Updated: by Jess Coppom ·
Welcome to the ultimate collection of free crochet shawl patterns! Whether you're looking for rectangular shawls or lacy triangle wraps, you'll find your next crochet project in this comprehensive guide.
I'll also share some of my favorite tips for beginners, including answers to the most common questions about crocheting shawls.
Choosing the Right Crochet Shawl Pattern
There are many ways to make a beautiful shawl. Crochet shawls can be triangular, rectangular, or even asymmetrical. They can be worked as one piece or assembled from many pieces using various yarn weights.
You have a lot of freedom to choose the shawl pattern that works best for you. No matter your skill level or experience, the right pattern can help you crochet a simple shawl.
Jump to:
- Choosing the Right Crochet Shawl Pattern
- Tips for Beginners
- Free Crochet Patterns for Shawls and Wraps
- How Big Should My Crochet Shawl Be?
- Supplies You'll Need
- Shawl and Wrap Pattern FAQs
- Invitation to our Facebook group
Why You'll Love Crochet Shawl Patterns
- Useful: Creates a gift that your loved ones can wear and enjoy
- Beautiful: Opportunities for gorgeous, intricate patterns and color work
- Meditative: A large enough project to get lost in
Tips for Beginners
Making a shawl as a beginner crocheter can be intimidating, especially if you've never tackled increasing or decreasing. Here are some helpful tips to give you a head start on your first shawl project.
Make a Simple Shape
Rectangle wraps tend to be easier than triangle shawls. When making a rectangle, the number of stitches per row stays consistent. You don't have to decrease or increase, which means you’re less likely to lose count of your stitches.
If you want to tackle a triangular wrap, I recommend choosing a pattern with a simple pattern repeat. The increases and stitch counts will be easier to track if you can memorize the basic pattern.
Choose the Right Yarn Weight
When deciding the best yarn weight for your shawl, think about the purpose of your shawl. Would you like it to keep you warm or function as a cute addition to your outfit?
A thinner, lacier shawl will require a lighter fingering weight or DK yarn, while a warm and cozy wrap for winter can handle a chunkier yarn. Of course, your pattern might specify a particular yarn weight.
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of crocheting shawls using different yarn weights :
| Yarn Weight | Lightweight | Worsted Weight | Bulky Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best used in... | Lacy shawl patterns | More detailed shawl patterns | Chunky wrap patterns |
| Advantages | Allows for intricate lacy stitches | Looks great with more complex stitch patterns | Works up quickly |
| Disadvantages | Works up very slowly | Works up more slowly than bulkier yarn | Less drape |
| Recommendations | Truboo Coboo Mandala | Color Theory Wool-Ease | Homespun Scarfie |
Consider Using Self-Striping Yarn
Shawls and wraps in multiple colors look incredible, but weaving in all those ends can be a pain. If you’re intimidated by choosing colors or having a lot of tails to tie off, I recommend using a self-striping cake yarn.
Lion Brand Mandala or Mandala Ombre are two of the best yarns for crochet shawls because they create colorful stripes as you go without adding additional finishing work.
Block Your Shawl For an Even Finish
Blocking your completed crochet project allows you to shape it exactly as you want. It ensures that your stitches look neat and even and gives any shawl a more professional finish.
First, pin your project into place against a flat surface. Make sure it takes on the shape you want. Then spray it all over with water and leave it to dry overnight.
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Free Crochet Patterns for Shawls and Wraps
These free patterns will inspire your next crocheted wrap or shawl project. I've grouped them into categories, so you can find the perfect crochet shawl and start immediately.
Easy Shawls for Beginners
Try one of these easy crochet shawl patterns if you want a beginner-friendly project. Any of these free patterns will help you create a simple shawl to be proud of.
makeanddocrew.com
One-Skein Triangle Wrap
This is the perfect crochet shawl for a beginner or anyone who wants to use up a leftover skein of yarn. It uses basic crochet stitches and techniques, all laid out in easy-to-follow instructions.
It looks especially great with self-striping yarn – but even if you decide to use a single color, working with one skein means you don't have to deal with weaving in your ends.
