Gillian 7033

Gillian Crochet Shawl by Sue Whiting Designs

What Is Being Made

Gillian is a crocheted triangular shawl designed by Sue Whiting Designs. The completed shawl measures approximately 130 cm (51 inches) wide and approximately 60 cm (23½ inches) deep, making it a substantial wrap suitable for layering or draping across the shoulders.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using crochet as the primary construction method. The shawl is worked in a structured pattern that increases on every row, creating the characteristic triangular silhouette typical of modern crochet shawl designs. The pattern is intermediate in difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience beyond basic stitches.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques Used

The Gillian shawl incorporates several fundamental crochet stitches to build its textured appearance:

• Double treble (dtr) – used as a foundational stitch in the construction
• Treble (tr) – featured prominently in the repeating pattern
• Double crochet (dc) – used in the pattern structure
• Chain stitches (ch) – create the open spaces and turning chains throughout the design
• Slip stitch (ss) – used to join rounds and finish edges
• Stem stitch technique – a specialized method where stitches are worked around the stem of previous stitches, adding dimensional texture

Row 4 of the pattern establishes the main repeat, which increases on every subsequent row to create the expanding triangular shape. The pattern uses chain spaces and stitch groupings (such as 5 double trebles into a single stitch) to create visual interest and drape.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Gillian shawl is worked using aran weight yarn, which provides good stitch definition and a balanced drape. The pattern calls for 1 x 200g ball of Caron Cake yarn. The photographed sample is shown in the colorway Strawberry Kiwi 17022. Caron Cake is a variegated, self-striping yarn that creates color variation automatically as you work, eliminating the need for color changes.

The project is worked on a 4.50mm (US size 7) crochet hook, which is the appropriate size for aran weight yarn and ensures proper stitch definition and fabric integrity.

Tension and Gauge

Proper tension is essential for this project. The specified gauge is 2 pattern repeats to 10 cm (approximately 4 inches) and 4 rows to 9 cm (approximately 3½ inches) when measured over the pattern using the 4.50mm crochet hook. Checking tension before beginning is strongly recommended to ensure the finished shawl meets the intended dimensions.

Design Context

The Gillian shawl is designed to coordinate with other garments in Sue Whiting Designs' collection. The pattern notes reference the Dinah sweater, which is available separately, suggesting these pieces are intended as complementary designs within the designer's range.