Borlotto Bean Shawl

Borlotto Bean Shawl by Vicki Roberts

What is Being Made

The Borlotto Bean Shawl is a crocheted shawl designed by Vicki Roberts, measuring 42 x 111 cm when finished. Despite being titled as a scarf in the pattern documentation, this is a versatile rectangular wrap suitable for draping as a shawl or wearing as an elongated scarf. The design uses a sophisticated color combination of two complementary acrylic yarns to create visual interest and texture throughout the piece.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level crochet project employs fundamental crochet techniques combined with a specialty stitch technique. The pattern utilizes basic crochet foundations including chain stitches for foundation work and slip stitches for joining. The construction method allows crafters to build the shawl systematically, with tension requirements of 10cm equaling 7 rows and 18 double crochet stitches, ensuring proper drape and finished dimensions.

Specialty Stitches Used

The defining feature of this design is the Mini Bean Stitch (mbs), which creates textured, dimensional elements throughout the shawl. The mini bean stitch is worked by inserting the hook into a designated stitch or space, yarning over and pulling through, then yarning over again and inserting the hook into the same location to build up a small bobble or bean-like texture. This stitch is combined with standard crochet stitches including:

• Double Crochet (DC) – the primary structural stitch providing fabric density and drape
• Chain (Ch) – used for foundation and spacing elements
• Slip Stitch (SS) – for joining and finishing
• Yarn Over (YO) – fundamental technique used throughout all stitches

Yarn and Materials

The Borlotto Bean Shawl is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn, specifically using two coordinating colors from the Cygnet Boho range. Yarn A is Cygnet Boho Spirit in Chic (colorway 6385), while Yarn B is Cygnet Boho in Misty. Both yarns are 100% premium acrylic, with each ball weighing 100g and providing approximately 240 meters of yardage. One ball of each color is required to complete the project. The pattern calls for a 4.5mm crochet hook, which is the standard size for working with DK weight yarn and achieving the specified tension. Only basic equipment beyond the hook is needed—scissors for finishing yarn ends.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate project, the Borlotto Bean Shawl is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their stitch repertoire. The mini bean stitch, while not overly complex, requires attention to technique and consistency to create even, uniform texture. The straightforward rectangular construction makes this pattern accessible while the specialty stitch adds visual sophistication and skill-building opportunity.