Free Crochet Shawl Pattern – Boothbay Harbor Shawl by Marly Bird
Meet the Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl
Looking for a cozy, wear-everywhere crochet shawl that feels a little bit fancy but is still totally doable on the couch with your favorite show on?
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Say hello to the Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl.
This triangular shawl has gorgeous texture, gentle shaping for a swoopy drape, and a generous wingspan that makes it perfect for wrapping, layering, and snuggling. It’s been a fan favorite in pattern form for years, and now you can follow it free here on the blog with the option to upgrade to an ad-free PDF.
Think of it as that “grab it on your way out the door” piece – great with jeans and a tee, over a simple dress, or tossed over your shoulders for chilly offices, waiting rooms, and movie nights.
Why You’ll Love This Crochet Shawl Pattern
Let’s talk about why Boothbay Harbor has been such a beloved shawl for so long:
- Triangular shawl shape – easy to wear and style
- Beautiful textured stitch pattern – uses accessible stitches arranged in a really pretty way
- Relaxed, generous size – lots of coverage without feeling heavy
- Advanced beginner friendly – if you can double crochet and follow a simple repeat, you’re in great shape
- Seamless construction – worked back and forth in rows, no seaming required
- Perfect “next step” project – ideal if you’re ready to move beyond basic scarves and granny squares
You’ll also learn (or practice) some really useful skills like foundation single crochet, crossed double crochet, and reading a crochet diagram.
Yarn and Substitutions for the Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl
The original sample was worked in an acrylic that gave the shawl that dreamy drape and warmth we love.
From the pattern:
- Yarn: Red Heart Colorscapes
- Content: 100% Manufactured Fibers – Acrylic
- Approx. 187 yards (171 meters) and 100 grams (3.53 ounces)
That yarn can be harder to find now, but the good news? This shawl works beautifully in many different heavy worsted weight yarns. You’re mostly watching for:
- A yarn that feels good on your neck and shoulders
- A fiber that blocks well (wool, wool blends, and even some acrylics with steam blocking)
- A nice drape once it’s blocked
Here are some great alternatives if you want ideas:
- Knit Picks Swish Worsted (soft superwash wool) – https://tidd.ly/4qL6Zxt
- Knit Picks Wool of the Andes (classic wool with great stitch definition) – https://tidd.ly/4ogN7QN
- Knit Picks Brava Worsted (budget-friendly acrylic that still blocks nicely with steam) – https://tidd.ly/3Jj67zn
- Universal Yarns Deluxe Worsted (non-superwash wool, lovely for cozy shawls) – https://tidd.ly/3JGXmPK
- Premier Yarns Everyday (soft anti-pilling acrylic, great for easy care) – https://tidd.ly/3Z7N52T
- Berroco Ultra Alpaca Chunky(I know it isn’t worsted but I think it is a better sub for the original yarn) https://tidd.ly/4qpDbWn
Because this is a shawl and not a fitted sweater, gauge is important for the fabric, but not as critical for exact “size”. If your gauge is a little looser or tighter, your shawl will just be a bit bigger or smaller. Just make sure you have enough yarn if your gauge runs loose.
How Big Is the Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl?
Check the pattern section for the exact measurements, but in general you can expect:
- A generous wingspan – long enough to wrap around your shoulders and still have nice front drape
- A cozy depth (center back height) that keeps your back warm
If you like an extra-long shawl or want more depth, you can:
- Work with a slightly heavier yarn (still in the #4 range)
- Use a larger hook for more drape (just know you may need more yarn)
Skill Level and Techniques Used
The Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl is labeled Advanced Beginner – which I like to translate as: “You’ve got the basics, and you’re ready to spice things up just a little.”
You should be comfortable with: Common Crochet Stitches
- Chain (ch)
- Double crochet (dc)
- Skipping stitches and working into spaces
- Counting stitches and repeats
- Working back and forth in rows
In this pattern you’ll also meet:
- Fsc – Foundation Single Crochet
- Double Crochet Cluster (3 dc-cl)
- Working from a Crochet Diagram/Chart
If you’re still newer to crochet and want to grow your skills with support, check out the Learn to Knit & Crochet resources here:
https://marlybird.com/learn-to-knit-crochet/
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Helpful Crochet Tutorials for This Shawl
Inside the pattern PDF, I point you to specific tutorials for the special stitches and finishing. Here are the types of videos you’ll want handy:
- How to Foundation Single Crochet (Fsc) – great for getting a stretchy, comfortable starting edge
- How to Read Crochet Diagrams – super helpful if you’re more visual and want to follow the stitch chart
- How to Bury/Weave in Ends – especially useful if you’re changing colors or just like a neat finish
- How to Block Crochet Projects – to get that gorgeous final drape
You can find lots of these tutorials on my site and YouTube channel, starting from the “Learn to Knit & Crochet” page and the “Video Tutorials” links here.
Choosing a Hook and Getting a Fabric You Love
The pattern uses a US J/10 (6 mm) crochet hook (or size needed to obtain gauge).
Here’s how I recommend approaching gauge for this shawl:
- Work a small swatch in the main stitch pattern from the instructions.
