Are you a beginner knitter looking for an easy project to get your creative muscles moving? Look no further – the Make It Mine Shawl is here! Whether you’re ready to try out an easy knit triangle shawl or have been knitting for years and need something new and exciting, this pattern has all the necessary tools.
Not only does it provide clear instructions on how to create a beautiful knit masterpiece that will keep you warm all winter long, but its stitch-level versatility also allows customization so that every “Make it Mine Shawl” can be as unique as its maker. So if you’re ready to take on some classic yet modern colorful striped knitting, let’s get started!
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About the Make It Mine Easy Knit Triangle Shawl
The Make it Mine Easy Knit Triangle Shawl is a FREE PATTERN that I designed while traveling to various knitting and crochet shows over several months. I would work on this knit shawl on the plane, in the taxi, during breaks, or even in the booth while selling yarn!
Many of you would stop me and ask about the yarn, about the needles (I used Signature Needles while knitting this), and about the pattern. You would be discouraged when I said I hadn’t written the pattern yet but no worries. Now you can get the Make it Mine Knit Shawl pattern for FREE!
Prefer a Printable, Ad-Free Version of the Pattern?
Love having a clean pattern by your side while you knit? 🧶
The full Make It Mine Easy Knit Triangle Shawl is free to view here on the blog (thank you, ads!), but if you’d rather skip the scrolling and pop-ups, you can grab the ad-free PDF instead.
The paid PDF version includes:
- A printer-friendly layout you can mark up and highlight
- All the pattern details in one place (no jumping around the page)
- Room for your own notes about yarn choices, color combos, and modifications
👉 Add the Make It Mine shawl PDF to your library here:
Beginner Knitter Free Shawl Pattern – Make It Mine Easy Knit Triangle Shawl
If you’re a beginner knitter or have recently completed BiCrafty Bootcamp, congratulations! You’ve come to the perfect place. This pattern is a great introduction to an easy knit triangle shawl pattern I named “Make it Mine.” This pattern is designed specifically with beginners in mind, using simple garter stitch and stockinette stitch patterns, along with brilliant color changes that anyone can master.
No Need to Worry About Gauge
One of the great advantages of knitting shawls, especially for beginners, is that you don’t have to stress too much about gauge. How wonderful is it to embark on a project without having to knit a gauge swatch? With this easy knit triangle shawl pattern, you can let go of any gauge-related concerns and dive right into the fun of knitting.
Here is another pattern you might like if you are a beginner knitter looking for a free shawl pattern that’s easy enough to do while you Netflix and Chill.
The Beauty of Knitting Garter Stitch and Stockinette Stitch
As mentioned earlier, the “Make it Mine” shawl is incredibly beginner-friendly due to its predominant use of garter stitch. Garter stitch involves knitting every row, which makes it a breeze for beginners to grasp. Additionally, the pattern incorporates a touch of stockinette stitch, where you knit on the right side and purl on the wrong side. These simple stitch patterns are the building blocks for this delightful shawl.
Bring in the Brilliant Color Changes and Striped Look
Add an extra element of charm to the shawl, the “Make it Mine” pattern incorporates easy striped color changes. By alternating colors at specific intervals, you create a visually striking shawl that showcases your creativity. These color changes not only make the knitting process enjoyable but also allow you to personalize your shawl with your favorite hues. Maybe you can pick up those mini hanks of yarn you have lying around and play around with them in this shawl!
Listen, if you’re a beginner knitter or have recently completed BiCrafty Bootcamp, the “Make it Mine” easy knit triangle shawl is the perfect project for you. With its easy garter stitch and stockinette stitch patterns, brilliant color changes, and striking striped effects, this shawl will not only enhance your knitting skills but also provide you with a beautiful accessory to cherish. Enjoy the simplicity and versatility of this beginner-friendly shawl pattern as you create your own masterpiece.
