Free Broomstick Lace Crochet Shawl Pattern – Shimmer Shawl by Marly Bird
Some crochet projects just feel special the moment you start them—and this is one of those. ✨
The Shimmer Shawl is light, airy, and full of beautiful texture, using broomstick lace to create an open, flowing fabric that looks far more complicated than it actually is. If you’ve ever wanted a crochet shawl that feels elegant but still approachable, this one checks all the boxes.
Quick Pattern Overview
The Shimmer Shawl is a triangular crochet shawl that blends broomstick lace and lattice lace for a soft, drapey finish that shines in lightweight yarns.
In this post you’ll learn:
- What broomstick lace really is (and why it’s easier than it looks)
- Why this shawl is ideal for confident beginners
- How yarn choice affects drape and openness
- How to wear and style a lightweight crochet wrap year-round
What Is Broomstick Lace?
Broomstick lace is a crochet technique that uses an oversized knitting needle (or dowel) to create elongated loops, which are then worked into grouped stitches. The result?
✨ Big, airy texture
✨ Lightweight fabric
✨ Eye-catching stitch definition
Despite how dramatic it looks, broomstick lace follows a very repeatable rhythm—making it an excellent confidence-booster once you see it in action.
What You Will Love About This Pattern
- Free crochet shawl pattern on MarlyBird.com
- Uses broomstick lace without complicated shaping
- Lightweight triangle shawl with beautiful drape
- Great for confident beginners ready to try lace
- Open, breathable fabric—perfect for layering
- Optional ad-free PDF available for purchase
✨ Designer Tip: If you’ve ever felt nervous about lace, this is a fantastic first step because the stitch structure is forgiving and rhythmic.
“This shawl is proof that crochet lace can feel relaxed, modern, and totally wearable.”
Design, Fit, and Construction Details
The Shimmer Shawl is worked as a triangle, increasing gradually to create a generous wingspan without bulk. The stitch patterns alternate between broomstick lace and lattice lace, giving the fabric movement and visual interest without stiffness.
Because the fabric is intentionally open, the shawl blocks beautifully and gains even more drape once finished.
Yarn Choices & Substitutions
The original sample was made with a bulky mohair-blend yarn, which creates that soft halo and light-catching texture. Mohair blends are especially lovely for broomstick lace because they:
- Fill in open stitches without heaviness
- Add softness and visual depth
- Create warmth without weight
You can substitute with:
- Lightweight bulky yarns with good drape
- Blown yarns
- Soft acrylic or wool blends for easier care
The key is choosing a yarn that moves, not one that feels stiff.
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Special Features
- Dramatic openwork without complex charts
- Uses a US 50 (25mm) knitting needle for loops
- Lace that looks intricate but works up quickly
- Blocks into a stunning, flowing silhouette
Shimmer Broomstick Lace Crochet Shawl
by Marly Bird
MEASUREMENTS
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Shawl is 62″ [157.5 cm] wide by 31″ [79 cm] deep.
GAUGE
2 1/2 reps = 4″ (10 cm) in Broomstick Lace
2 1/2 reps = 4″ (10 cm) in Lattice Lace; use any size hook to obtain the gauge.
MATERIALS
YARN
Note: Sample yarn has been discontinued.
Kollage Yarns, Delightful (68% Kid Mohair, 22% Viscose, 10% Polyester, 100 yds / 91 m, 1.9 oz / 53 g, CYCA #5 bulky): Crimson Fire, 5 hanks
HOOK
Size G/7 (4.5 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
NOTIONS
Stitch markers
Tapestry needle
US 50 (25 mm) knitting needle, for broomstick
ABBREVIATIONS
CH – chain(s)
DC – double crochet
HDC – half double crochet
REP – repeat
SC – single crochet
SP(s) – space(s)
SK – skip
ST(s) – stitch(es)
TCH – turning chain
TR – treble crochet
WS – wrong side
YO – yarn over
STITCH PATTERNS
BROOMSTICK LACE (multiple of 5 sts)
Row 1 (RS): Pull up loop in each stitch across, moving each loop to broomstick holder (larger knitting needle), ch 1 to lock last st, turn.
Row 2: Ch 1, *insert hook into next 5 loops at the same time, 5 sc in group; rep from * to end, turn.
Rep rows 1 and 2 for Broomstick Lace.
LATTICE LACE (multiple of 5 sts)
Row 1 (RS): *Ch 6, sk 4 sts, sc in next st; rep from * to end, turn.
Row 2: *Ch 6, sc in next ch-6 sp; rep from * to end, ch 2, tr in 1st ch of beg ch-6 of previous row, turn.
Row 3: *Ch 6, sc in next ch-6 sp; rep from * to end, turn.
Rep rows 2 and 3 only for Lattice Lace.
CROCHET STITCH DIAGRAMS
VIDEO TUTORIALS
The following video tutorials are recommended to help you feel confident as you work through this pattern:
- Crochet Diagram Tips >> https://youtu.be/fJvO9WwGAUU <<
Learn how to read and follow crochet diagrams, including understanding stitch symbols and row direction. - Broomstick Lace >> https://youtu.be/cUYwe8wgiUc?si=M7FKFbS0NlalZmsB <<
A step-by-step walkthrough of broomstick lace, including pulling up loops, working grouped stitches, and maintaining even tension. - How to Bury Ends >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_NBGUKjO-E <<
Tips for weaving in ends neatly and securely so your finished shawl looks polished from every angle.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Before diving into the Shimmer Shawl, take a moment to get comfortable with the techniques used in this design. This project combines broomstick lace and lattice lace to create an open, airy fabric with beautiful drape. If broomstick lace is new to you, don’t worry — it’s rhythmic once you get the hang of it, and the results are absolutely worth it.
