Penelope Sideways Shawl

Penelope Sideways Shawl by Truly Crochet

Project Overview

The Penelope Sideways Shawl is a beginner-friendly crochet design created by Truly Crochet. This downloadable PDF pattern produces a finished shawl measuring approximately 18.5 inches wide by 71.75 inches long after blocking, making it an elegant accessory suitable for various occasions and styling options.

Construction Method

This shawl is constructed using a sideways building technique, which means the piece is worked horizontally rather than from top to bottom or bottom to top. This construction method allows for intuitive shaping and makes it easy to adjust the length of the finished garment by adding or removing rows as desired.

Crochet Stitches and Techniques

The Penelope Sideways Shawl primarily utilizes fundamental crochet stitches appropriate for beginner-level crafters:

• Chain Stitch (Ch) – Used to create the foundation and turning chains throughout the pattern
• Double Crochet (Dc) – The main stitch that forms the fabric of the shawl, creating a structured yet drape-friendly textile

The pattern is written using American standard crochet terminology and includes a photo tutorial starting on page 5 of the PDF to guide crafters through each step.

Materials and Tools Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for Cascade 220 Aran yarn in the Walnut Heather colorway, requiring approximately 660 yards total. Crafters working with aran weight yarn will achieve the specified gauge and finished dimensions. For those preferring thinner yarn weights such as 4ply or DK weight, the pattern provides alternative starting chain suggestions (Ch123, Ch147, or Ch167), though these variations have not been tested for exact sizing.

Tools and Notions:

• I/5.5mm crochet hook
• Scissors for yarn cutting
• Darning needle for weaving in ends
• Tape measure for checking dimensions
• Blocking boards and blocking pins for finishing

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 double crochets plus 8 rows equaling approximately 4 inches when worked with the recommended aran weight yarn and I/5.5mm hook. Achieving this gauge is important for obtaining the intended finished measurements of 18.5 inches wide by 71.75 inches long after blocking.

Skill Level

Rated as a beginner difficulty project, the Penelope Sideways Shawl is accessible to crocheters new to the craft. The pattern uses only basic stitches and straightforward construction, making it an excellent choice for those building foundational crochet skills while creating a wearable, finished garment.