Sport Weight Yarn and DK Weight Yarn for an Easy Knit Triangle Shawl
When it comes to knitting a shawl, choosing the right yarn can make all the difference in the final result. I like to use sport weight yarn and DK weight yarn for knit shawl projects because they feel like they work up faster and I like that.
Although the sample shawl was made using a discontinued yarn from Bijou Basin Ranch, fear not! I’ve compiled a list of recommended yarns, including options from KnitPicks and their sister company, WeCrochet, that will be perfect for creating this pattern.
The Beauty of Sport Weight Yarn and DK Weight Yarn
Sport weight yarn and DK weight yarn are both popular choices for knitting shawls. They strike a balance between being lightweight and providing enough warmth to keep you cozy. These yarn weights create a beautiful drape, making them ideal for showcasing the stitch patterns and delicate details of your shawl.
The original sample shawl was crafted using a discontinued yarn from Bijou Basin Ranch. It was a joy to work with, providing a delightful tactile experience both on the needles and when draped around your neck. Unfortunately, Bijou Basin Ranch is no longer in business, but fear not, as there are plenty of alternative yarn options available.
Yarn Substitutes for Bijou Basin Ranch Lhasa Wilderness Pattern
Fortunately, several new and exciting yarns on the market will be perfect for this pattern. KnitPicks and WeCrochet, sister companies renowned for their quality yarns, offer a wide range of options that would look stunning when worked up into this shawl. Consider exploring their selections and choosing a yarn that matches your desired color palette and fiber preferences.
Remember to take note of the suggested gauge and yardage requirements for the pattern when selecting your yarn. This will ensure that your shawl turns out as intended and fits beautifully.
Some Excellent Yarn Choices
- City Tweed DK – is one of my favorite yarns to work with and wear. You can’t go wrong with this 55% Merino Wool, 25% Superfine Alpaca, 20% Donegal Tweed yarn.
- Heatherly Sport – OMG, this yarn is an easy-care yarn with an amazing hand as you crochet, and feels so good to wear. It has just a hint of merino wool and it makes all the difference: 80% Acrylic, 20% Merino Wool
- Upcycle Alpaca Blend Wool – we used this for the Turkey Trot patterns and we all fell in love with it. Maybe you have some in your stash? Pull it out and make this fun pattern. Yarn is 33% Alpaca, 34% Wool, 33% Acrylic.
- Comfy Sport – maybe you don’t want to use a wool yarn, Comfy Sport yarn is a good choice for you with 75% Pima Cotton, 25% Acrylic.
- Brava Sport – looking for the most affordable yarn? Give Brava Sport a try – it’s 100% Premium Acrylic.
- Shine – let’s make things a little more shiny with this beautiful 60% Pima Cotton, 40% Modal natural beech wood fiber yarn.
- Wool of the Andes Sport – rustic and crisp is the look you will get with this 100% Peruvian Highland wool yarn.
Fiber Choices And Swatching
I think it is important to note that the choice of fiber can significantly impact the drape and overall appearance of your knit shawl. Different fibers have varying characteristics, such as elasticity, sheen, and weight, which can influence how the shawl hangs and moves when worn. To ensure the desired drape, it is essential to swatch before starting your project.
Swatching allows you to test different yarns and fibers, observe how they behave with the chosen stitch pattern, and determine if adjustments are needed to achieve the desired effect. Take the time to swatch and find the perfect combination of yarn and fiber that will result in a beautifully draped shawl that you’ll love to wear. It’s simple and easy to swatch a new yarn.
Size Matters: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Easy Knit Triangle Shawl
When it comes to knitting shawls, size plays a crucial role in achieving the desired look and functionality. The size of a shawl determines how it drapes around your shoulders, how much coverage it provides, and how versatile it is for different styling options. Let’s look at the ideal sizes for shawls.
