CROCHET. ALL. THE. SHAWLS: The Ultimate Guide to Crochet Shawl Shapes for the Absolute Beginner
/Hey there, fellow crochet peeps! Today, we're zeroing in on one of the most stylish and versatile crochet projects - the ever-so-elegant shawl. If you are like me, shawls are a plenty on your list of things to make and wear. I love them because they can be simple or complex and styled in so many ways. Today I will be reviewing and featuring my top five shawl shapes and my fave shawl in each shape!
Now, don't freak out! I know the idea of crocheting a shawl might seem a bit intimidating for beginners, but trust me, it doesn't have to be. We’re here to break it down into simple, easy-to-follow crochet shawl patterns that are perfect for crochet newbies.
Bonus: they are super trendy, so you'll look like a crochet queen (or king) in no time!
And if you are more seasoned, then you will love our breakdown of why we love the various crochet shawl shapes and find some great free patterns to make.
1. Granny Square Shawl
Starting off with an oldie but a goodie – the Granny Square Shawl. Think of it as the PB&J of crochet - simple, classic, and loved by all. The best part? You can personalize it with different colors, yarn textures, and square sizes. It's just about repeating one simple pattern over and over, which makes it a perfect beginner crochet shawl pattern. Even though it is a bit more rectangle than “square”, being centered on the granny makes it a staple in my shawl library.
In this category, we have the Ella free crochet pattern. It is such a fun invitation to play with your own unique color combinations.
2. Asymmetrical Triangle Crochet Shawl
If you’re going for the effortlessly cool look, the Asymmetrical Triangle Crochet Shawl has got your back (literally!). This pattern introduces you to the technique of increasing rows to form that chic triangular shape. Stick with one color for a minimalist vibe or mix it up with a fun color gradient.
The Gramercy Shawl free crochet pattern is a simple and meditative triangle crochet shawl project you can try with almost any yarn. It grows into its Asymmetrical Triangle shape as you keep going too.
3. Half Circle Shawl
Ready to level up? The Half-Circle Shawl might be just the thing. It's a bit trickier than the granny square and triangle shawls, but nothing you can't handle! This pattern creates a gorgeous drape that's perfect for adding some crochet elegance to your outfit.
The Modified Butterfly Shawl has beautiful, delicate lace panels that follow the half circle shape of the shawl.
4. Traditional Triangle Shawl and One-Skein Shawl
The traditional triangle shape can grow more symmetrically and alow for more symmetry in your deisgn and color choices. Another cool thing about Traditional Triangle shawls is that they can be styled in lots of ways - I even wear them as a sarong sometimes.
And if you are on a budget or oing on a trip and need a quick project you will this as a One-Skein Shawl. As the name hints, you can create a beautiful piece with just one skein of yarn! It’s a fun, fast pattern that’s beginner-friendly.
Our Montgomery Street Bandana is a perfect one-skein crochet shawl project. You can make it any size to fit the amount of yarn you have.
5. Rectangular Shawl
The Rectangular Shawl is like the comfort food of crochet shawls. This pattern is basically a wider scarf – super cozy and perfect for those chilly nights. Plus, it's an excellent way for beginners to practice basic crochet stitches without having to worry about increasing or decreasing.
We love our Shoreline Wrap free rectangle shawl crochet pattern for its versatility, drape, and flow.
Remember, crochet is a journey. It's totally okay (and normal) for your first few projects to be a bit, well, less than perfect. Every loop, every stitch you make is progress.
The awesome thing about crocheting shawls is the freedom to play around with different stitches, colors, and designs. So grab your hook and yarn, and let's start creating some crochet magic together!