Get the Pattern
nanascraftyhome.com
Simple Shawl for Beginners
This easy shawl crochet pattern has a one-row repeat, which makes it the perfect meditative project to work on as you watch a movie. It only uses the double crochet stitch (dc). It’s a quick crochet shawl pattern that will suit an absolute beginner.
makeanddocrew.com
Reversible Tunisian Wrap
With this simple Tunisian crochet project, you get two shawls in one. This light, draping wrap is ideal for practicing basic stitches and learning how to make crochet look like woven fabric. Follow by video or written instructions.
Get the Pattern
RELATED: How to Tunisian Crochet
www.ravelry.com
Ribbon Shawl
This beginner's crochet shawl features gorgeous stripes with a surprisingly satisfying texture. It includes photos of each step in the process and a video tutorial (though the videos only include Russian subtitles). It may look intricate, but it's an easy pattern that will help you build your crochet confidence.
mypoppet.com.au
Gradient Shawl
Of course, you don't have to make this project using gradient yarn, but it's hard to deny how fantastic it looks in colorful stripes. Using basic crochet stitches, you can make a quick, lightweight crochet shawl that's sure to wow your friends.
makeanddocrew.com
Granny Stitch Wrap
The granny stitch is common in blanket projects, but you can also use it to make a cozy wrap. The pattern is easy to memorize, so you can work on this project during a lazy afternoon with Netflix. Include some tassels for a finishing touch.
Get the Pattern
Related: Modern Crochet Granny Stitch Blanket
Triangle Shawls
These free crochet triangle shawl patterns are a little more advanced, making them ideal if you're ready to broaden your crochet horizons. You’ll practice increasing, decreasing, and using some unique crochet stitches for shawls that can be worn over your shoulders or around your neck.
makeanddocrew.com
Asymmetrical Triangle Wrap
This elegant triangle shawl has a modern asymmetrical design. Its lacy stitches make it cool and airy enough for hot summers, and its pattern is surprisingly easy to remember. Just make sure to count each stitch carefully for that distinctive scalene triangle shape.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Puff Stitch Shawl
This gorgeous free pattern uses the horizontal puff stitch, a variation of the standard puff stitch. It's the perfect design to help you hone your crochet skills and branch out into new techniques. The pattern suggests using cotton yarn to keep this easy shawl as light and breathable as possible.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Tunisian Crochet Fade Shawl
You'll need to understand the basics of Tunisian to make this shawl pattern work – but what better way to learn than by practicing? The striking fade effect is simple to achieve with just two yarns. If you have a random skein of hand-dyed yarn in your stash, this is the pattern to use it on!
Get the Pattern
knitterknotter.com
Ruffled Edge Wrap
This triangle shawl's most impressive feature is its beautiful ruffled edging. Make this Tunisian crochet project more of a challenge by using a gradient of yarn colors, or keep it simple with a solid instead. Whatever you decide, you'll come away with a cozy shawl with plenty of comfortable drape.
makeanddocrew.com
Modern Striped Shawl
This striking striped pattern looks a lot more complex than it is – which makes it the perfect project for anyone trying to impress with a handmade gift. It's the ideal weight for a summer wrap, or wear it around your neck as a cozy scarf in winter. With a bold and modern design, it offers the best of both worlds.
Get the Pattern
www.twobrothersblankets.com
Lattice Triangle Shawl
This lightweight, latticed triangle shawl is a great accessory for a cool summer evening. It's made using fingering weight yarn, which keeps it flowy for anyone living in a warmer climate.
The simple stitches work up quickly without the hassle of memorizing a complicated pattern. Follow along with the video tutorial for an extra helping hand.
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Chunky, Fast Shawls
Heavier yarn weights make these cozy winter accessories quick and easy to make. And if you want to make a full wintertime outfit, check out our favorite free crochet sweater patterns for more cold-weather gear.
makeanddocrew.com
Chunky Boho Shawl
This free shawl pattern proves that you don't have to sacrifice fine detail when using chunky yarn. Delicate eyelets and dense, cozy stitches combine to make a gorgeous, unique winter shawl. Use the pattern as written, or tweak the border or the color scheme to make it your own.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Cozy Striped Wrap
Have you ever wanted to wear a warm blanket in public? This cozy wrap is the opportunity you've been waiting for. Its thick, insulating weave will keep you toasty all winter long, and the striped pattern gives it a bold fashionable edge.