This shawl is worked flat from the center outward, increasing symmetrically to form a triangular shape. Reading through the entire pattern before you start will help you understand how the stitch patterns and increase rows work together as the shawl grows.
Be sure to gather all tools before starting, especially the large knitting needle used as the broomstick. Consistent tension and careful loop placement will make your finished shawl look its best.
NOTES
• Take gauge after blocking. Gauge for this shawl should be measured after washing and blocking your swatch. Broomstick lace and lattice lace both relax significantly once blocked.
• Use stitch markers generously. Stitch markers are extremely helpful for identifying center loops or chain spaces during increase rows.
• Focus on even loop height. Consistent loop height on broomstick rows creates cleaner lace and easier stitch placement.
• Read increase rows carefully. Taking a moment to visualize increase placement can prevent missed stitches.
• Blocking is not optional. Wet blocking opens the lace and allows the shawl to reach full measurements.
• Yarn substitution tips. Choose yarns with good drape and softness; stiff yarns may not showcase the lace well.
• Trust the process. The shawl may look uneven while working — blocking is where the magic happens.
SHIMMER BROOMSTICK LACE CROCHET SHAWL PATTERN
Row 1 (WS): Ch 16, hdc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn—15 hdc.
Row 2 (RS): Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—15 loops on needle.
Row 3: Ch 1, insert hook in first 5 loops at the same time, 10 sc in group, insert hook in next 5 loops at the same time, 15 sc in group, insert hook in last 5 loops at the same time, 10 sc in group, turn—35 sc.
Row 4: Ch 1, sc in each sc to end, turn.
Row 5: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—35 loops on needle.
Row 6 (Broomstick inc row): Mark center 5 loops, ch 1, insert hook in first 5 loops at the same time, 10 sc in group, *insert hook in next 5 loops at the same time, 5 sc in group; rep from * to center 5 loops, insert hook in center 5 loops at the same time, 15 sc in group, work from * to * to last 5 loops, insert hook in last 5 loops at the same time, 10 sc in group, remove markers, turn—55 sc.
Row 7: Ch 1, sc in each sc to end, turn.
Row 8: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—55 loops on needle.
Row 9: Work a Broomstick inc row as before—75 sc.
Rows 10–12: Work rows 1–3 of Lattice Lace.
Row 13 (Lattice inc row): Mark center ch-6 sp, ch 1, 10 sc in first ch-6 sp, 5 sc in each ch-6 sp to center sp, 15 sc in center sp, 5 sc in each ch-6 sp to last sp, 10 sc in last ch-6 sp, remove marker, turn—95 sc.
Row 14: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—95 loops on needle.
Row 15: Work a Broomstick inc row as before—115 sc.
Row 16: Ch 1, sc in each sc to end, turn.
Row 17: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—115 loops on needle.
Row 18: Work a Broomstick inc row as before—135 sc.
Row 19: Ch 1, sc in each sc to end, turn.
Row 20: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—135 loops on needle.
Row 21: Work a Broomstick inc row as before—155 sc.
Rows 22–24: Work rows 1–3 of Lattice Lace.
Row 25: Work a Lattice inc row as before—175 sc.
Row 26: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—175 loops on needle.
Row 27: Work a Broomstick inc row as before—195 sc.
Row 28: Ch 1, sc in each sc to end, turn.
Row 29: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—195 loops on needle.
Row 30: Work a Broomstick inc row as before—215 sc.
Row 31: Ch 1, sc in each sc to end, turn.
Row 32: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—215 loops on needle.
Row 33: Work a Broomstick inc row as before—235 sc.
Rows 34–36: Work rows 1–3 of Lattice Lace.
Row 37: Work a Lattice inc row as before—255 sc.
Row 38: Work row 1 of Broomstick Lace—255 loops on needle.
Row 39: Work a Broomstick inc row as before—275 sc.
Fasten off.
FINISHING
Wet block piece to measurements.
Weave in all loose ends.
Styling & Wearability
This shawl shines as:
- A lightweight wrap for cool evenings
- A spring or fall layering piece
- A statement accessory over simple outfits
Because it’s breathable, it works beautifully indoors and out—no overheating required.
More Patterns You’ll Love
- https://marlybird.com/blog/free-crochet-shawl-patterns/
- https://marlybird.com/blog/broomstick-lace-crochet-tutorial/
Want to Build More Crochet Confidence?
If you love learning new techniques like broomstick lace, you’ll also enjoy Marly’s skill-building crochet resources designed to help you understand why stitches work—not just how to follow them.
FAQ
Is this a good first broomstick lace project?
Yes! The repeats are predictable and forgiving, making it ideal for learning the technique.
Is this shawl heavy?
Not at all. The open lace structure keeps it light and airy.
Is there a printable version?
Yes—an optional ad-free PDF is available for purchase.
Is broomstick lace hard for beginners?
Broomstick lace looks dramatic, but it’s very approachable once you understand the rhythm. This pattern is best for confident beginners who are comfortable with basic crochet stitches and ready to try something new.
What kind of yarn works best for broomstick lace shawls?
Soft yarns with drape work best, especially mohair blends or lightweight bulky yarns that fill open stitches without feeling heavy.
Final Thoughts
The Shimmer Shawl is one of those patterns that feels impressive without being intimidating—and those are my favorites. 💖
If you make one, I’d love to see your color choice.
Save this for later, share it with your BiCrafty Bestie, and don’t forget to tag #mmmdi and #marlybird!
❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird
Categories: Crochet, Free Patterns, Marly Bird Premium Patterns, Our Free Patterns, Pattern, Uncategorized
