EASY Crochet Shawl Pattern - The Beached Granny Wrap!
Ready to create an elegant yet simple crochet shawl? Look no further than the Gorgeous Beached Granny Wrap! This project is perfect whether you're picking up a hook for the first time or you're a seasoned crocheter looking for a relaxing one-row repeat. The pattern is written in clear, everyday English, so it's easy to follow—just like I'm sitting there right beside you.
Why You'll Love the Beached Granny Wrap
This crochet shawl is not just beautiful; it's practical, too. It's a one-row repeat that ensures perfect straight edges without any extra effort. It's wide enough to keep you snug but light enough for daily wear. Using just five cakes of yarn, you can adjust the sizing to make it your own using a simple foundation chain calculation.
For this wrap, I chose Cakes Cotton Roy L from Ice Yarns. It's a versatile DK weight yarn (also called 8 ply in Australia). For substitutions, just stick to a size three weight yarn and use the hook size recommended on the label. My finished shawl measures a cozy 23 inches wide by 76 inches long, but I'll show you how to adjust the length for your perfect fit.
To make things easier, I’ve created a catalog of written patterns to accommodate everyone’s needs—grab the pattern there if you'd like to work along with it!
Getting Started: Tools and Materials
Before diving in, let’s talk about what you’ll need:
- Yarn: 500g (or 150m) of DK weight yarn.
- Hook: A comfortable 4.5mm crochet hook.
- Stitch Markers: 27 total, to mark every 12 stitches while chaining.
- Other Supplies: Scissors for trimming yarn, a needle for sewing in ends, and all the enthusiasm!
Feel free to browse shawl-specific patterns for more inspiration.
Starting Your Foundation Chain
This wrap starts with a foundation chain, and your final chain number will depend on the desired size. Each multiple is 6 + 3 for flexibility. Here’s how to plan:
- Chain in sets of 12 until all 27 stitch markers are added to your foundation.
- Add 3 extra chains at the end for your turning chain.
Remember, the chain will shrink once you work into it, so make the starting chain longer than your intended width—around 18 to 24 inches extra.
As an example, for my shawl, I chained 327 stitches total (324 + 3). If this feels overwhelming, you can always make a smaller sample. If you'd like more beginner-friendly projects to warm up, check out these guides.
Row 1: Setting the Foundation
The first row establishes the V-stitches that give this crochet shawl its distinct look. Here's the breakdown:
- Work a double crochet into the fourth chain (where the first stitch marker is placed).
- Skip four chains and work a V-stitch (one double crochet, chain one, one double crochet) into the fifth stitch.
- Continue skipping four chains and making V-stitches into the fifth chain until the end.
At the row's end, work two double crochets into the very last chain.
Pro-Tip: Keep those pretty "Vs" rolled to the side when working into the back loops, but don’t worry if this feels tricky. You can work into the chain any way you feel comfortable!
Row 2: The One-Row Repeat
This is where the magic happens. From here on out, every row is the same, making it so satisfying and easy to crochet.
- Begin with a chain three (counts as your first double crochet) and turn your work.
- Double crochet into the second stitch, then move onto the "trees" (the middle two stitches of each shell/V-stitch from the row before).
- For each tree, add a V-stitch: one double crochet, chain one, and another double crochet.
- Continue working V-stitches into each center pair all the way across.
- End the row with two double crochets—one into the last stitch and another into the turning chain.
Visualize the "trees" as the roadmap for your pattern—they guide the placement of your V-stitches. If you need more guidance along the way, I’ve detailed a variety of crochet shawls to inspire similar techniques!
Troubleshooting Tips
- If the edges seem uneven at first, they’ll straighten out as you continue.
- Make sure to always start and end with two double crochets for clean edges.
- Stitch markers are your best friends—it’s a handy way to ensure stitch accuracy.
Final Row: Polishing Your Crochet Shawl with Single Crochets
Once the wrap reaches your desired length, it's time to finish with a polished edge.
