Handmade shawls – knitted and crocheted

Molaczka's triangular shawls are knitted and crocheted by hand, mostly from gradient yarn that lets the colours flow smoothly into one another. You'll find close-knit shawls for cooler days and light, openwork ones for spring and summer. Some shawls are ready to ship, and I can make any design to order in your colours – in about 4 weeks. A shawl has no size, so it's a safe choice for a gift.

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What is a handmade triangular shawl?

A handmade triangular shawl is a triangle-shaped piece, knitted or crocheted, worn around the shoulders, at the neck or over a coat. My shawls are made row by row, in one continuous piece, with nothing sewn on. Most are made from gradient yarn, so the colour changes gradually from the centre to the edges.

Knitted or crocheted shawl?

A knitted shawl is made on needles, a crocheted one with a hook. In this category, the knitted shawls usually have a close or patterned stitch (such as a woven check or stripes in different stitches), while the crocheted ones are openwork and lighter. Some combine both techniques: the Sea Shawl has a plain centre and a crocheted lace edging.

Stitch typeExamplesBest for
Close, plainAutumn, Pink & Sapphire, Yellow & Mintcooler days, instead of a scarf
PatternedCheck Violet & Turquoise, Sand (stripes, more openwork towards the edge)everyday wear, with a coat
OpenworkCrocheted Blue & Mint, Openwork Pink & Bluespring, summer, early autumn
With lace edgingSeaas an accent to a simple outfit

How to choose a shawl

When choosing a shawl, the season, colour and how you'll wear it matter most. For cool days, a close stitch that holds in warmth is best; for spring and summer, choose openwork. It's worth matching the colour to the coat or jacket you'll wear it with most often.

  • Warm autumn shades: Autumn (mustard, orange, brown), Sand (brown, caramel, cream).
  • Pastels: Yellow & Mint, Openwork Pink & Blue.
  • Cool, sea-inspired: Blue & Mint, Sea, Check Violet & Turquoise.
  • Bold: Sunset, Pink & Sapphire.

How to wear a triangular shawl

There are three basic ways to wear a triangular shawl: draped over the shoulders like a wrap, folded lengthways and tied at the neck like a neckerchief, or over a coat. Larger shawls, like Openwork Pink & Blue, work well over the shoulders. Shawls with a finer stitch fit under a coat without a bulky-collar effect.

A shawl as a gift

A shawl has no size, so it fits any shoulders and any figure. If you don't know the recipient's taste, choose calm colours that suit most wardrobes, such as Sand. You'll find more tips in my guide on choosing a handmade gift for women and children.

How to wash a yarn shawl

  1. Hand wash in lukewarm water with a mild detergent or wool wash.
  2. Don't rub or wring – press the water out in a towel.
  3. Dry flat, laying the shawl out in its proper shape, away from radiators.
  4. Don't dry on a hanger, as this stretches the edges.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a knitted and a crocheted shawl?

A knitted shawl is made on needles, a crocheted one with a hook. In the Molaczka range, knitted shawls usually have a close or patterned stitch that holds in warmth well, while crocheted ones are openwork and lighter, making them better suited to spring and summer. Some designs combine both techniques – for example, a plain centre with a crocheted lace edging.

How do I wash a handmade shawl?

A handmade shawl should be hand-washed in lukewarm water with a mild detergent, without rubbing or wringing. Press the water out in a towel and dry the shawl flat, laying it out in its proper shape. Don't dry it on a hanger or a radiator, as the edges may stretch.

How to wear a triangular shawl

A triangular shawl is most often worn in three ways: draped over the shoulders like a wrap, folded lengthways and tied at the neck like a neckerchief, or thrown over a coat. Close-knit shawls can replace a scarf in autumn, while openwork ones are perfect for summer evenings and as an accessory for light outfits.

Is a shawl a good gift if I don't know the size?

Yes. A shawl has no size, so it fits any shoulders and any figure, and everyone can wear it in their own way. If you don't know the recipient's taste, choose calm colours such as browns, caramel and cream. If the gift misses the mark, the order can be returned within 14 days without giving a reason.

Which shawl is best for summer?

Openwork shawls are best for summer, as they're lighter and more breathable than close-knit ones. In this category, those are the crocheted Blue & Mint shawl and Openwork Pink & Blue. They're perfect for evenings on the terrace and as an accessory with white or denim.

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