Nora Sideways Shawl

Nora Sideways Shawl by Truly Crochet

Project Overview

The Nora Sideways Shawl is a beginner-friendly crochet shawl designed by Truly Crochet. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a lightweight, elegant shawl worked in a sideways construction method, making it an accessible project for crocheters new to shawl design. The finished shawl measures approximately 17.5 inches in width and 74.25 inches in length, providing generous coverage for layering or wrapping.

Construction Method and Techniques

This shawl is constructed using a sideways building technique, which means the shawl is worked from one end to the other horizontally rather than from the center outward or top down. This method creates a unique drape and is particularly beginner-friendly because it allows crocheters to easily adjust the final length by simply continuing to work rows until reaching their desired dimensions. The pattern uses American standard crochet terminology throughout.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Nora Sideways Shawl employs fundamental crochet stitches suitable for beginners:

• Chain (Ch) - Used to create the foundation and decorative elements throughout the pattern
• Double Crochet (Dc) - The primary stitch forming the body of the shawl, creating a fabric with good drape and structure

The stitch pattern incorporates repeating sequences of double crochet groups separated by chain-3 spaces, creating an open, lacy texture that allows the yarn to showcase its color while maintaining breathability suitable for a shawl.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Nora Sideways Shawl is designed to work with any worsted weight or aran weight yarn, offering flexibility for yarn substitution. The pattern recommends Cascade 220 yarn in the Holly Hock colorway as the featured option. Approximately 660 yards of yarn is required to complete the shawl at the specified dimensions.

Essential tools and supplies include a 5.5mm crochet hook (US size I/9), scissors for cutting yarn, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, a tape measure for checking dimensions, and blocking boards with blocking pins to finish the shawl professionally.

Difficulty Level and Accessibility

Rated as a beginner project, the Nora Sideways Shawl is ideal for crocheters developing foundational skills. The pattern uses only basic stitches and straightforward construction, making it an excellent choice for those new to shawl making or looking to build confidence with simple, repeatable stitch sequences.