by A crochet shawl is a timeless accessory — elegant, cozy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you wear it draped over your shoulders on a cool evening or wrapped around your neck like a scarf, a handmade shawl is always a beautiful statement piece. And the best part? You can make a stylish crochet shawl even as a beginner!
This tutorial will walk you through how to crochet a simple yet stunning shawl, with clear instructions, tips, and customization ideas.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these supplies:
Yarn:
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Type: Any yarn will work, but for beginners, choose:
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Worsted weight (Category 4) or DK yarn (Category 3)
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Amount: 500–800 yards depending on size and stitch used
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Fiber: Acrylic, wool blend, or cotton (your choice!)
Tools:
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Crochet Hook: 5.0 mm (H/8) or size recommended by yarn label
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Scissors
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Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
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Stitch markers (optional)
Basic Crochet Stitches You’ll Use
This pattern uses basic stitches, ideal for beginners:
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ch – chain
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dc – double crochet
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sl st – slip stitch
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sk – skip stitch
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V-stitch – (dc, ch 1, dc) in the same stitch
If you’re new to these, try practicing them with a small swatch before starting your shawl.
Choosing a Shawl Shape
This tutorial focuses on the most beginner-friendly and popular shape:
Triangle Shawl (Top-Down Method)
It starts at the top center and grows outward to form a triangle — perfect for wrapping around the shoulders or neck.
Easy Triangle Crochet Shawl Pattern (V-Stitch Style)
✅ Step 1: Foundation Chain
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Start with a slip knot, then:
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Ch 4
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In the 4th chain from the hook, make 2 dc
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Ch 3 and turn
(You now have the first row of your triangle)
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✅ Step 2: Build the Triangle with V-Stitches
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Row 2:
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In the first stitch (top of turning chain), make (dc, ch 1, dc)
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In the last stitch (the last dc of the previous row), make another (dc, ch 1, dc)
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Ch 3, turn
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Row 3:
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Dc into first dc
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In the ch-1 space from previous row, make (dc, ch 1, dc) (this is your V-stitch)
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Dc into the last dc
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Ch 3, turn
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Step 3: Repeat the Pattern
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Continue working V-stitches into each ch-1 space from the previous row.
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At the beginning and end of every row, place 1 dc (these make the straight edges).
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Your triangle will grow wider and deeper with each row.
Tip: By row 10, you should have a visible triangle forming. The more rows you add, the larger the shawl becomes.
Target Size
You can stop when the shawl is:
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About 60–70 inches wide across the top (standard adult size)
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Or shorter, if you prefer a small shoulder wrap or scarf-style shawl
✨ Optional: Edging for a Polished Finish
Once you’ve reached the desired size, you can add an easy decorative edge.
Simple Shell Edge:
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Ch 1, turn
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Sc in next st, skip 1, 5 dc in next st, skip 1 — repeat across
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End with a sc in the last stitch
This creates a soft scalloped finish that looks beautiful.
Customization Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basics, try some of these enhancements:
Color:
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Use gradient or ombré yarn for a color-shifting effect
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Crochet with stripes by changing color every few rows
Texture:
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Alternate between rows of dc and hdc for subtle texture
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Use puff or bobble stitches for decorative rows
Embellishments:
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Add fringe or tassels to the ends
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Attach a crocheted flower or brooch as a shawl pin
Care Instructions
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Wash gently in cold water
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Lay flat to dry (especially if made with wool)
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Always check your yarn label for specific instructions
Sharing Your Work
Once your shawl is finished:
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Take a photo and share your project on social media!
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Use hashtags like:
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#CrochetShawl
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#HandmadeStyle
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#CrochetForBeginners
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Final Thoughts
Crocheting a shawl is not only relaxing — it’s practical and rewarding. You’ll be surprised how quickly a few rows of simple stitches can turn into a stunning, wearable work of art.
Even if this is your first-ever crochet project, this pattern will guide you from a single chain to a finished shawl you’ll be proud to wear or gift.
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