Diagonally Scarf and Shawl

Diagonally Scarf and Shawl by Lindsey Stephens

What Is Being Made

The Diagonally collection features two versatile crochet projects designed by Lindsey Stephens: a lightweight scarf and a complementary shawl. Both pieces showcase diagonal construction and biased striping techniques, making them ideal for crafters seeking dynamic, directional designs. The scarf measures approximately 7.5 inches wide at its widest point and 77.5 inches in length, while the shawl reaches about 16 inches wide and 62.5 inches long. These projects are worked from tip to tip, creating an elegant, flowing finished product suitable for layering or wearing as standalone accessories.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

Both the Diagonally Scarf and Shawl employ tip-to-tip construction, a method that allows crafters to build these pieces diagonally across the fabric rather than in traditional rows. This approach creates natural biased stripes that run diagonally through the finished garment, adding visual interest and movement to the design. The diagonal bias creates a self-shaping effect that enhances drape and wearability.

A distinctive design feature of both projects is the decorative scalloped bottom edge, which adds a refined, finished appearance to the pieces. This scalloped edging provides textural detail and prevents curling, a common concern with lightweight accessories.

Stitches and Stitch Work

While specific stitch names are not detailed in the pattern excerpt, the projects are described as quick to crochet, suggesting the use of straightforward, efficient stitches suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The biased stripe technique and scalloped edging indicate the use of foundational crochet stitches combined with shaping techniques that create the diagonal effect and decorative border.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Both projects are designed to work with sock weight yarn, a lightweight fingering-weight option ideal for accessories requiring drape and portability.

• Scarf yardage requirements: 250 yards each of main color (MC) and contrasting color (CC)
• Shawl yardage requirements: 400 yards main color (MC) and 80 yards each of three contrasting colors (CC1, CC2, CC3)

The sample projects were created using Holiday Yarns Flock Sock, a premium blend composed of 75% superwash merino wool and 25% nylon, offering 400 yards per 100-gram skein. The scarf sample utilized one skein each of Pinot Noir (MC) and Grey (CC), while the shawl sample featured one skein of Pinot Noir (MC) and three mini-skeins from the Loden Gradient Mix (CC1, CC2, CC3). This color combination demonstrates how crafters can personalize their projects through thoughtful color selection.

Tools and Equipment

Both projects require a size 7 (4.5 mm) crochet hook, or an appropriate hook size to achieve the specified gauge. Gauge is essential for obtaining the finished measurements and proper drape of these diagonal-construction pieces.

Design Flexibility and Customization

The Diagonally Scarf and Shawl patterns encourage creative personalization. Crafters can select their own color combinations to suit individual preferences and existing stash yarns. The pattern explicitly suggests using a single skein of fingering weight yarn as the main color while incorporating stripes from coordinating skeins or leftover yarn from previous projects, making these designs economical and sustainable options for fiber artists looking to reduce yarn waste.