How to Crochet a Lightweight Shawl for Spring & Summer
I love a good crochet shawl and how effortlessly they can help you transition between temperatures and seasons. One minute, you’re wrapping yourself up Nicole Kidman style on a crisp porch morning, coffee in hand. The next, you’re draping it over your shoulders as you watch the sun set on a summer evening.
Shawls are the perfect mix of practical and stylish—and depending on the yarn and stitch, they can be airy, breathable, and light enough for warm weather.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make a spring-friendly crochet shawl, from choosing the right yarn and matching it with the perfect stitch pattern.
💡 Want to jump straight into a pattern? Check out my Boysenberry Shawl! But feel free to switch up the yarn to make it more suitable for the warmer weather!
Choosing the Right Yarn for a Spring & Summer Shawl
When it comes to warm-weather crochet, choosing the right yarn makes all the difference. The right fiber can mean the difference between a light, breezy wrap or something that feels heavy and stiff. You’ll want a yarn that is:
- Breathable (so you don’t overheat)
- Soft & comfortable against the skin
- Drapey, so it moves beautifully when worn
Best Fibers for Spring & Summer Shawls
Here are my top picks for lightweight, warm-weather-friendly yarns:
Cotton & cotton blends – Soft, breathable, and holds its shape well. Cotton is a go-to fiber for summer because it absorbs moisture and keeps you cool—perfect for layering without overheating.
Bamboo blends – Silky, drapey, and ultra-lightweight. If you want a shawl that flows beautifully and feels buttery soft, bamboo is a dream to work with. It’s naturally moisture-wicking, so it’s great for humid weather!
Linen blends – Crisp, airy, and softens with wear. Linen starts off structured but after washing and wearing, it develops the most gorgeous relaxed texture—ideal for a rustic, boho-style shawl.
👉 Where to buy? I’ve linked some of my favorite lightweight yarns in my Amazon shop. But be sure to shop around for the best prices! Sometimes the best deals are in-store with a coupon or on good-ole Amazon, so make sure you do your own research!
Best Yarn Weights for a Breezy Shawl
Yarn weight plays a big role in how airy or cozy your shawl will be.
- Fingering & Sport Weight yarn – Best for lacework. If you want something delicate and lightweight, go with these!
- DK Weight yarn – A great in-between option. It has a bit more structure while still feeling breathable and drapey.
- Worsted Weight yarn – The thickest I’d recommend for a warm-weather shawl. It’ll still work, but I’d stick with lacy stitches to keep it from feeling too heavy.
How Much Yarn Do You Need for a Shawl?
The amount of yarn you’ll need depends on the size and stitch pattern you choose. Here’s a general guideline:
- Small shawl (scarf-like wrap): 400-600 yards
- Medium-sized shawl: 600-800 yards
- Large, oversized shawl: 900-1200 yards
Choosing the Right Hook Size
The right hook size depends on:
- The yarn weight you’re using
- The stitch pattern
- The level of drape you want
👉 If you’re following a pattern: Use the recommended hook size and check your gauge before starting.
👉 If you’re making it up as you go: Start with the hook size listed on your yarn label, then size up 1-2 sizes if you want a looser, airier stitch.
💡 Pro Tip: A bigger hook = more drape and movement in your shawl! If you want a floaty, open fabric, try using a larger hook than usual.
Best Shawl Shapes for Spring & Summer
Different shapes create different looks and drape. Here are the most popular ones:
- Triangle Shawls – Classic & beginner-friendly. Starts small and grows outward, making it super customizable in size.
- Rectangular Wraps – Easiest for beginners since they require no shaping. Just crochet one big rectangle!
- Asymmetrical Shawls – A modern, stylish twist! They look complex but are surprisingly easy to make.
- Circular or Crescent Shawls – Super flowy & elegant. These drape beautifully around the shoulders and feel extra luxurious.
💡 Looking for a pattern? My Shimmer Crochet Wrap is a great beginner-friendly option!
Best Stitches & Techniques for an Airy, Breathable Shawl
The right stitch can make all the difference in how lightweight and breathable your shawl feels.
Top Stitches for Spring & Summer Shawls
(A quick Google or YouTube Search will take you to many tutorials featuring these stitches!)
- V-Stitch – Creates a lacy, open fabric without being too complicated.
- Filet Crochet – A delicate, lace-like pattern that looks intricate but is actually super easy.
- Mesh Stitch – One of the fastest stitches to work up—perfect for a light, breezy shawl!
- Shell Stitch – Adds a pretty, decorative touch while still keeping the fabric open.
💡 Making a lacy stitch? Be sure to block your finished shawl in order to open up the stitches even more! Don’t skip!!
How to Style a Crochet Shawl for Warm Weather
Shawls aren’t just for winter! Here’s how to wear them when the weather warms up:
- Casual Summer Look – Wear it as a lightweight scarf or draped over a strappy dress.
- Beach Cover-Up – Throw it over a swimsuit for an effortless, boho vibe.
- Evening Layering – Perfect for cool summer nights when you need just a little extra warmth.
- Boho Festival Look – Pair with a flowy dress & sandals for the ultimate boho-chic aesthetic.
💡 Tag me on Instagram if you make a spring shawl! I’d love to see how you style it.
Finishing Touches: Blocking & Edging for the Best Look
Blocking your shawl is a game-changer. It takes your project from “just off the hook” to store-bought quality.
How to Block Your Crochet Shawl:
- Soak it in lukewarm water (add a drop of wool wash if needed).
- Lay it flat on blocking mats and gently stretch it into shape.
- Pin it in place using T-pins to open up the stitches.
- Let it air dry completely before unpinning.
For lacy shawls: Blocking opens up the stitches and makes them more delicate.
For cotton or linen shawls: Steam blocking is a great option!
My Favorite Crochet Shawl Patterns
Want to start crocheting right now? Here are some of my favorite lightweight shawl patterns:
🌿 Shimmer Crochet Wrap – A crochet rectangle shawl that requires no increasing/decreasing—perfect for beginners!
🌸 Watercolor Shawl – Light, airy, and beginner-friendly! An easy shawl pattern where the body is made up of entirely double crochet stitches and then finished off with an i-cord edge.
☀️ Boysenberry Shawl – A simple pattern that works up into a triangle. It can be adapted with a lighter-weight yarn to make it even more breathable.
💡 Not sure where to start? Try my Shimmer Crochet Wrap for a no-stress, easy shawl project.
Before you go…
Crocheting a lightweight shawl is the perfect warm-weather project—it’s relaxing, stylish, and totally customizable. Whether you’re making your first shawl or adding another to your handmade wardrobe, have fun with it! Play around with different stitches, yarns, and shapes until you find your perfect go-to wrap.
💛 I’d love to hear from you—what’s your favorite warm-weather crochet project? Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram!
📌 Don’t forget to pin this guide on Pinterest for later!
