Saturday afternoon. For me, the process was very intuitive. I'm not sure it's for the beginner, but for anyone who can "read" their crochet stitches, it becomes almost mesmerizing.
The pattern is a triangular shawl and called for fringe. I left off the fringe. The yarn is Rastita by Malabrigo. Such a soft-n-squishy merino.
Love, love, LOVED it!!!