Crochet Bouquet Shawl: Step-by-Step Pattern for a Cozy Wrap

Ever wished you could wrap yourself in a bouquet of flowers that also offers a comforting hug? Well, now you can! Christa from the Secret Yarnery has created a fabulous emotional support bouquet shawl, and I'm here to guide you through the process with this detailed written guide based on her popular YouTube tutorial. Get ready to crochet your own wearable bouquet!

In a world that can often feel overwhelming, emotional support items offer a sense of comfort and security. This crochet bouquet shawl takes that concept to a whole new level. Imagine a cozy shawl, soft against your skin, adorned with vibrant, crocheted flowers that resemble a beautiful bouquet. It's not just a shawl; it's a wearable piece of art that provides both warmth and a visual pick-me-up. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite colors and adjust the size to perfectly suit your needs.

There are so many reasons to embark on this crochet journey!

• Therapeutic Benefits: The rhythmic motion of crochet is incredibly relaxing and meditative. It's a wonderful way to unwind and de-stress after a long day.
• Unique and Personalized Gift: A handmade gift is always special, and this Easy Crochet Flower Bouquet is sure to be treasured. Imagine the joy of gifting a loved one a shawl that's not only beautiful but also provides emotional support.
• Skill-Building Project: Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this project offers a chance to learn new techniques and expand your skills.
• Versatile Accessory: This shawl can be worn in so many ways! Drape it over your shoulders for a touch of elegance, wrap it around your neck for warmth, or simply display it as a decorative piece. It's a versatile accessory that will complement any wardrobe. Maybe you'll find other Amazing Crochet Shawls for Spring that you want to try as well!

To create your own emotional support bouquet shawl, gather these materials:

• Yarn:
  • 550 grams of white yarn.
  • 200 grams of yarn for your flowers in your desired colors.
  • 75 grams of green yarn for the leaves.
  • Consider using a worsted weight yarn in acrylic or cotton.
  • If you want to Shop floral themed yarns for your project, check out the Secret Yarnery's selection!
  • You can substitute yarn, but remember to adjust your hook sizes accordingly.
• Crochet Hooks:
  • 6mm crochet hook.
  • 4mm crochet hook (for attaching the flowers).
• Tools:
  • 7 stitch markers (optional, but helpful for beginners).
  • Scissors.
  • Yarn needle for weaving in ends.
  • Sharp Tip Needles.

Christa's finished shawl measures approximately 27 inches long and has 42 rows (including the starting row). You can easily adjust the size by adding or removing rows to make it longer or shorter. You could even create a smaller capelet version if you prefer!

Here are some common crochet abbreviations you'll encounter in this pattern:

• ch - chain
• sc - single crochet
• tr - treble crochet
• dc - double crochet
• sl st - slip stitch

Let's begin by creating the foundation chain:

1. Make a slip knot, leaving a long tail for weaving in later.
2. Chain 12.
3. Work into the back loops of the chain.

Creating a neat foundation is crucial for a smooth and comfortable neck edge.

Now, let's work the first row of single crochet:

1. Skip the first back loop (the one closest to the hook).
2. Single crochet into each back loop across the chain.
3. Chain one, and turn your work.

This row introduces the treble crochet stitch, which creates a beautiful texture:

1. Skip four stitches.
2. In the fifth stitch, work one treble crochet, chain one, and another treble crochet.
3. Chain one, and in the next stitch, work one treble crochet, chain one, and another treble crochet.
4. Repeat this pattern across the row.
5. Slip stitch into the first stitch along the beginning edge.

This row establishes the double crochet pattern that forms the main body of the shawl:

1. Chain two (or three if you crochet tightly), and turn your work.
2. Work two double crochets into the first stitch along the edge.
3. Chain one, and work three double crochets into the next stitch.
4. Repeat this pattern across the row.
5. Chain one, and work three double crochets into the last stitch.

The chain two (or three) at the beginning of the row helps create a straight edge.

This is where the magic happens! The repeat pattern creates the gradual increase in size and the lovely drape of the shawl.

• Understanding the Increase: The pattern is designed to increase the number of double crochets in each row, creating a wider shawl.
• Step-by-step instructions:
  1. Chain two, and turn your work.
  2. Work one double crochet into the first stitch.
  3. Work two double crochets into the first stitch of each set, and one double crochet into each of the remaining stitches in the set.
  4. Chain one, and skip to the next set.

Tips for Maintaining a Straight Edge

• Always work into the chain at the end of each row.
• Count your stitches periodically to ensure accuracy.
• Adjust the chain count (2 vs. 3) at the beginning of each row to maintain a straight edge.

Adjusting the Size of Your Shawl

Want a wider shawl? Simply add more rows! Measure your shawl periodically to check the size and adjust the number of rows accordingly. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the flower placement based on the final size of your shawl.

