Marigold

Marigold Crochet Shawl by Jan Power

What Is Being Made

Marigold is a slightly asymmetrical crochet shawl designed to showcase gradient yarn colorways. The finished shawl measures 50 inches (127 cm) along its longest edge, making it a substantial accessory piece. The design is intentionally crafted to highlight the shifting hues of hand-dyed yarns, though it works equally well in solid or tonal colorways.

Craft and Technique Overview

This is a crochet project worked with tall stitches that create dramatic shell motifs. The shell stitch construction is the defining feature of the design, with these raised, dimensional stitches allowing color gradients to display beautifully across the fabric. The asymmetrical shaping adds visual interest and modern appeal to the traditional shawl silhouette.

Stitches Used

Marigold employs several key crochet stitches to achieve its distinctive appearance:

• Triple Treble (trtr): The primary tall stitch used throughout, created by yarning round the hook three times before inserting into the stitch. These tall stitches form the dramatic shells that are central to the design.
• Shell Stitches: Three shell variations are used—the BegShell (beginning shell), EndShell (ending shell), and standard Shell. Each consists of groups of triple trebles separated by chain-2 spaces, creating the signature shell effect.
• Chain (ch): Used for foundation chains and to create spaces between shell elements, including ch-5 loops that form part of the pattern repeat structure.
• Double Crochet (dc): Used as supporting stitches within the pattern structure.
• Slip Stitch (sl st): Used to join rounds and transition between sections.

Pattern Repeats and Gauge

The pattern is based on repeating shell units combined with chain-space loops. Gauge is measured as 2 pattern repeats (consisting of 2 shells plus a chain-5 loop) equaling 5¼ inches (13 cm). Working to the correct gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished size and drape of the shawl.

Materials and Yarn Weight

Marigold is designed for 4-ply weight yarn, specifically tested with Bilum Hand Dyed Yarns Slika Fingering. This yarn blend contains 80% merino wool and 20% silk, providing both warmth and a subtle sheen. The yardage requirement is 100 grams, equivalent to 437 yards (400 metres). The silk content adds elegance and helps the stitches drape gracefully, while the merino provides structure and softness. A 4.00 mm crochet hook is recommended, though you may adjust to achieve the correct gauge for your specific yarn.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty. While the stitches themselves—particularly the triple treble—require some experience to execute consistently, the pattern structure is straightforward. Crocheters comfortable with tall stitches and basic pattern repeats will find this an accessible and rewarding project. The one-skein format makes it ideal for using a single special yarn without requiring a large yarn stash.

Format

Marigold is available as a downloadable PDF pattern from Jan Power Designs, allowing you to begin your project immediately upon purchase.