Ard Rí Crochet Kit | Townhouse Yarns

To celebrate 20 years of This is Knit, we’re bringing back some of our most loved designs as special Gift Box Editions.

Ard Rí, meaning High King in Irish, is one of those favourites. Inspired by Irish storytelling, design and yarn, this anniversary kit celebrates the creativity that has shaped our community over the years.

Designed by Aoibhe Ní, this striking shawl showcases her signature Tunisian crochet, creating a piece full of texture, structure and rich colour.

A Collaboration Between Two Designers

Ard Rí was created alongside its knitted companion, Ard Banríon – High Queen, designed by Julie Knits in Paris. Together, Aoibhe and Julie set out to design two shawls that celebrate both knitting and crochet — two crafts standing proudly side by side.

Two exclusive Townhouse Yarns shades were created for the project:

• Rosie’s Gold, inspired by Aoibhe Ní’s beloved dog Rosie

• Pure Majesty, inspired by Julie’s favourite colour

Each designer used their own shade as the main colour in their design and the other as contrast, creating two shawls that mirror each other beautifully.

For this special anniversary return, we’ve also introduced a new shade combination in Rosie’s Gold and Cloak, giving this favourite design a fresh twist for our 20-year celebration.

The Design

Ard Rí means High King, a title rooted in Irish history and storytelling. The design reflects that sense of presence and strength, with bold colour placement and rich texture created through Tunisian crochet.

Short rows shape the shawl while adding visual interest, resulting in a piece that feels structured yet fluid — a striking project that truly showcases the beauty of Tunisian crochet.

The Yarn

Ard Rí is worked in Townhouse Yarns Tara 4ply, a luxurious blend that brings beautiful stitch definition and depth of colour to the design.

Each Gift box includes

• Beautifully presented in a This is Knit 20th Anniversary gift box
• 3 skeins of Tara 4ply in main colour
• 1 skein of Tara 4ply in contrast colour
• printed Copy of the Ard Rí pattern.
• A small surprise gift inspired by Irish design and storytelling

Not included:

7mm hook.

Please note kits are exclusively available online.

If you would like to pick up a kit in store then please use our "Click and Collect" option. You will then receive a notification when your kit is assembled and ready to collect.