Mary

Mary Lace Weight Crochet Shawl by Julie Blagojevich

Project Overview

Mary is an intermediate-level crochet shawl designed by Julie Blagojevich. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a sophisticated lace weight shawl featuring elegant stitch work and generous dimensions suitable for layering or draping.

Finished Dimensions

The Mary shawl expands significantly during the blocking process. Before blocking, the piece measures 56 inches (142 cm) in wingspan and 27 inches (69 cm) at the widest point. After blocking, the shawl reaches 60.5 inches (154 cm) in wingspan and 30 inches (76 cm) at the widest point, showcasing the transformative effect of proper blocking on lace garments.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

The Mary shawl employs intermediate crochet techniques that create intricate lace patterning. The pattern utilizes several specialized stitches and stitch combinations to achieve its design:

• Double Crochet (dc) – a fundamental stitch forming the base structure
• Single Crochet (sc) – used for shaping and edge definition
• Treble Crochet (tr) – creates taller stitches for openwork sections
• Chain (ch) – forms the foundation and creates spaces within the lace pattern
• Two Double Crochet Cluster (2dcCL) – a custom stitch combination that decreases stitches by working two double crochets together into a single cluster, created by repeating yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, and draw through sequences before finishing with a final yarn over through all loops
• Uneven V-stitch (UV-st) – a decorative stitch combination pairing the two double crochet cluster with chain spaces and double crochets for textured lace effects
• Y-stitch (Y-st) – an additional specialty stitch contributing to the overall lace pattern

Yarn and Materials

The Mary shawl is worked in lace weight yarn, specifically Quince & Co. Piper, a blend of mohair and merino. The pattern requires 3 hanks of yarn, providing 305 yards (279 meters) per 50-gram hank, for a total yardage of approximately 915 yards. The recommended color for this version is Vega. A size D (3.25 mm) crochet hook is used to work the lace weight yarn at the specified gauge.

Additional Supplies

Beyond yarn and hook, the Mary pattern requires a yarn needle for weaving in ends and finishing, as well as blocking tools to properly shape and set the lace work. Blocking is essential for achieving the final dimensions and allowing the lace pattern to open fully.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 23 double crochets and 14 rows measuring 4 inches (10.16 cm) in a square. Achieving proper gauge is critical for obtaining the intended finished dimensions of the shawl.

Pattern Format and Difficulty

Mary is provided as a downloadable PDF pattern and is rated at intermediate difficulty level. Crocheters should be comfortable with fundamental stitches and have experience reading pattern abbreviations and working with specialty stitch combinations before beginning this project. The intermediate classification reflects both the specialized stitches employed and the lace weight yarn, which requires attention to tension and stitch placement.