- Chain one and turn.
- Single crochet into each of the first two stitches.
- Chain two, then single crochet into the center of every "tree."
- Repeat by chaining three between each set of single crochets.
- End the row with a single crochet into the last stitch and turning chain.
This final touch keeps the wrap's shape intact while adding a neat, professional edge.
How to Customize Your Beached Granny Wrap
The beauty of this pattern is its simplicity and adaptability. Want to make adjustments? Here’s how:
- Handle leftovers: If you’ve got just a little yarn left, use it for one last finishing row.
- Shrink or Expand: Chain more or fewer starting stitches depending on the size you’re aiming for.
- Play with Color: Try gradient or self-striping yarns for an extra pop.
Have a look at these easy crochet patterns to discover tweaks that fit your style.
Wrapping Up
The Beached Granny Wrap is the perfect combination of elegance and ease, making it a must-try for both beginners and seasoned crocheters alike. With its one-row repeat, adjustable sizing, and straightforward instructions, this shawl will quickly become one of your go-to projects.
Whether you’re crocheting for yourself or loved ones, this pattern lets you create something warm, personal, and oh-so-stylish. Need some more tips, extra patterns, or supplies? Head over to The Secret Yarnery for even more resources!
Have fun crocheting, and don’t forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel for more patterns, tips, and live Q&A sessions. Happy hooking!
Left Handed?
FAQs
1. What skill level is required for this crochet shawl?
The Beached Granny Wrap is beginner-friendly. Its one-row repeat and simple stitches make it accessible, even if you’re new to crochet.
2. How long does it take to complete this shawl?
The time depends on your crochet speed. On average, completing a shawl of this size may take 10–20 hours spread across several sessions.
3. Can I use a different yarn other than DK weight?
Yes! You can substitute with any similar weight yarn (like size 3). Adjust your hook size according to the yarn’s label to maintain proper tension.
4. How do I adjust the size of the shawl?
To customize the size, adapt the foundation chain. Use the formula 6 + 3 (multiples of six, then add three). This works for any width, ensuring the pattern stays intact.
5. What if I don’t have stitch markers?
You don’t need stitch markers, but they can make the foundation chain easier to manage. You can substitute with scraps of yarn or pins to keep track of multiples.
6. Why are my edges uneven?
Uneven edges may happen if you’re not starting or ending rows correctly. Make sure to consistently begin with chain three and double crochet into the turning chain at the end.
7. Can I use self-striping or gradient yarns?
Absolutely! Self-striping and gradient yarns add a beautiful dimension to the shawl without extra effort.
8. What can I do if I run out of yarn before finishing?
Consider shortening the shawl’s length or finishing with a different yarn color. You can also use leftover yarn for an additional border row.
9. How do I care for my finished shawl?
Follow your yarn’s care instructions. Typically, you’ll want to hand wash in cool water and lay flat to dry to maintain the shawl’s shape and texture.
10. Where can I find more patterns like this?
You’ll find a wide range of crochet shawls, wraps, and beginner-friendly patterns at The Secret Yarnery. Check the catalog for more inspiration!
Christa Patel is the creative mind behind The Secret Yarnery, a thriving crochet community that celebrates the joy of handmade crafts. With years of experience in crochet design, Christa specializes in creating simple, easy-to-follow patterns that inspire crocheters of all skill levels. Her passion for crochet shines through her vibrant YouTube channel, where she shares tutorials, tips, and live Q&A sessions with a friendly and approachable teaching style.
Christa is known for her clear, relatable patterns that feel like having a friend guide you every step of the way. Her mission is to make crochet fun and accessible while fostering a supportive community of yarn enthusiasts worldwide.
When she’s not crocheting, you can find Christa exploring new yarns, enjoying her Kenyan home base, or connecting with her followers through her website, The Secret Yarnery. If you’re looking for fresh inspiration and a little crochet magic, Christa’s patterns and tutorials are the perfect place to start. Happy hooking!