3 Free Ways You Can Knit Simple Shawls in a Snap

No need to fear shawl knitting… try one of these super-simple free knitting patterns

Creating a hand-knitted shawl for someone in need, or someone going through a struggle, is a beautiful gesture. And maybe you’ve wanted to try knitting a shawl, but thought it was far too complex.

If so, fear no more! Many free knitting patterns for simple shawls exist. And you’ll find 3 of them right here. But “simple” definitely does not mean “boring” with any of these lovely projects!

Tender Shawl

This garter stitch-based shawl will show you that garter stitch doesn’t have to equal “boring.” Try varying yarns. It can be really fun to use yarns of different weights in a single project! Or, try using different colors to create stripes. Because garter stitch creates such a squishy, comforting fabric, your recipient will treasure this shawl!

(The simple stitch pattern also means this will make a terrific prayer shawl.)

Heartfelt Shawl

Here’s another fabulously squishy shawl pattern to try. With a simple knit 3, purl 3 pattern, it creates a deeply ribbed effect. Like the Tender Shawl, this simple stitch pattern can create a wonderful prayer shawl.

Redwood Shawl

Lion Brand originally created the Redwood Shawl for its beautiful Amazing yarn. Sadly, the self-striping Amazing has since been discontinued. (Amazing is still available as a laceweight solid.)

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However, the Redwood Shawl is still a beautifully simple, textured shawl pattern. And Lion Brand has several gorgeous self-striping yarns that you can use to knit it. You can try the subtle colors of Turnstyles. Or how about the aptly-named Shawl in a Cake? For light and bright stripes, you can try Cupcake, or for deep and bold colors, give Mandala a try.

See? You don’t need complex patterns to create beautiful shawls. Any one of these lovely patterns would make great gifts and/or prayer shawls. Pick one and enjoy creating a gorgeous shawl!