Ideal Sizes for Shawls
Shawls come in various sizes, each offering its own charm and purpose. Here are some common sizes and their characteristics:
- Small Shawls: Small shawls, also known as shawlettes, are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your outfit without overwhelming your frame. They typically measure around 50-60 inches (127-152 cm) in wingspan and 20-24 inches (51-61 cm) in depth. Small shawls are ideal for wearing around your neck as a stylish accessory or draping over your shoulders for a light layer of warmth.
- Medium Shawls: Medium-sized shawls strike a balance between functionality and versatility. They provide ample coverage while still maintaining a manageable size. With a wingspan of approximately 60-70 inches (152-178 cm) and a depth of 24-30 inches (61-76 cm), medium shawls can be wrapped around your shoulders or worn as a statement piece. They offer warmth and comfort without feeling bulky.
- Large Shawls: If you’re looking for a shawl that truly makes a statement, a large shawl is the way to go. These shawls have a wingspan of 70 inches (178 cm) or more, with a depth of 30 inches (76 cm) or greater. Large shawls provide generous coverage and can be styled in a multitude of ways. They are perfect for wrapping around your body for extra warmth or use as a cozy blanket scarf during chilly evenings.
Customizing Size by Repeating Pattern Rows
One of the fantastic aspects of knitting triangle shawls is the flexibility to adjust the size according to your preferences. If you want a larger shawl than the pattern suggests, you can simply repeat the pattern rows until you achieve the desired dimensions (for most patterns). This allows you to tailor the shawl to your specific needs, ensuring it fits perfectly and meets your style requirements.
It’s important to note that adjusting the size of a shawl may require additional yarn. Be mindful of your yarn supply and plan accordingly to avoid running out before completing your project. Also, keep in mind that modifying the size may slightly alter the overall appearance and drape of the shawl, so it’s helpful to knit a gauge swatch and take accurate measurements as you progress.
Remember, knitting a shawl is an opportunity to showcase your creativity and make something truly unique. Whether you prefer a small, medium, or large shawl, the possibilities are endless.
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Where to Wear Your Easy Knit Triangle Shawl: Versatile Style for Any Occasion
A knit shawl is a versatile accessory that can elevate your style and add elegance to any outfit. Discover the various settings and occasions where you can confidently wear your beloved knit shawl. From formal events to casual outings, outdoor adventures to professional settings, and seasonal transitions, explore the versatility of this timeless accessory.
5 places to wear a knit shawl
- Formal Events and Celebrations: A knit shawl is perfect for weddings, galas, and cocktail parties. Choose a luxurious yarn and intricate stitch pattern to complement your evening attire. Drape it gracefully over your shoulders for added sophistication and warmth.
- Casual Outings and Everyday Wear: Don’t limit your knit shawl to special occasions. Wear it for brunch, farmers markets, or running errands. Opt for vibrant colors or subtle textures to elevate your everyday outfits effortlessly.
- Outdoor Adventures and Travel: A knit shawl is both practical and fashionable for outdoor adventures and travel. Stay warm during cool evenings around the campfire or wrap yourself in comfort during long flights or train rides.
- Workplace and Professional Settings: Add a touch of style to your office wardrobe with a knit shawl. Opt for neutral colors or classic patterns to enhance your professional attire with elegance and personality.
- Seasonal Transitions: Navigate seasonal changes with a versatile knit shawl. Choose warm and cozy yarns for colder months and lightweight, breathable fibers for spring and autumn.
Shawls Are Awesome Accessories!
A knit shawl is a timeless accessory that can be worn for various occasions. Find the perfect knit shawl that complements your style and enjoy the endless possibilities of styling it. The Make it Mine knit shawl can be a symbol of creativity and fashion-forward thinking. Embrace the beauty and functionality of your knit shawl and confidently wear it wherever you go.
