Pattern Description:
A simple, beginner-friendly rectangular crochet shawl featuring a textured stitch pattern that creates a cozy and stylish accessory.
Perfect for layering, this shawl is lightweight yet warm, making it ideal for all seasons and a quick, satisfying crochet project.
Materials Needed & Measurements:
- Yarn: Any medium-weight (worsted weight) yarn
- Yarn Weight: Medium (Worsted, Category 4)
- Hook: 5.0 mm (H-8) crochet hook or size needed to achieve gauge
- Notions: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors
- Measurements: Approximately 18 inches wide and 60 inches long (can be adjusted by adding more rows)
Stitches & Abbreviations Used:
- ch = chain
- dc = double crochet
- sc = single crochet
- sk = skip
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- rep = repeat
Instructions for Making the Cedar Arches Easy Rectangular Crochet Shawl Pattern:
Creating the Cedar Arches rectangular crochet shawl pattern features a simple, repetitive stitch design that produces a textured, arch-like motif, adding visual interest and cozy warmth.
Below is a detailed guide to help you through every step:
Getting Started: Foundation Chain and Setup
Start by choosing your yarn and hook. This shawl uses medium-weight (worsted) yarn and a 5.0 mm (H-8) crochet hook to create a fabric that is soft but structured. Before you begin, make sure your tension matches the pattern gauge for the best fit and drape.
- Step 1: Make a foundation chain (ch) of 41 stitches or any multiple of 10 plus 1 to adjust width as desired.
- Step 2: Work a double crochet (dc) in the 4th ch from the hook (the skipped 3 chains count as the first dc). Then dc in each ch across the row. Turn your work.
This foundation row creates the base for your arches.
Row 1: Creating the First Arch Pattern
The arch effect begins from this row, achieved through alternating double crochets and chain spaces.
- Step 1: Ch 3 (counts as the first dc).
- Step 2: Skip 2 sts, dc in next st, ch 2, sk 2 sts, dc in next 5 sts – repeat from to until the last st.
- Step 3: Dc in the last st. Turn your work.
This row forms the arch “holes” with the chain-2 spaces, setting the pattern for the rest of the shawl.
Row 2: Building the Texture
The second row builds on the arches with single crochet (sc) stitches to add texture and stability.
- Step 1: Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch).
- Step 2: Sc in first dc.
- Step 3: Ch 2, sk the ch-2 space from the previous row, sc in next dc – repeat from to across.
- Step 4: End with a sc in the top of the turning ch-3. Turn.
This row creates a lovely contrast with the chain spaces from the previous row, adding dimension.
Row 3: Repeating the Arch Motif
Row 3 echoes Row 1 to reinforce the arch pattern.
- Step 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc).
- Step 2: Skip 2 sts, dc in next st, ch 2, sk 2 sts, dc in next 5 sts – repeat across.
- Step 3: Dc in last st. Turn.
At this point, you will notice the distinctive arches starting to form clearly.
Rows 4 and Beyond: Continue Pattern
From Row 4 onward, you will repeat Rows 2 and 3 alternately until the shawl reaches your desired length.
- Even-numbered rows: Repeat Row 2 (sc and ch 2 spaces)
- Odd-numbered rows: Repeat Row 3 (dc and ch 2 arches)
This repetition builds a consistent, airy texture that balances warmth with breathability.
Adjusting Size and Length
One of the best features of this shawl is its flexibility in size. To make your shawl wider or narrower, simply adjust the foundation chain in multiples of 10 + 1. To lengthen it, continue working the pattern rows until you reach the desired length – typically around 60 inches for a full rectangular shawl.
Finishing Your Shawl
When your shawl is the right size, finish off your work:
- Step 1: After your last row, cut the yarn leaving a 6-inch tail.
- Step 2: Pull the tail through the last loop to secure.
- Step 3: Use a yarn needle to weave in all loose ends neatly along the edges and within the stitches to prevent unraveling.
For an extra polished look, you may add a simple border of single crochet stitches all around the shawl edges. This helps stabilize the edges and frames the arches beautifully.
Tips for Success
- Keep your tension even: This ensures the arches stay consistent in size and shape throughout.
- Use stitch markers if needed: Mark the beginning and end of repeats to avoid confusion.
- Try blocking: Once finished, gently block your shawl to open up the arch spaces and even out the shape.
This easy rectangular shawl pattern is a rewarding project that balances simplicity with elegance.
With just a few rows repeated, you can create a cozy, stylish accessory that’s perfect for gifting or personal use. Happy crocheting.
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