Crocheting a Stacked Shells Shawl

I love the look of a shawl created with waves and motion, but I am often frustrated in my attempts to recreate the sequence of stitches and lines need to produce a precise rhythmic pattern.  Somehow the shapes never seem to line up to become a precise sequence of waves or ripples.  However when I found the free pattern at my local AC Moore store, I felt that I would be able to achieve my style.  The two line repeat enabled me to portray a stacked shell stitch separated by lines of double crochet.  My count was right, and the beautiful pattern lined up correctly.  The Pattern was designed by Premier Yarns to highlight their Everyday DK Colors. The design is also available as a free downloadable pattern (https://www.premier yarns.com/collections/free-patterns/products/stacked-shells) In researching this pattern I was delighted to find that Premier Yarns had created many lovely designs that were easy to access.  As I look for projects to make a dent in my stash, this resource should prove valuable in the future.

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I worked the pattern in a solid ivory worsted with a H hook instead of the three tone double crochet and G hook called for in the pattern. In this way I was able to showcase the stitch details instead of focusing on the colors. Also, the heavier yarn allowed me to create a warmer wrap for the cooler Autumn temperatures. I found that I needed exactly 1 double and 1 single skein of Studio Classic by Nicole (A.C. Moore's house yarn) for a total of 1116 yards to complete this warm comforting wrap.  If I were to add the optional tassels I would have to purchase additional yarn.  However, the shawl is reasonably heavy already, and the tassels might be just too much.  If I crochet the shawl with a lighter yarn as intended by the designer, I would incorporate the accent tassels.  When I fixed a scarf pin to the shawl, I found that the wrap stayed put, and left my hands free.

This is the first time that I started a shawl from the middle and worked toward the outer ends.  When I finished the first side, I had a perfect wavy line.  Then I picked up the stitches on the straight side and continued until I had crocheted an equal number or rows.  When this was done I had a perfect wavy edge on the opposite side as well. I prefer working across with fewer stitches (73) instead of the long way with 200-300 stitches.  Stitch count becomes much easier.    Since both sides had to be the same size and number of rows), I truly engaged in an active game of yarn chicken and completed my shawl with a few yards to spare.

This year I have promised myself that I will actually wear my knitted and crocheted pieces.  I am looking forward to wearing this interesting and stylish shawl as the weather gets cooler.  The neutral ivory color will complement most of the clothes in my wardrobe.