Get the Pattern
icancrochetthat.com
Raised Stitches Wrap
The raised stitches give this chunky wrap a textural striping effect – a modern and stylish look for a winter shawl. Use colorful self-striping yarn for extra variety. You can also add tassels on each corner for a finishing touch.
www.stitchandhustle.com
Hooded Shawl
Drape can often be a problem when you work with bulky yarn, but this hooded shawl shows that coziness and flow can coexist. It's the ideal accessory for a chilly winter day, as well as an opportunity to practice crocheting more complex shapes.
richtexturescrochet.com
Wavy Shawl
It's one thing to crochet stripes... but what about stripes that are also wavy? This crochet shoulder wrap uses simple stitches to create a unique and eye-catching ripple effect. It offers more experienced crocheters a fun new challenge and helps beginners to develop their basic stitches into more involved stitch patterns.
leeleeknits.com
Cluster Stitch Wrap
What's more wintry than a cozy bobbled fabric? This wrap uses the cluster stitch arranged in neat striped rows to create a beautiful texture. Follow along with the video tutorial for a head start.
RELATED: How to Crochet a Bobble Cardigan
makeanddocrew.com
Puff and Lace Shawl
The combination of puff stitches and intricate lacework creates an unusual texture that’s both airy and warm. And despite the delicate stitch pattern, this triangle scarf is quick and easy to memorize. Wear it around your neck or draped over your shoulders, depending on the weather.
Get the Pattern
www.hookedonhomemadehappiness.com
Petal Shawl
The cluster V stitches in this lace shawl pattern look like flowers, hence the name. It uses DK weight yarn to capture those fine details, but it still works into a warm and comfortable wrap for the winter.
makeanddocrew.com
Bead Stitch Wrap
This chunky, bohemian shawl uses a variation on the bead stitch to create its striking texture. It's dense enough to protect from a chill and has enough drape to make a comfy accessory. Use it as a triangle shawl, or adjust the stitch count down to create a cozy scarf instead.
Get the Pattern
Rectangle Wraps
From lacy stoles to thoughtful prayer shawl projects, a rectangle wrap can be anything you want it to be. Its simple shape can give you a straightforward introduction to crochet shawls.
As you get more advanced, you can liven up these patterns with features like pockets and buttons. These crocheted wraps will be a total breeze if you're familiar with blanket and afghan patterns.
makeanddocrew.com
Pocket Shawl
Simple Tunisian stitches create a drapey, comfortable rectangle shawl. The pockets are ideal for keeping your hands warm while holding your shawl snugly in place. Add some buttons to create a poncho-style look.
Get the Pattern
Related: Easy Crochet Poncho Patterns
makeanddocrew.com
Simple Lace Wrap
Don't be fooled by the intricate look of this lacy stitch pattern – it's much easier than you think! Once you've memorized the simple stitch repeat, it works up fast with worsted weight yarn.
The mix of eyelets and dense stitches makes this the perfect wrap to transition seasons. I could even imagine it used as a wedding shawl pattern for the bride and bridesmaids.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Tunisian Herringbone Shawl
This bold, eye-catching herringbone pattern will make your shawl stand out. It uses simple Tunisian stitches to create a timeless look in a warm and squishy fabric. Liven up your outfit on a cool winter day with this stylish oversized wrap.
Get the Pattern
www.twoofwands.com
Geometric Wrap
The classic granny square gets a modern makeover in this free shawl pattern. This stylish graphic accessory will turn heads whether you wear it as a shawl or blanket scarf. The fabric is drapey and breathable enough for comfort at any time of year.
trulycrochet.com
Filet Rectangle Wrap
This lacy shawl pattern combines a simple shape with more complex filet crochet stitches. The holes created by the filet stitches make for a light summertime shawl, perfect for tossing on in an air-conditioned restaurant or theater.
