Fluttering By

Fluttering By Crochet Shawl by Sandra Paul

What is Being Made

Fluttering By is a delicate openwork lace shawl designed by Sandra Paul and published by Cherry Heart. This triangular shawl features a design inspired by butterflies fluttering and flitting, creating an elegant garment suitable for layering or wearing as a lightweight wrap. The shawl is constructed as a single piece, making it an accessible project for those new to shawl construction despite its intermediate skill level.

Crochet Techniques Used

The shawl employs fundamental crochet techniques executed with precision and attention to detail. The main body is worked flat in rows, progressing from the bottom upward in a back-and-forth motion to build the triangular shape. An open mesh stitch design forms the primary fabric structure, creating the characteristic lacy appearance. After the main section is complete, a decorative border is added by working in the round, which frames the shawl and adds a finished edge. The pattern includes both written directions and crochet charts to guide crafters through the construction process.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The pattern utilizes only basic crochet stitches, making it accessible to intermediate-level crafters. However, the combination and placement of these stitches require careful attention to the written directions to achieve the intended openwork effect. The mesh stitch design is central to creating the lacy, butterfly-inspired aesthetic. Special stitches are noted within the pattern, and a comprehensive stitch abbreviations guide is provided to clarify terminology. A crochet chart is included alongside written directions, allowing crafters to choose their preferred method of following the pattern.

Materials: Yarn and Tools

The pattern calls for approximately 650 yards of lace weight yarn. The recommended yarn is Fyberspates Scrumptious Lace in Dark Teal (colorway 80507), a merino and silk blend that provides the delicate drape and sheen ideal for lace shawls. The pattern includes yarn substitution guidance for crafters who wish to use alternative lace weight options. While specific hook size is not detailed in the provided content, lace weight projects typically require smaller crochet hooks to create the intricate openwork. The pattern includes helpful resources for weaving in ends and links to crochet stitch tutorials to support successful completion.

Pattern Format and Support

This downloadable PDF pattern from Cherry Heart includes comprehensive support materials: full written pattern instructions with stitch abbreviations, helpful instructional photos, detailed diagrams, and crochet charts. The skill level is marked as intermediate, reflecting that while basic stitches are used, experience with lace weight yarn is beneficial. The pattern guide provides clear page references for abbreviations, skill level notes, written directions, diagrams, charts, and shawl photography to guide crafters through each stage of the project.