Faded Rainbow Shawl

Faded Rainbow Shawl by Eight-by-Six

What is Being Made

The Faded Rainbow Shawl is a triangular crochet shawl designed by Amanda Hurrell of Eight-by-Six. This beginner-friendly project combines vintage aesthetics with modern design sensibilities, creating a versatile accessory suitable for crafters new to crochet. The shawl features a gradient color progression across multiple soft, muted tones that evoke a faded rainbow effect.

Craft and Techniques

This project is worked entirely in crochet, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to develop fundamental skills. The pattern uses straightforward crochet techniques that build confidence while producing an attractive finished garment. The triangular construction is a classic shawl shape that drapes beautifully and works well for various body types and styling preferences.

Stitches Used

The Faded Rainbow Shawl employs basic crochet stitches throughout the pattern, keeping the project accessible for beginners:

• Chain (ch) – the foundation stitch used to begin rows and create openwork sections
• Double crochet (dc) – a fundamental short stitch providing structure
• Half treble (htr) – a medium-height stitch adding texture and drape
• Treble (tr) – a taller stitch creating openness and flow in the fabric
• Slip stitch (ss) – used for joining and finishing

Note: This pattern is written in U.K. crochet terminology, which differs from U.S. terms. Crocheters should verify stitch conversions if working from a different standard.

Materials and Yarn

The Faded Rainbow Shawl is worked in Sirdar Country Classic double knitting (DK) yarn, a blend of 50% wool and 50% acrylic. This fiber content provides warmth, durability, and easy care. The pattern calls for approximately 450g of yarn distributed across nine coordinated colors:

• Dove Grey 862 – 100g
• Light Pink – 50g
• Rose Pink 855 – 50g
• Pink 857 – 50g
• Duck Egg 864 – 50g
• Cream 644 – 50g
• Mint Blue 863 – 50g
• Spring Green 868 – 50g
• Chartreuse 866 – 50g

Tools and Notions

Beyond yarn, the Faded Rainbow Shawl requires a 4mm crochet hook as the primary tool. Additional materials include a knitters darning needle for weaving in ends, sharp scissors, an optional stitch marker for tracking progress, and a tape measure for checking dimensions. The pattern specifies cardboard (approximately 12 x 9 cm) for creating two decorative tassels, and two hand-made ceramic beads (such as those from Cherryhillstudioceramics) for embellishment.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The working tension for this project is 10 stitches over 28 rows = 10 x 10 cm. Maintaining consistent tension ensures the shawl reaches its intended finished size and drape.

Care Instructions

The Faded Rainbow Shawl is machine washable at 30 degrees Celsius, making it practical for regular wear and maintenance. The garment should not be tumble dried or ironed; however, it may be professionally dry cleaned if preferred. The wool-acrylic blend resists pilling while remaining soft and wearable.

Difficulty Level

Rated as beginner, this crochet shawl is ideal for those new to the craft or seeking a straightforward project. The simple stitch combinations and triangular construction provide an achievable goal while teaching essential crochet fundamentals.