Puffs and Crosses Lace Shawl

Puffs and Crosses Lace Shawl by Exquisite Crochet UK

Project Overview

The Puffs and Crosses Lace Shawl is a delicate crocheted accessory designed by Exquisite Crochet UK and published in Happily Hooked Magazine in May 2020 (Light and Lacy issue). This elegant shawl combines decorative puff stitches with geometric cross motifs to create an intricate lace pattern. The finished design measures approximately 168 x 42 cm (66.15 x 16.5 inches) when unblocked, making it a versatile wrap suitable for layering on chilly spring mornings or evening outings.

Craft and Techniques

This project is created using the crochet technique with a 4.0 mm (G/6) crochet hook. The shawl incorporates several foundational and intermediate crochet skills, making it suitable for beginner-level crocheters. Blocking is an essential finishing technique used to achieve the final dimensions and enhance the lace pattern definition.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch) – foundational stitch for creating the base structure
• Foundation single crochet stitch (fsc) – creates a stable foundation row while building height simultaneously
• Single crochet stitch (sc) – provides structure and density in certain sections
• Puff stitch (puff) – creates the characteristic puffy texture elements throughout the design
• Puff v-stitch (puff v-st) – a variation combining puff stitches with v-stitch shaping for decorative cross motifs
• Double crochet stitch (dc) – used for gauge measurement and structural elements

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This shawl pattern calls for 5 skeins of Sheepjes Organicon Premium Blend yarn in the colorway Soft Blossom #206. The yarn is composed of 100% cotton in a super fine weight classification (4-ply), with each 50 g (1.8 oz) skein providing 170 meters (186 yards) of working length. Cotton yarn is an excellent choice for lace shawls, offering breathability and a refined drape ideal for spring and summer wear.

Gauge and Finished Measurements

The blocked gauge is 16 double crochet stitches by 8 rows over a 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 inch) swatch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions of 168 x 42 cm (66.15 x 16.5 inches) after blocking.

Tools Required

• Crochet hook size 4.0 mm (G/6)
• Tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends
• Scissors for cutting yarn

Skill Level

Rated as a beginner-level project, the Puffs and Crosses Lace Shawl is accessible to crocheters new to the craft while offering opportunities to practice essential techniques. The combination of basic stitches with decorative puff stitch variations provides a satisfying introduction to lace shawl construction.