Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

A SHAWL AND AN IDEA

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broomstick crochet shawl, brown worsted weight, thrift store find

I admit, I did not crochet this lovely shawl. I wish I had. I found it at a thrift store for the princely sum of $1.50! Some crocheter out there crocheted this beauty in broomstick stitch (one I have never tried) and it wound up, completely unused, never worn, never washed, and unloved (formerly) in a thrift store for a price less than the cost of the yarn!

We all complain that non-crocheters don’t properly value our work. Here’s clear evidence of that. I have been known to buy new babyghans at the thrift store to donate to Goodwill and Salvation Army. I figure that someone should benefit from the labor of an unknown crocheter who likely created the lovely babyghan for a specific child whose mom or dad didn’t value the work.

Well, I value this little shawl. It fits me nicely. Plus, I wanted to share a little trick its crocheter may have invented him/herself – a simple little strip of crochet to keep the shawl in place.

broomstick crochet shawl detail, single strip to hold shawl in place

That works better on someone slimmer than I – but it still works for me. So, ‘steal’ this idea if you like. I didn’t come up with it, but I’m willing to share.

I HAVE RECEIVED SEVERAL EMAILS ABOUT THE LITTLE STRIP TO HOLD THE SHAWL IN PLACE.   I PROBABLY SHOULD EXPLAIN A BIT SINCE THE PHOTO IS REALLY NOT TERRIBLY EXPLANATORY.

On one of the front points of the shawl, the crocheter created a strip about 6 inches long – a couple rows of single crochet it what it looks like – that was then sewn inside the shawl.  It seems to work nicely to tuck the other point of the shawl into this little strap to hold the shawl in place, slightly crossed across one’s front.  That’s the tip I wanted to share here.  Hope this explains it better.

Comments

  1. I am looking for a free Broomstick Lace Crochet pattern for a shawl.

    Thank you,
    Mrs. Gail Orban

  3. HI! THat stole is very easy, you begin at top of this. Begin with 200 chain. Then single crochet in all row. Then begin to do broomstick, each five loop. Two row of single crochet. eThe next row dont do the first ant the last broomstick. Repeat the same. You must finish with only one brommstick, it the finish of stole

Have you read?

Lightweight Lacy Crochet Tee Pattern That’s Perfect for Layering

Some crochet garments look beautiful on the hanger but feel awkward to wear. This Lacy Crochet Tee from Lana Grossa is not one of those pieces. It’s light, breathable, and very much designed to be worn — the kind of handmade top that slips easily into your everyday wardrobe without feeling “too precious.”

What immediately stands out is the openness of the stitch pattern. It has that airy, lacy feel that works so well for warmer weather or for layering over a tank or dress. This isn’t a heavy, structured garment; it’s soft and fluid, with just enough texture to make it interesting while still letting the yarn shine.

From a making point of view, this tee is a really enjoyable project if you like crochet that feels calm and rhythmic. The lace pattern keeps your hands engaged without constant counting or frustration, which makes it perfect for evening crochet or quiet weekend sessions. It’s also very satisfying watching the fabric grow — those lacy stitches really show progress quickly.

Skill-wise, this one is best suited to confident beginners moving into intermediate crochet. You don’t need advanced shaping skills, but being comfortable with stitch patterns and keeping even tension will make the process much more enjoyable. If you’ve been wanting to dip your toe into wearable crochet without tackling a full sweater, this is a great place to start.

What I really appreciate about this pattern is how versatile it is. Change the colour and fibre and it can feel casual and beachy or clean and modern. It’s the kind of tee you’ll reach for again and again, especially when you want something handmade that still feels light and effortless.

If you enjoy crochet garments that are wearable, practical, and quietly stylish, this lacy tee is a lovely pattern to have in your collection.