Once your shawl reaches the desired length, it's time to finish off:

1. Work the last double crochet, but leave the last two loops on your hook.
2. Grab your leaf-colored yarn and pull it through the loops to finish off.

The leaf border adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to the shawl:

1. Chain three, and turn your work.
2. Skip two stitches, and single crochet into the third stitch.
3. Chain three, skip two, and single crochet into the third stitch.
4. Repeat this pattern across the bottom edge of the shawl.

When you reach the chain spaces along the edge, remember to count the chain as one stitch.

This row creates the actual leaf shapes:

1. Chain one, and turn your work.
2. Single crochet into the first stitch, chain five.
3. Slip stitch into the second chain, single crochet into the next chain, chain one.
4. Half double crochet into the next chain, and double crochet into the last chain.
5. Single crochet into the next stitch.
6. Repeat this pattern across the edge of the shawl.

To finish the leaf border:

1. Single crochet into the legs of the first stitch.
2. Chain one, cut the yarn, and pull through to secure.

Use a yarn needle to weave in all loose ends, matching the yarn colors for a seamless finish. 

Now for the fun part: adding the flowers! You can choose to make the flowers separately and then attach them, or you can crochet them directly onto the shawl.

• Separate Flowers: This method allows you to arrange and rearrange the flowers until you're happy with the placement.
• Crocheting Directly onto Shawl: This method is faster but less flexible.

There are two different flower sizes:

• Small Flower: Chain 14 to start.
• Large Flower: Chain 20 to start.

Here's how to create the flower center (using the small flower as an example):

1. Make a slip knot, leaving a long tail (about 8 inches).
2. Chain 14.
3. Go into the third chain from the hook.
4. Work one double crochet into the third chain from the hook.
5. Work two double crochets into the next chain.
6. Work three double crochets into each of the remaining chains.

Remember to work into the same top loop of the chain consistently.

To finish the flower:

1. Slip stitch into the very same chain at the bottom.
2. Chain one to secure your yarn.
3. Leave a longer tail (around 12 inches) for sewing.
4. Cut the yarn and pull through to secure.

This step gives the flower its shape:

1. Thread the needle with the long tail.
2. Start at the beginning (center) and roll it up.
3. Sew the top edges together, keeping them flat.
4. Flip the flower over and sew across the base, skipping stitches.

Make sure to keep the flower secure and prevent it from shrinking as you sew.

Here's how to attach the flowers if you made them separately:

1. Identify the top of the flower (pretty stitches facing up).
2. Insert the smaller crochet hook into the front loops of a stitch on the shawl.
3. Insert the hook into the flower and bring one tail through.
4. Insert the hook in the opposite direction and bring the other tail through.
5. Knot the tails tightly onto the shawl.
6. Hide the knot by tucking the tails back into the flower.

If you prefer to crochet the flowers directly onto the shawl, attach the yarn to the shawl and begin crocheting the flower as instructed above, but directly onto the fabric.

Here are some tips for arranging your flowers:

• Start with a large flower on the edge for a bouquet effect.
• Follow a pattern of post, leaf, post for the flower placement (attaching a flower to a post from the shawl).

Let your creativity shine with your flower colors! Consider these ideas:

• Pastel: Soft and dreamy.
• Vibrant: Bold and cheerful.
• Monochromatic: Elegant and sophisticated.

To ensure symmetry, work from both ends of the shawl towards the center. Mark the center back of the shawl to help with alignment.

If your flower or leaf count seems off, don't worry! You can always adjust the placement slightly to achieve a balanced look.

Place the main flower in the center of the back of the shawl to line up with the seam.

Add extra flowers as needed to balance the design and create visual interest. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and flower sizes!

Once your shawl is complete, you can wear it in a variety of ways:

• Draped over the shoulders
• Wrapped around the neck
• As a decorative piece

To keep your shawl looking its best, follow these care instructions:

• Wash gently by hand or in a machine.
• Use a gentle detergent.
• Lay flat to dry.
• Block the shawl to maintain its shape.

If you're a left-handed crocheter, here's a direct link to the left handed tutorials.

If you enjoyed this project, check out these other crochet ideas:

• Crochet blankets
• Crochet sweaters
• Learn to crochet flowers
• Crochet amigurumi

Subscribe to the Secret Yarnery YouTube channel, and sign up for the newsletter to receive all the latest updates and free patterns. Be sure to share your finished shawls on social media using the #SecretYarnery!

Creating a handmade item with love and care is a truly rewarding experience. I hope this guide has inspired you to crochet your own emotional support bouquet shawl. Embrace your creativity, enjoy the process, and happy crocheting