Crocheting a shawl is a satisfying and beginner-friendly project that’s perfect for building your confidence and skill. A shawl can be cozy, stylish, and a wonderful handmade gift. This guide will walk you through creating a beautiful triangular women’s shawl using basic crochet stitches—even if you’re brand new to crochet!
🧵 What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
🪡 Materials:
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (medium #4); approx. 600–800 yards
- Acrylic or wool blends are great for beginners
- Crochet Hook: Size H/8 (5.0 mm) or I/9 (5.5 mm)
- Scissors
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends
- Stitch Markers (optional but helpful for beginners)
🧩 Pattern Overview
This is a basic triangle shawl, which is made by working from the center top outward, increasing on each side and at the center to form a triangle.
✨ Stitches Used:
- Chain (ch)
- Double Crochet (dc)
If you’re not familiar with these stitches, don’t worry! They’re among the first you’ll learn and are very beginner-friendly.
📝 Easy Triangle Shawl Pattern Instructions
🌟 Row-by-Row Tutorial:
Step 1: Start with the Foundation
Ch 4, dc in the first chain to form a ring.
This creates a small ring that serves as the center top of your shawl.
Step 2: Row 1
Ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc in the ring, ch 2, 3 dc in the ring. Turn.
✅ You now have a small triangle forming.
Step 3: Row 2
Ch 3, 2 dc in same stitch (increase), dc in each dc until center ch-2 space,
(2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in ch-2 space, dc in each dc to last stitch,
3 dc in top of turning ch. Turn.
Step 4: Repeat Row 2
Repeat this pattern until the shawl reaches your desired size. Typically, 40–60 rows will give you a nice-sized shawl, depending on the yarn and hook.
Each row adds more width to your triangle and builds the shape outward.
🌈 Customizing Your Shawl
- Color Changes: Add stripes or color blocks using different yarn colors.
- Borders: Once finished, add a simple scalloped or picot edge for flair.
- Tassels or Fringe: Attach tassels at the triangle points for a boho look.
🧺 Finishing Your Shawl
- Fasten Off: Once you’ve reached your desired size, cut the yarn, and pull through the last loop.
- Weave in Ends: Use a tapestry needle to hide yarn tails in the stitches.
- Block (Optional): Lightly wet and pin your shawl to shape it evenly, especially if using natural fibers.
📌 Tips for Beginners
- Use Light-Colored Yarn: Easier to see your stitches.
- Count Stitches Often: Especially around the center and edges to ensure your triangle grows symmetrically.
- Practice First: Try a few rows on scrap yarn if you’re new to the double crochet stitch.
- Watch Video Tutorials: Visual learners benefit greatly from watching a shawl tutorial in real time.
📷 Bonus: Try This Simple One-Skein Shawl Variation
If you’re short on time or yarn, try a one-skein version using a larger hook (like a 6.5 mm) and lightweight yarn. Follow the same pattern, but stop once you run out of yarn for a cute mini shawlette or kerchief.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Crocheting your first shawl is not just a rewarding craft—it’s a cozy, wearable hug made by you! With just a few stitches and a little patience, you can create a beautiful accessory that showcases your style and creativity.
Video tutorial:
