Winter Dusk

Winter Dusk Crochet Shawl by The Velvet Acorn

What Is Being Made

Winter Dusk is a crochet shawl designed by Heidi May of The Velvet Acorn. This intermediate-level project features a sophisticated colorwork design created using four distinct yarn colors: Ayre, Patagonia, Secret Garden, and Porter. The finished shawl showcases a beautiful interplay of these hues, making it an ideal accessory for cooler seasons.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This shawl is worked using fundamental crochet techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The pattern utilizes color changes throughout the design to create visual interest and depth. The construction method allows for a garment that drapes elegantly while maintaining structural integrity through consistent stitch work and gauge control.

Stitches Used

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, the project is worked at a gauge of approximately 13 stitches and 11.5 rows, indicating the use of standard crochet stitches suitable for shawl construction. The intermediate difficulty level suggests a combination of basic and intermediate-level stitches that create both texture and shaping.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

• Crochet Hook: U.S. H (5.00 mm)
• Yarn: LaBienAmiee Merino Singles, 100% Merino wool
• Yarn Weight: Fingering weight held double strand throughout (or single strand DK weight as an alternative)
• Yardage per Skein: 400 yards (366 meters) per 100g skein
• Color A (Ayre): 380 yards
• Color B (Patagonia): 370 yards
• Color C (Secret Garden): 390 yards
• Color D (Porter): 390 yards
• Total Yardage Required: Approximately 1,530 yards when using fingering weight held double strand

Yarn and Fiber Benefits

The pattern calls for LaBienAmiee Merino Singles, a premium 100% Merino wool yarn. Merino wool is prized for its softness, breathability, and temperature-regulating properties, making it an excellent choice for a winter shawl. The yarn's natural elasticity and drape create a luxurious finished garment that is both comfortable and elegant to wear.

Pattern Flexibility

The Winter Dusk pattern offers crafters flexibility in yarn weight selection. While the primary instructions call for fingering weight yarn held double strand throughout, the pattern notes that it can alternatively be worked in single strand DK weight. Crafters choosing the DK weight option should divide the yardage amounts in half to determine the required yardage for each color.

Gauge Information

The pattern specifies a gauge of approximately 13 stitches and 11.5 rows. Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project to ensure the finished shawl reaches its intended dimensions and drapes correctly. Crocheters should swatch before beginning to verify their personal gauge matches the pattern specifications.