Quick Tips for Remembering Easy Knit Triangle Shawl Shaping with Yarn Over Increases
Shaping a shawl with yarn over increases can be a delightful experience, but sometimes remembering the specific times to increase for each row can be a challenge. Let me share my personal tip for keeping track of whether you’re on a 2 yarn over row or a 4 yarn over row, and how stitch markers and a simple rule can help you overcome this hurdle with ease.
The challenge of remembering the Increase Rows when working on this easy knit triangle shawl, one of the trickiest aspects, in my humble opinion, is recalling whether you’re on a 2 yarn over row or a 4 yarn over row. These yarn overs serve as the increases that shape the shawl and create its triangular form. Remembering the exact row you’re on can sometimes feel overwhelming.
“Have No Fear” Tip
Use Stitch Markers and the right side / wrong side (RS/WS) Rule to ease this challenge, I have a simple tip that has worked wonders for me. First, make sure to use stitch markers as indicated in the pattern. These markers will be your best friends in keeping track of where the yarn overs should be placed. By placing stitch markers before and after the yarn overs, you create clear visual cues that guide your increases.
Additionally, remember this handy rule: On every Right Side (RS) row, you will only have 2 yarn overs, while on every Wrong Side (WS) row, you will have 4 yarn overs. This rule used in the Make it Mine shawl pattern is a helpful reminder of the increase pattern, and by following it, you will never struggle with the increases again.
Stitch Markers Rock!
By combining the use of stitch markers and following the RS/WS rule, you can confidently tackle each row, knowing exactly where the yarn overs should be placed. This “Have No Fear” tip ensures that you stay on track and maintain the integrity of the shawl’s shape.
See, the process of shaping a shawl with yarn over increases doesn’t have to be intimidating. By implementing my tips of using stitch markers and remembering the RS/WS rule, you can easily navigate the 2 yarn over rows and 4 yarn over rows without confusion. With this newfound confidence, you can focus on enjoying the knitting process and creating a beautifully shaped easy knit triangle shawl.
Make it Mine – Beginner Easy Knit Triangle Shawl Pattern Details
Skill level: Easy
Sizes: One size
Finished Measurements:
Width: 23″ down center (widest point)
Length: 56″ wingspan (longest point)
Yarn weight: CYCA #3 Lt. Sport
Materials
Sample Yarn Has Been Discontinued: Bijou Basin Ranch, “Lhasa Wilderness” (75% yak down and 25% bamboo; 250 yds/ 2.7oz); Color: Continental Blue (A), Dinna Fash (B), and Watercress (C): 1 ball each color
Recommended Yarn Substitutes – make note of the amount used in sample and compare to amount in the yarn put-up in these chosen yarns.
*note: you should not combine the yarns for the shawl, all the yarn used in the shawl should be of the same fiber*
- City Tweed DK – one of my most favorite yarns to work with and wear. You cannot go wrong with this 55% Merino Wool, 25% Superfine Alpaca, 20% Donegal Tweed yarn.
- Heatherly Sport – omg, this yarn is an easy care yarn with amazing hand as you crochet and feels so good to wear. It has just a hint of merino wool and it makes all the difference: 80% Acrylic, 20% Merino Wool
- Upcycle Alpaca Blend Wool – we used this for the Turkey Trot patterns and we all fell in love with it. Maybe you have some in your stash? Pull it out and make this fun pattern. Yarn is 33% Alpaca, 34% Wool, 33% Acrylic.
Knitting Needles: U.S. size 8 (5mm) 40″ (100cm) circular needles or size required for gauge
Notions:
Gauge
17 sts = 4″ (10cm) in Garter st (knit every row) after blocking
Abbreviations (in order of appearance)
Wyif—with yarn in front
Sl—slip
pwise—purlwise
pm—place marker
m—marker
yo—yarn over
k—knit
p—purl
st(s)—stitch(es)
LH—left hand
k2tog—knit two together
tbl—through the back loop
Video Tutorials
- How to do Traditional Garter Tab Cast On >> Click Here for Video <<
- How to add a Lifeline >> Click Here for Video <<
- How to Bury in Ends >> Click Here for Video <<
- How to Tink >> Click Here for Video <<
Shawl Construction & Colorwork Notes
- Color Changes: The color pattern for this shawl is created by changing yarn colors every 2 rows until Color C is introduced.
