MAKE AN OLD-FASHIONED TRIANGLE SHAWL

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After just a few rows, you will be able to distinguish a small triangle. You'll marvel as you watch the transformation.

Reading Patterns

During your crochet future, you'll often see the word gauge. Gauge means to do a certain number of stitches per inch so your piece turns out even and the right size. This is important when making a piece of clothing fit. I won't use a gauge since the shawl will drape gracefully regardless of size. I don't want you to strugle trying to make your stitches conform to a gauge. It's more important that you relax, concentrate on the way you hold your hook, and maintain the tension of the yarn sliding through your fingers. Keep the stitches even; this makes your work smooth and creates a professional look.

When you first see the pattern, it will probably look like Morse code. It's a crocheter's shorthand, so don't be disheartened. After working a few rows, you'll "break the code," and soon it'll become second nature. Note: To learn how to crochet left-handed, read McCall's Crochet Treasury (Simon & Schuster, 1968). When you do pick up your hook, make the beginning chain, and start the pattern, don't be concerned if your work doesn't look like a shawl immediately. Also, know that tearing out your work is a natural part of crocheting. It's easy to get discouraged, but give yourself some time; after a few rows, you'll begin to distinguish a small triangle. You'll marvel as you watch your lifeless yarn transform into a work of art.

Now, let's settle into our favorite chairs, hook and yarn in hand. As time passes and your hook flies, you will stop to adjust the work on your lap and realize how cozy your unfinished shawl has kept you. It has grown twice what it was when you sat down, and seeing it now, spread over your lap, you feel pleased with your night's work.

Directions For Shawl:

Materials:
12-oz. 4-ply, worsted weight yarn in desired colors
Size H aluminum crochet hook
Notes:
The word turn just means that you turn your work and go back over the stitches you just worked. The chain 3 at the end of each row is also known as the turning chain. Always remember to count the chain 3 turning chain as your first double crochet of your next row. Example: At the end of the row, ch 3 (turning chain). Turn your work so that you are working over the row you just finished. Do 2 dc in the same space as ch 3 (turning ch). Now you have (ch 3, dc, dc) which equals 3 dc. This produces an increase so that your shawl grows wider with each row.

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