Stitch Soiree Shawl

Stitch Soiree Shawl by Patterns in Wool

Project Overview

The Stitch Soiree Shawl is an intermediate-level crochet shawl pattern designed by Emily Born and published by Patterns in Wool. This downloadable PDF pattern showcases the versatility and visual interest that Tunisian crochet techniques can bring to a classic shawl silhouette. The design incorporates multiple colorwork techniques and stitch variations to create a sophisticated finished piece.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a crochet shawl worked in Tunisian crochet, a hybrid technique that combines elements of both crochet and knitting. The shawl is constructed using six coordinating colors of DK weight yarn, allowing crafters to explore colorwork and create a multi-hued garment with visual depth and dimension.

Materials Required

Yarn: Approximately 870 yards total of DK weight yarn in six colors. The pattern sample uses The Fibre Co. Acadia, which is composed of 60% wool, 20% alpaca, and 20% silk—a luxurious blend that provides warmth, softness, and subtle sheen. The six colors used in the sample are:

• Color A: Thunder Bay
• Color B: Yellow Birch
• Color C: Summer Sweet
• Color D: Blue Heron
• Color E: Orange Storm
• Color F: Poppy

One skein of each color is used, though the full yardage will not be consumed. A yarn needle is needed for finishing.

Tools: One Tunisian crochet hook in size K (6.5mm) with a cable length of at least 36 inches. The longer cable accommodates the width of the shawl as stitches accumulate during construction.

Techniques and Stitches Used

The Stitch Soiree Shawl employs Tunisian crochet, a specialized technique that differs from standard crochet. Tunisian crochet is worked in two passes per row: a forward pass (FwP), where stitches are picked up, and a return pass (RetP), where loops are worked off the hook. This creates a fabric with a distinctly different texture and appearance compared to traditional crochet.

Core Stitches:

• Tunisian Knit Stitch (tks): Creates a knit-like appearance and texture
• Tunisian Simple Stitch (tss): The foundational Tunisian stitch, providing a dense, stable base
• Tunisian Purl Stitch (tps): Adds textural variation and visual interest
• Chain (ch): Used for foundation and shaping
• Slip Stitch (ss): Joins rounds and transitions between sections

Stitch Patterns and Colorwork

Tunisian Tweed: The primary stitch pattern featured in this design is Tunisian Tweed, which creates a woven, textured appearance through strategic color changes. This pattern is worked using Tunisian Simple Stitch with alternating colors. One color is used during the forward pass while a second color is used during the return pass, creating a subtle color blending effect that resembles traditional tweed fabric. For example, Color A is worked for the forward pass, then Color B is worked for the return pass, and this alternation continues throughout the pattern sections.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 4 stitches by 5 rows equaling 1 inch by 1 inch when measured in Tunisian knit stitches. Maintaining accurate gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions and drape of the shawl.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Stitch Soiree Shawl is suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic crochet techniques and are ready to explore Tunisian crochet methods. Familiarity with color changes, managing multiple yarn colors, and understanding forward and return pass mechanics is beneficial for success with this pattern.