- Up to that point, you do not need to cut the yarn when switching colors. Simply leave the unused color hanging at the edge of your work. After completing the first slip stitch of the new color, you can carry the previous color up the edge and pick it up again when needed.
- Up to that point, you do not need to cut the yarn when switching colors. Simply leave the unused color hanging at the edge of your work. After completing the first slip stitch of the new color, you can carry the previous color up the edge and pick it up again when needed.
- Later Color Sequence Change: When the pattern shifts to 4 rows of Color C followed by 2 rows each of Colors A and B, you should cut the yarn and join the new color as indicated.
- Increases: A yarn over increase is worked at the outside edge on every row.
- Garter Stitch Sections: The first 4 stitches, last 4 stitches, and the center 2 stitches are worked in garter stitch throughout the entire shawl.
- Tighter Yarn Overs (Optional): To make the yarn overs neater and tighter, I knit them through the back loop on the following row.
- Alternative Center Increase (Optional): If you prefer a firmer center spine, you may work yarn overs only at the outside edge of every row and use a Make One (M1) increase at the center instead. This is completely optional and simply a suggestion.
- Construction: The shawl is worked back and forth in rows. A circular needle is used to comfortably hold the full number of stitches as the shawl grows; the work is not joined in the round.
EASY KNIT TRIANGLE SHAWL | MAKE IT MINE KNIT SHAWL PATTERN
Beginning Tab
Using A, cast on 4 sts, and knit 9 rows.
Turn work 90 degrees, pick up 4 st from edge, turn
work 90 degrees, pick up 4 sts from cast on edge–12 sts.
Shawl Section 1
Row 1 (RS): Knit.
Row 2 (WS): Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k3, pm, yo, k1, yo,
pm, k2, pm, yo, k1, yo, pm, k4– 16 sts including yo’s.
Change to B.
Row 3: Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo,
knit to last marker, yo, slip marker, knit to end—18 sts.
Row 4: Wyif sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo, knit
to marker, yo, slip marker, k2, slip marker, yo, knit to marker, yo, slip
marker, k4—22 sts including yo’s.
Continue in established pattern repeating rows 3 and
4 at the same time change colors
every 2 rows 21 times more—148 sts (69 sts between markers 1 and 2 also 3 and
4).
Shawl Section 2
Change to B.
Row 1 (RS): : Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker
yo, knit to last marker, yo, slip marker, knit to end—2 sts increased.
Row 2 (WS): Wyif sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo,
purl to marker, yo, slip marker, k2, slip marker, yo, purl to marker, yo, slip
marker, k4—4 sts increased.
Change to A.
Row 3: : Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo,
knit to last marker, yo, slip marker, knit to end—2 sts increased.
Row 4: Wyif sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo, knit
to marker, yo, slip marker, k2, slip marker, yo, knit to marker, yo, slip
marker, k4—4 sts increased.
Continue in established pattern repeating rows 1-4 at the same time change colors every 2
rows 4 times more.
Shawl Section 3
Change to B.
Row 1: Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo,
knit to last marker, yo, slip marker, knit to end—2 sts increased.
Row 2: Wyif sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo, knit
to marker, yo, slip marker, k2, slip marker, yo, knit to marker, yo, slip
marker, k4—4 sts increased.
Change to C
Row 3 (RS): Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker
yo, knit to last marker, yo, slip marker, knit to end—2 stitches increased.
Row 4 (WS): Wyif sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo,
purl to marker, yo, slip marker, k2, slip marker, yo, purl to marker, yo, slip
marker, k4—4 sts increased.
