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Crocheting with Beads: Designing a Shawl that is "Always Adaptable"


Always Adaptable Beaded Crochet Shawl

I love to travel and pack as lightly as possible. Shawls are a staple in my luggage, not just for their practicality, but also for their versatility. They are perfect for that chilly evening while walking on the beach or sailing on a cruise ship. Shawls also add a touch of elegance to formalwear, and admittedly, they're great for covering up my arms when they're less toned than I would like. 😆 🫣


Keeping in line with my desire to pack light, my goal for this project was to design a flexible "Always Adaptable" customizable beaded crochet shawl without pre-stringing beads, reversible (one side with beads and the other side without) with easy-to-remember rows.


Like many of my fellow crocheters and knitters, I have a large, okay, HUGE stash of yarn that I am constantly seeking to use. The design needed to be flexible to make it in multiple yarn weights, textures, and colors using yarn from my stash. I had several gorgeous yarns in my stash but had yet to find a pattern to highlight their beauty adequately. The design had to solve that challenge as well.


Always Adaptable Beaded Crochet Shawl in Aran weight yarn

One final design element had to do with the beads themselves. I decided to do something different, and instead of using round beads only, I tried cube-shaped beads for several of the sample shawls, and the result was stunning!


The name "Always Adaptable" is a testament to the shawl's versatility. Wear the beaded side for formal events and the un-beaded side for casual affairs. This adaptability extends to the shawl's construction, with the flexibility to use different yarn weights and bead types, and the freedom to create it in any size you desire. I have crafted several samples of the shawl, each showcasing its adaptability in various yarn weights and bead types.


Always Adaptable beaded crochet shawl.

Recently, I made and gifted a version of the shawl to my Mom, whose favorite color is red. I surprised her with it on our recent cruise; she loves it! My next venture will be to make the shawl with sequins.


I hope you enjoy making and wearing the Always Adaptable design as much as I do.








YouTube video tutorial: https://youtu.be/6eGO7jHDZbE

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