Rua Shawl

Rua Shawl by Carmen Heffernan

What is Being Made

The Rua Shawl is a lace triangle shawl designed by Carmen Heffernan. This crocheted accessory features an asymmetrical triangle construction that begins at one narrow point and increases gradually to form a larger triangular shape. The shawl is worked with rows running on a slant, creating a dynamic and elegant finished piece suitable for layering or wearing as a statement accessory.

Design and Construction Techniques

The Rua Shawl employs a thoughtful construction method that starts from a single point and expands asymmetrically outward. This approach allows for gradual increases in width while maintaining the shawl's triangular silhouette. The design is structured to showcase visual interest through the strategic placement of different stitch patterns throughout the piece.

Stitches Used

This intermediate-level crochet pattern alternates between two primary stitch techniques to create its distinctive appearance:

• Shell stitches — used to form flowing, fan-like sections that contribute to the shawl's lace quality
• Puff stitches — incorporated throughout the design to add dimensional texture and visual depth

The combination of these stitches creates a pattern with considerable interest and textural variation, making the shawl visually engaging from all angles.

Yarn and Materials

The Rua Shawl is worked in 4-ply yarn weight, offering versatility in construction options. The pattern provides flexibility in yarn choices:

• Two-skein colorwork option using the designer's suggested colour sequence, which allows you to gradually introduce a second colour throughout the design and finish with a statement row in the first colour
• Single-colour option requiring approximately 800 meters of yarn for a monochromatic finished piece
• Yarn Cake option, which creates beautiful colour transitions naturally as you work through the cake

The designer notes that subtle tonal variations between two skeins create a sophisticated effect, though contrasting colours can also be used for a bolder aesthetic. A standard crochet hook appropriate for 4-ply yarn weight is required to complete this project.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle stitch combinations and asymmetrical shaping. The alternating stitch pattern and point-to-point construction provide an engaging challenge without requiring advanced techniques.