Row 5: Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo,
knit to last marker, yo, slip marker, knit to end—2 sts increased.
Row 6: Wyif sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo, purl
to marker, yo, slip marker, k2, slip marker, yo, purl to marker, yo, slip
marker, k4—4 sts increased.
Change to A
Row 7: Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo,
knit to last marker, yo, slip marker, knit to end—2 sts increased.
Row 8: Wyif sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo, knit
to marker, yo, slip marker, k2, slip marker, yo, knit to marker, yo, slip
marker, k4—4 sts increased.
Continue in established pattern repeating rows 1-8 at the same time change colors as
indicated 4 more times.
Shawl Section 4
Change to B
Row 1: Wyif, sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo,
knit to last marker, yo, slip marker, knit to end—2 sts increased.
Row 2: Wyif sl 1 pwise, k to m, slip marker yo, knit
to marker, yo, slip marker, k2, slip marker, yo, knit to marker, yo, slip
marker, k4—4 sts increased.
Change to C
Rows 3 and 4: Wyif, sl 1 pwise, knit to end.
Bind off
Row 1: K2, * Transfer the 2 worked sts to the LH needle, and k2tog tbl, k1* repeat from * to end.
Finishing
Weave in all ends.
Wash and block piece to measurements.
Blocking makes a huge difference in the finished look! If you’d like help deciding between wet blocking and steam blocking—especially for superwash yarn—I’ve got you covered here:
👉 https://marlybird.com/blog/steam-blocking-vs-wet-blocking-superwash-yarn-prism-make-along-part-10/
More Knit Shawl Patterns You’ll Love 🧶
If this triangle has you inspired, explore even more styles in my complete Knit Shawl Patterns Guide.
From crescent shawls to mosaic designs to asymmetrical wraps, there’s a shawl for every mood and skill level.
Be sure to check out the other free shawl patterns on MarlyBird.com
❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Make It Mine Shawl really for beginners?
Yes, genuinely! This is one of the most beginner-friendly shawl patterns out there. It uses just two stitch patterns… garter stitch (knit every row) and stockinette (knit on right side, purl on wrong side). If you can knit and purl, you can make this shawl. There’s no lace, no cables, no complex shaping. Marly designed it as her travel knitting project and it’s perfect for knitters who’ve done scarves and dishcloths and are ready for “what’s next.”
Do I need to worry about gauge for this shawl?
Nope! That’s one of the best things about shawl patterns. Since it doesn’t need to fit a body measurement, gauge is totally flexible. Your shawl might be slightly bigger or smaller depending on your yarn and tension, but it’ll still be beautiful and wearable either way. Skip the gauge swatch and dive right in. It’s genuinely freeing.
How do the color stripes work in this pattern?
The stripes are easy and really fun to customize! You change colors at natural points in the pattern… the color changes line up with the stitch pattern sections. You can use two colors for bold graphic stripes, three or four for a more complex fade, or even pull from your stash and use lots of different leftover yarns for a scrappy rainbow effect. Every “Make It Mine” shawl looks different based on the maker’s color choices… which is the whole point of the name!
What yarn weight and needle size should I use?
The pattern was originally made in sport or DK weight yarn… the lighter weight gives the shawl a beautiful drape. You can use either sport (weight #2) or DK (weight #3). For DK weight, a US size 4 or 5 needle is a common starting point. For sport weight, try a US size 3 or 4. Since gauge doesn’t matter critically here, just pick a needle size that gives you a fabric you like… not too stiff, not too floppy. A little drape is what you’re going for.
Can I make this shawl bigger or smaller?
Yes! The shawl grows with every row, so you just keep knitting until it’s the size you want. Want a bigger shawl? Keep going. Want something smaller and quicker? Stop sooner. You’ll use more or less yarn accordingly but the pattern doesn’t change. The only thing to keep in mind is ending on a complete stripe or section so your color transitions look intentional rather than abandoned mid-stripe.
