Inspired by openwork lace stitches in historic lace shawls, this romantic addition to your evening wear a less labour-intensive version of the look, using hairpin crochet.

It’s very lightweight, and when worked in a smooth, soft yarn, will feel fantastic to wear as an extra layer or to dress-up a simple outfit, making it a versatile summer garment.

The hairpin technique is easy, great fun and fast growing. The strips are created with a basic stitch that has a rhythmic meditative feel and are surprisingly portable for those who love to crochet on the go. The assembly is extremely motivating as the simple strips suddenly turn into beautifully textured pieces of cloth when linked together and the finished shawl almost sneaks up on you!

Sizes: one size with notes to adjust width and length.

Tension:
2 joined Hairpin Strips (see Gauge Instructions) measure 5 in/12.5 cm wide; 24 rows/turns of Hairpin Strip = 4 in/10 cm
Chain Lace pattern: 5 dc and 5 5chsps = 4 in/10 cm; 8 rows = 4 in/10 cm.

Working method: hairpin strips are made for centre and joined, tapered ends are worked along edges, entire piece is edged and tassels added to pointed ends.

Finished measurements
a. Shawl width: 39cm/15 ½ in
b. Shawl length (excluding tassels) 187cm/73 ½ in
c. Tassel length: 12.5 cm/5 in

Requirements
Miss Babs Avon: (85% 19.5 micron merino wool, 15% silk), size 2, 490yds / 448m, 3.5 oz / 100g per skein. Sample in Coastal Breeze (Babette type): 2 skeins
3.5mm (US E/4) hook
Optional: larger hook (any size) or latch hook for joining
2 locking stitch markers
7cm hairpin loom or adjustable loom set to 7cm
20 1m/40” lengths waste yarn/string/cord etc.
15 cm/6” piece of cardboard (for tassels)
Yarn needle and scissors