Intermediate Shawls
Now that you've mastered the basics of easy crochet wraps and shawls, why not tackle something more challenging? These intermediate shawl patterns will allow you to learn new crochet stitches, practice what you already know, and prepare for more elaborate projects like sweaters and cardigans.
www.dadasplace.com
Beaded Shawl
This delicate, lacy shawl has an unexpected feature: beading. Learn how to incorporate beads into your work to give a finished project some extra decoration.
www.lillabjorncrochet.com
Lace Trimmed Wrap
If you want to master lacework crochet, this elaborate lacy wrap is an opportunity to hone your skills. And once you've worked up the main body, get even more practice by adding an intricate trim around the edges. The result is a gorgeous summer shawl that will impress your friends.
tlycblog.com
Tunisian Patchwork Shawl
Use your Tunisian crochet skills to create this striking patchwork shawl. Despite looking complex, this soothing and meditative pattern will help you wind down after a long day. You can even make the entire project with a standard crochet hook.
www.lillabjorncrochet.com
Mosaic Crochet Shawl
Inspired by mosaic tile designs from ancient Greece and Rome, this two-tone shawl boasts a stunning geometric pattern with a comfortable amount of drape. Though it only uses single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), and chain (ch) stitches, it's complex enough that you will need to count your stitches.
www.youtube.com
Tasseled Shawl
Looking for an easy pattern that will work up quickly over a weekend? This lightweight wrap is the perfect lacy addition to a summertime outfit. Add tassels for an extra bohemian flourish.
knitterknotter.com
Moss Stitch Triangle Wrap
This zigzag-patterned wrap uses the moss stitch and nothing else. You can make it quickly and easily if you know how to make chains and single crochet stitches. This free pattern comes in both small and large sizes, depending on how you prefer to wear it.
Related: Learn How to Crochet the Moss Stitch
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How Big Should My Crochet Shawl Be?
There's no standard size for a shawl. Your finished product should consider the size of the person wearing it. A shawl designed for a child will be much smaller than one for an adult.
Here’s a guide to common size ranges for adult-sized shawls:
| Inches | Centimeters | |
|---|---|---|
| Triangle Shawl | 70-75” x 30-35” | 178-190 cm x 76-89 cm |
| Rectangle Shawl | 70-75” x 15-20” | 178-190 cm x 38-51 cm |
Supplies You'll Need
The materials to crochet a shawl are similar to many other projects. Here are the basic supplies you'll need:
- Hook in size specified by the pattern
- Yarn in the weight and quantity specified by the pattern
- Scissors to finish your shawl
- Blocking board to lay out your shawl for blocking
- T-pins to secure your project on the blocking board
- A steamer or spray bottle to apply moisture during blocking
Depending on your pattern, you may also need some other notions, including:
- Measuring tape
- Stitch markers
- Tapestry needle
Shawl and Wrap Pattern FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about crocheting shawls.
What type of wrap should I make?
For beginners, it's better to stick to simple shapes. A straightforward rectangular shawl is a beginner-friendly way to crochet your first shawl. Another option is a triangle wrap that doesn't use too many different stitches.
You can try shawls that involve more complex color work or stitch patterns as you get more advanced. You can even add crochet borders to your finished shawls and wraps.
How much yarn will I need to make a wrap?
Usually, the pattern will tell you how much yarn a project needs. If you aren't working from a pattern, you can determine roughly how much yarn you need by making a gauge swatch.
All you have to do is make a 6" by 6" square using the stitches you plan to use for your project. This will tell you how many stitches per inch your shawl will need.
From there, you can calculate a rough estimate of how many yards of yarn you'll need using the formula (length x width x gauge) / 6. I advise rounding up, just in case.
Remember that this formula doesn't work as well for triangular shawls. When making a triangle shawl, it's best to work from a pattern that lists yardage if you have a limited amount of yarn.
What is the best stitch for a crochet shawl?
Denser, closed stitches are better for cold-weather shawls, while more decorative shawls often incorporate intricate lace stitches. Taller stitches will make for a quicker shawl project.
You can combine different stitches into your shawl designs as you get more practice. Keep the purpose of your wrap in mind as you decide which stitches to use.
How long does it take to crochet a shawl pattern?
A crochet shawl can take as few as two to three hours or as many as 20 hours to complete. The exact time will depend on your skill level, the yarn weight, and how distracted you are by the TV while you work!
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That was so fun! Now what?
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- Leave a comment: Say hello and share your feedback below.
Invitation to our Facebook group
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