Gaetana

Gaetana Crochet Shawl by Stefanie Bold

What Is Being Made

Gaetana is a Tunisian crochet shawl designed by independent designer Stefanie Bold. This versatile wrap is crafted to any desired size, with the sample measuring 170 x 55 cm (68 x 21.5 inches) before blocking. The shawl features a practical built-in fringe that eliminates the need for finishing work, making it an efficient project for crafters seeking a complete garment without additional assembly steps.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This project employs Tunisian crochet, a hybrid technique that combines elements of traditional crochet and knitting. Tunisian crochet creates a dense, fabric-like texture that works beautifully for shawls and wraps. The pattern utilizes only basic stitches with strategic increases and decreases, making it accessible to beginners while still producing an interesting finished fabric.

A distinctive feature of Gaetana is its color-changing method: the designer changes colors at the end of each forward pass during the Tunisian crochet process. This technique creates a naturally blended, multicolored appearance throughout the shawl without requiring complicated color work or pattern changes. The yarn ends become integrated into the shawl's fringe, eliminating the typical finishing task of weaving in ends.

Stitches Used

• Basic Tunisian crochet stitches
• Increases for shaping
• Decreases for shaping

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Gaetana is designed to be made from 4-ply fingering weight sock yarn, preferably using leftover yarn from other projects. The sample shown weighs approximately 270 grams. The designer recommends having at least 30% more yarn on hand than the minimum required, allowing for creative color selection and experimentation throughout the project. Full balls of yarn can also be used if leftover sock yarn is unavailable.

Hook and Gauge

The pattern calls for a 6mm crochet hook with attached cord. The sample achieves a gauge of 17 stitches and 18 rows when unblocked. However, the pattern is flexible regarding gauge—any gauge will produce satisfactory results as long as the resulting fabric maintains an appropriate drape and is not excessively stiff.

Difficulty Level

Classified as a beginner project, Gaetana is suitable for crocheters new to Tunisian crochet techniques or those seeking a straightforward shawl pattern. The use of only basic stitches and simple shaping makes this an excellent introduction to Tunisian crochet while producing a wearable, colorful finished garment.