Spring has come to the Northern Adirondacks sort of at least the April (snow) showers came today. It is still cool outside, in the 40 to 50 degree (F.) range. (except for today... it's currently 32 degrees F. outdoors) Chilly enough to need something to keep my shoulders warm. Perfect weather for those pretty shawls I love to make. (the shawl I'm wearing in the photo is one of my favorite lace shawls) These aren't the shawls some of you may have seen in old movies, these shawls are fresh new creations by indie designers from every corner of the planet! I used to spend hours searching websites like Etsy looking for the perfect pattern but after having purchased a few crochet bundles, signed up for newsletters, and learned about the design process from indie designers, I now look to my email inbox for inspiration. Every day I eagerly open my gmail knowing there's going to be one new design that I can't wait to check out for myself. Whether its the latest from Shehnaaz designer at Crochet Dreamz or Hortense, designer at Knitting with Chopsticks there are a lot of projects to choose from as well as teasers about new designs on the horizon. Because it is shawl season the newsletters that come to my inbox are filled with shawl patterns.
Not every shawl pattern looks like the Dowager Duchess would wear this across the ballroom floor on some television saga. Many of the modern shawls are both attractive AND practical. The patterns are designed so that one can easily wrap up for an evening walk or to watch the dying embers of a firepit. These shawls would be equally attractive with a Spring dress or fashion jacket at work. Here are just a few of the more casual shawl patterns from my hoard: Shehnaaz created this “Brighter Days Shawl” A colorful triangle shawl The Simone Wrap by Bernadine Graham A lacy look rectangle wrap The Winter Saffron Shawl by Cirsium Crochet An open look triangle shape crochet. For knitters: Marly Bird's Super Simple Two Ball Shawl I love the yellow and gray colors Marly chose for her shawl. The Pantone Colors of the year! Asymmetrical Knit Scarf by Stitches n Scraps This design may look challenging, but if you know how to do the knit stitch you will be able to knit this scarf/shawl. It is the perfect size for Spring. Simple Lace Triangle Shawl by Red Heart I made one of my first shawls in this style. Shawl patterns vary greatly in length and width. A shawl may be designed wide enough to double as a blanket or narrow enough to be a scarf. It really does run the gambit! “Blanket Shawls” are “kind of perfect”, as the cool kids say. Imagine having a fabulous accessory to wear to a late evening beach party or to carry along when the weather is uncertain! Here are a few great blanket wrap patterns: Sigoni Macaroni's Cozy Hygge Blanket Wrap Beautiful! It’s made with chunky weight The Country Willows "Milan Wrap" I know not everyone finds it easy to make their shawls lengthwise. Chaining/stitching a hundred or so chains can be difficult if you are new to crocheting or you are trying to make a shawl while on the go. Here is a good crochet pattern: Mama in a Stitch: Easy Granny Triangle I like this shawl! The stitch may have a vintage feel however, the choice of yarn can bring this shawl right into the 21st century. For instance check out Red Heart Heat Wave Yarn This yarn uses sunlight to create added warmth. A real bonus! Narrow width scarf/shawls in crochet include: Red Heart Glamorous Wrap Red Heart Relax and Unwind Shawl I like both of these shawls very much. The interest lies in the shape or stitch of the pattern. Knitters you’ll find that the wide shawl patterns aren’t so difficult to find for free online. Caron Simply Soft Glitter Girl Shawl This shawl has a lovely texture and the yarn will add a lovely drape. Perfect, in fact. The Simply Stripy Shawl by Knitting Bee Here’s a shawl pattern that will keep you busy while binge watching your favorite TV shows. This pattern is made with Premier Sweet Roll yarn on size 10 knitting needles. Quick, easy and attractive. Narrow shaped shawl knitting pattern: Nobel Knits Asymmetrical Shawl I love this little beauty. Although it is small enough to stash in your coat pocket or purse at work, it’s also oh so graceful. Looking for a pattern that is just a little fancy? There are so many outstanding free patterns for shawls with a little lacey touches to give flair to an outfit. Never hurts to have one of these shawls on hand for a wedding or a christening. Especially when you are unsure of the dress code. Shehnaaz' Head Turner Lacy Crochet Shawl This mixture of stitches is lovely. One could certainly use a gradient yarn or one color to accent an outfit. Two Brothers Blankets Cherry Blossom Shawl This delicate scarf/shawl is a classic design. I love the mix of the basic stitches with hints of lace. When lace is the subject Knitters have a plethora of choices. Melissa Leapman's Crescent Shawl This is a beauty of a shawl to decorate your shoulders. Small frost flower like pattern graces the edges of this pattern. Tracey Withanee's Garden View Shawlette The gentle sloping leaves at the edge of this shawl make a statement without drawing attention away from the wearer. My job today has been to introduce you to some fine designs and fine designers. I hope you see the ubiquitous shawl in a whole new light. You may want to check out these designer websites if you have the time. You’ve seen how ingenious they can be with knitting needles or a hook and yarn in just these few designs. Their websites are a feast for the eyes! (even if you don’t knit or crochet) Designers love it if you leave a complimentary remark about their work! I thank you in advance.
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