Gum Leaves

For many the gum leaf symbolises the essence of Australia. It is, without a doubt, Australia’s most significant tree species. 

These true-to-size gum leaves have a myriad of uses beyond the decorative. They make the most beautiful book marks. The double-sided beauties are a super quick and fun knit, with a couple of interesting techniques thrown in. Slipped stitches help to create smooth edges and a midrib. Surface slip stitch finishes this midrib on the other side creating a truly double-sided appearance.

Construction:

These leaves begin with an i-cord stem, before increasing to the garter stitch leaf. Increases, decreases and slipped stitches are used to create and shape a realistic life-sized leaf.

Instructions for two different sizes are included.

Sizing:

Large: Approx. 10 inches/25.5cm long and 2½ inches/6.5cm wide. 

Small: Approx 7½ inches/19cm long and 2 inches/5cm wide.

Skill Level:

Intermediate

Techniques used:

Knit 

Increasing and decreasing 

Working an i-cord 

Slipped stitches 

Surface slip stitch

Yarn Requirements:

* White Gum Wool 8ply (100% ethical superfine merino; 258yd236m/100g) - 1 ball

* OR WOOLganic Organic Merino 8ply/DK (100% organic merino; 113 yd103m/50g – 1 ball.

* OR DK/8ply weight yarn of approximately 25 to 30 yards/23 to 27 metres.

Original yarn is a worsted-spun superfine Australian merino that has a 4 ply structure.

Yardage is approximate and may vary depending on your knitting style and yarn selection.

Sample shown in White Gum Wool Orchid and WOOLganic Gondwana.

Tension:

24 stitches and 48 rows = 4 inches in garter stitch.

Tension isn’t crucial but please note you are knitting considerably tighter than is standard for a 8ply/DK weight yarn. 

Needles and Notions:

* US3/3.25mm crochet hook

* two US3/3.25mm double pointed needles (dpns) (or size required for tension)

* darning needle

* one stitch marker