The number 1 perfect shawl for the changing seasons

It’s that time of year when the weather, along with the temperature, can be unpredictable. It might be warm enough for shorts one minute and a coat the next. Even though the winter coats are being stored away, the temps still get cool enough for a light wrap or shawl.

The Provence Ruffled Shawl is the perfect solution for those cooler temps. Make it with an inexpensive yarn. Or, splurge on an indulgent indie-dyed yarn to add some luxury to your spring wardrobe.

Inspiration for the Provence Ruffled Shawl

The name of the shawl is inspired by the color name of the yarn I chose. Provence, a region of southern France, is home to lush lavender fields. The subtle lavender of the yarn and the gentle ruffle of the shawl are reminiscent of a gentle breeze blowing over those lavender fields.

The meaning behind lavender

Lavender is often known to represent serenity, grace and calmness. Purple, the color of the lavender flower, is the color of royalty and evokes a feeling of elegance and luxury.

The design of the Provence Ruffled Shawl incorporates all of these wonderful adjectives with its gently sloping curve and graceful ruffled edge. The handmade shawl will wrap you in luxury, elegance and calm!

Design for the Provence Ruffled Shawl

In most of my designs, I strive to create a pattern accessible to even the most beginner crocheter among us. This design is no exception, most appropriate for the confident beginner.

Only basic crochet stitches are used – chain, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet. The entire body of the shawl is worked in half double crochet. The gentle sloping edge is created by working all of the increases and decreases along that one edge. And, the ruffle is worked in 3 rows, each one doubling the number of stitches across the row to create the natural ripple effect.

The Yarn

When I originally designed this shawl, I chose Lion Brand’s “Jeans” in Stovepipe. I love this yarn because it isn’t expensive to use, it has a beautiful drape, and it’s oh so soft to the touch. It’s a light worsted weight acrylic, making it a lighter alternative than a true worsted or Aran weight.

I absolutely LOVE “Jeans” because it’s so easy to take care of. Plus, it’s cozy and squishy to the touch. I’ve used this for several other projects and I’ve never been disappointed!

As I was preparing for the Spring Exclusives event, I wanted to try the shawl with a more indulgent yarn. Miss Babs “Yowza” is the perfect choice! This superwash merino DK weight yarn comes in stunning colors. It also has a beautiful drape and is an absolute dream to work with.

“Yowza” is definitely one of my go-to luxury yarns because it is so scrumptious to work with. I discovered Miss Babs at the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival a few years ago and I shop their yarn every chance I get!

The shawl is worked with a US size H-8 (5mm) hook. The only other tools you need are a tapestry needle to weave in just a few ends and a removable stitch marker for marking the edge where the decreases and increases are made.

No matter what yarn you choose, the Provence Ruffled Shawl is the perfect choice whether you’re wearing a comfy pair of jeans or that little black dress.

You’ll love the Provence Ruffled Shawl crochet pattern because:

• the design is beginner friendly.
• you can choose an inexpensive yarn or treat yourself to a bit of luxury.
• the pattern includes written instructions, helpful photos and crochet charts.

I hope you enjoy this beautifully simple, elegant shawl. It’s fun to crochet and is sure to become one of your favorite cool weather pieces!

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