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41 Free Shawl Knitting Patterns To Make For Spring

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This post will show 41 free shawl knitting patterns for spring.

Shawls are a staple piece in our wardrobes, in the winter we wear heavier shawls that can protect us from the weather and make our outfit pop.

In the warmer seasons, we choose lighter shawls that can be worn on chilly spring and summer nights and will keep the slight breeze away while looking fashionable or over a bathing suit at the beach.

Free shawl knitting patterns for spring

41 Shawl Knitting Patterns For Spring

If you are looking to start making a shawl or scarf for your afternoon walks in spring or you want to make something for a friend take a look at the patterns below and you might find your next project.  

The Yarns Used For Knitting Shawls

Lion Brand Yarns has a yarn line called shawl in a cake you can make an entire shawl using only one skein.

Shawls can be knit in heavy bulky weight yarn for a fall/winter cozy vibe or in aran/worsted yarns or DK weight yarn for a warm yet lighter piece.

Perfect for knitting shawls is Cascade 220 yarn, as there are so many colors to choose from.

A great yarn for a shawl is a variegated or self-striping yarn, as it creates a beautiful effect without you doing any work.

What yarn fibers are better for knitted shawls?

Selecting the right yarn fiber for knitted shawls depends on the desired characteristics of the finished piece. 

Commonly, fibers that offer a combination of softness, drape, and stitch definition are preferred. 

Natural fibers such as merino wool are popular choices, providing a luxurious feel and excellent warmth. 

Merino wool is prized for its softness and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of shawl patterns. 

Additionally, alpaca yarn, known for its silky texture and warmth, can lend a luxurious touch to shawls. 

For a lightweight and breathable option, consider using cotton or bamboo yarn, both of which are ideal for warmer climates. 

Silk blends can add a subtle sheen to airy shawls, enhancing their visual appeal. 

cascade 220 yarn

What Do You Need To Knit A Shawl?

To knit a shawl, you’ll need a few basic knitting supplies. Here’s a list of essentials:

  1. Knitting Needles: Select needles based on the yarn weight and your personal gauge. Circular needles are often preferred for shawls, especially those with larger wingspans.
  2. Stitch Markers: Use stitch markers to identify key points in the pattern, such as the center or edges, and to mark repeats if the pattern requires it.
  3. Tapestry Needle A tapestry needle is essential for weaving in loose ends and finishing touches.
  4. Scissors: Keep a pair of scissors handy for cutting yarn as needed.
  5. Blocking Tools: Blocking is crucial to open up lace patterns and shape the shawl. You may need blocking mats, T-pins, and a spray bottle for wet blocking.
  6. Row Counter: A row counter can help you keep track of your progress, especially if the pattern has multiple repeats.
  7. Measuring Tape: Measure your work as you go to ensure it matches the pattern specifications.

Learn how to read a yan label here – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step) 

A Little History About Shawls

Throughout fashion history, shawls have been a statement piece. 

They originated in India and appeared in Europe in the late 1700s, especially in France and Britain. 

The upper classes originally wore shawls as they were very expensive, they were passed down and considered an heirloom.

It wasn’t until the early 19th century that more inexpensive pieces were being produced, and the shawls finally reached the middle class.

Merry-Joseph_Blondel_-_Felicite-Louise-Julie-Constance_de_Durfort
The young wife of the wealthy Pierre Riel, Félicité-Louise-Julie-Constance de Durfort, with a Kashmir paisley shawl. Courtesy of Wikipedia. Read more here.

Shawls for the masses

As the 1800s progressed so did the shawls and their manufacturing towards the end of the century even working-class women would wear shawls of lesser quality.

But as the 20th century rolled around and women’s fashion introduced more fitted styles, shawls faded away.

They made a small comeback in the late ’90s and early 2000s in the form of pashminas, a cashmere shawl that would accompany the strapless and sleeveless dress. 

a-variety-of-women-wearing-shawls
A Variety of ways of Wearing Shawls in early 19th century France, Lithograph, 1802-1814.
Read more here.

Knitted shawls become more in style

Nowadays, we love to wear and make knitted or crochet shawls in various yarns, styles, sizes, and colors.

Squishy and warm shawls made with chunky yarn that you can throw on your shoulders or huge ones that you can wrap around your body in the winter, lighter ones that you can wear in spring, and even lighter lace ones in summer. 

You can try various shawl knitting patterns depending on your sense of fashion, your preference for yarns, and your skill level. 

knitted-shawl

All About Shawl Shapes

There are numerous shawl shapes that offer diverse styles and silhouettes, providing knitters with a range of options to suit their preferences and the intended use of the garment. 

Some common shawl shapes include triangular, crescent, rectangular, square, and asymmetrical. 

  • Triangular shawls typically start at a point and increase along the edges, forming a classic triangle shape when worn. 
  • Crescent shawls feature a gently curved bottom edge, providing a flattering drape around the shoulders. 
  • Rectangular shawls offer versatility and can be draped in various ways, while square shawls present a symmetrical design.
  • Asymmetrical shawls embrace unique and creative shaping, often incorporating a variety of stitch patterns to enhance visual interest. 

Each shape lends itself to different stitch patterns and construction techniques, allowing knitters to explore a wide array of possibilities when creating these versatile and stylish accessories.

Sontag Shawls

I love making shawls and one of my main inspirations is the tv show Outlander where you can see an array of Sontag shawls and other knitwear that includes: arm warmers, gloves, berets, and cowls. –

The main characters wear beautiful shawls that I love to get inspired by and recreate.

You can see my shawl knitting patterns here: Shawls + Wraps and the Outlander Collection 2020 | Shawls, Wraps + Capelet Ebook

And all of my Outlander-inspired knitting patterns here: The Outlander Pattern Library

Outlander Claire Rent Shawl

Knitting Lessons

If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know. 

Including how to cast on, how to knit the basic knit stitches, how to knit the knit stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, the mattress stitch, short rows, and a list of knitting abbreviations, and more. 

For more easy projects, check out this pattern category, there you will find a range of knitting patterns – Beginner Knitters.

And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube. 

Join The Handy Little Me Facebook Group to connect with more makers.

shawl knitting patterns for spring

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2 Comments

    1. Hello Ann,
      I’m so happy you like the shawls, I hope you find one that you want to make.
      Happy knitting!
      Louise