Pattern Spotlight: The VL Shawl (Crochet)
The VL Shawl is the largest canvas in the VL Crochet Collection, and it uses all that space to let the fiber combination do something genuinely striking. The suri in the upper portion of the shawl has a lightness and halo that photograph beautifully and move in a way all their own, but once the DK variegated section begins at the hem, the whole character of the piece shifts into something more textured and richer in depth, anchored in a way the suri never is. That contrast between the two sections is what makes this shawl worth making.
Shawls are one of the most versatile accessories you can crochet, and this one is no exception. You can drape it over your shoulders, wrap it around your neck like a scarf, or fold and pin it into almost any configuration you like, and its generous dimensions give you plenty of fabric to work with however you choose to style it.
About the Design
The VL Shawl pairs suri held double in the upper section with DK yarn at the hem. Simple stitches throughout keep the focus on the fiber and the color story rather than on technical complexity, which makes the shawl approachable for adventurous beginners while still keeping experienced makers engaged with a project they can work on without constantly checking the pattern. It is rated advanced beginner and is part of the VL Crochet Collection.
Because a variegated DK reads differently depending on the specific skein you choose, every finished VL Shawl looks a little different from the next, and that unpredictability is one of the most enjoyable parts of making it.
Let's Talk Suri
Suri alpaca gets its silky, flowing quality from a long, smooth fiber structure. Unlike wool, it has no crimp, and that is exactly what gives suri projects their distinctive drape and shine. The halo it produces is soft and airy rather than fuzzy, so the finished fabric catches the light instead of absorbing it.
Holding the suri double in the upper section gives the fabric enough body to hold its shape as a shawl while preserving that characteristic drape. The switch to DK at the hem changes how the fabric feels both to make and to wear, and because that change shows clearly in the finished piece, the design reads as intentional rather than incidental. Blocking makes a real difference here, so give the shawl a good soak when you finish and let it dry flat. You will be surprised how much it opens up.
Why You'll Love It
Two distinct fiber sections that create a beautiful visual contrast
Simple stitches that let the fiber and colorway take center stage
Generous dimensions for a shawl with real versatility
Advanced beginner level, accessible for a wide range of skill levels
Every version looks different depending on your variegated DK choice
Coordinates with the full VL Crochet Collection
Yarn Suggestions
Note: some of these may be affiliate links.
$$$ Bad Sheep Yarn - DK or Sparkle DK Coupon Code = VIOLET10
Make Your Own VL Shawl
Tag me @violet.loops and use #VLShawl when you share yours. I can't wait to see your VL Shawls!