- Block your swatch the same way you’ll block the shawl (more on that below).
- Check:
- Do you like the drape?
- Does the fabric feel too stiff, too open, or just right?
If the fabric feels stiff and “board-like,” try a larger hook.
If it feels too open and holey, go down a hook size.
Remember, with shawls it’s less about hitting numbers exactly and more about getting a fabric that feels beautiful to wear.
How to Style Your Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl
One of my favorite things about this design is how many ways you can wear it. Here are a few ideas:
- Classic wrap: Drape it evenly around your shoulders and let the ends hang down in front.
- Front knot: Wrap it around your shoulders and gently tie the ends in front for extra security.
- Bandana style: Fold it lengthwise, wrap around your neck, and let the ends hang in front.
- Office-ready: Layer it over a simple tee and jeans or over a long-sleeve top with trousers for a cozy but polished look.
- Evening out: Pair it with a little black dress or a simple solid dress – the texture becomes the star of the outfit.
You’ll probably find your own favorite way to wear it once you’ve had it on a few times. This is one of those pieces that quickly becomes part of your “personal uniform.”
Blocking Your Crochet Shawl for the Best Drape
This shawl really comes to life after blocking. That’s when the stitches relax, the shape evens out, and the fabric gets that swooshy drape we all love.
If you’ve never blocked a project before or you’re not sure whether to steam or wet block, I’ve got you covered. I have a detailed post that walks you through:
Steam Blocking vs Wet Blocking (and when to use each)
https://marlybird.com/blog/steam-blocking-vs-wet-blocking-superwash-yarn-prism-make-along-part-10/
Quick tips:
- For wool or wool blends, wet blocking usually gives the nicest drape.
- Gently pin your shawl to shape; don’t stretch it out aggressively unless you want a lacier look.
- Let it dry fully before unpinning so your beautiful shape “sets.”
Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl – Free Pattern
SKILL LEVEL
Adventurous Beginner
MEASUREMENTS
Finished Measurements
Shawl is 68.5” [174 cm] wide by 37” [94 cm] deep, without edging.
Gauge
5 ch-5 sps x 5 rows in stitch pattern = 6” [15 cm] x 3.25” [8.5 cm]; use any size hook to obtain the gauge.
MATERIALS
Yarn
Red Heart, Colorscape (100% acrylic, 187 yds / 171 m, 3.5 oz/ 100 g, CYCA# 4 worsted): Rome, 5 balls
Hook
Size I/9 (5.5 mm)
Notions
ABBREVIATIONS
- Ch – Chain(s)
- Dc – Double Crochet
- RS – Right Side
- Sc – Single Crochet
- Sp(s) – Space(s)
- St(s) – Stitch(es)
- Tch – Turning Chain
- Tr – Treble Crochet
- WS – Wrong Side
- Yo – yarn over
SPECIAL STITCHES
⭐️Foundation Single Crochet (fsc):
First fsc: Ch 2, insert hook into 2nd ch from hook, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 1 loop on hook (forming a chain), yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook (forming the single crochet)
Next fsc: Insert hook into base of previous stitch (in the “chain” space), yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 1 loop on hook (forming a chain), yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook (forming the next single crochet). Repeat directions for desired amount of sts.
⭐️Double Crochet Cluster (3 dc-cl): *Yarn over hook, insert hook into indicated st, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook; repeat from * in same st, yarn over and draw through all 4 loops on hook.
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I’m thrilled to share this amazing pattern with you, many patterns on my blog are absolutely free! I kindly request that you don’t copy and paste or distribute this pattern. Prefer an ad-free experience? Buy a digital PDF pattern for a small fee from one of my online stores for a seamless crafting journey.
I appreciate your support and readership. You are the reason I can keep doing what I love and sharing it with others. So, thank you from the bottom of my yarn-loving heart! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links at no cost to you.
DIAGRAMS
Click the images to get a larger print view.
NOTES
- Project is worked on its longest side first and each row will shorten there after, creating a triangle.
BOOTHBAY HARBOR CROCHET SHAWL PATTERN
BODY
Row 1: (RS) 229 fsc, turn.
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first sc, *ch 5, skip 3 sc, sc in next sc; repeat from * across to last 4 sc, ch 2, skip 3 sc, tr in last sc (counts as a ch-5 sp), turn– 57 ch-5 sps.
Row 3: Ch 1, sc around tr (in space made by tr and ch 2), [ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp] 3 times, *8 dc in next ch-5 sp, sc in next ch-5 sp, [ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp] twice; repeat from * across to last ch-5 sps, ch 2, tr in last ch-5 sp (counts as ch-5 sp throughout) , turn- 13 dc groups + 30 ch-5 sps.
Row 4: Ch 1, sc around tr, [ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp] twice, *ch 4, skip next dc, dc in next 6 dc, skip last dc, ch 4, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp; repeat from *across to last ch-5 sp, ch 2, tr in last ch-5 sp, turn– 13 dc groups + 16 ch-5 sps + 26 ch-4 sps.
Row 5: Ch 1, sc around tr, *[ch 5, sc in next ch-sp] twice, ch 3, skip next dc, dc in next 4 dc, skip last dc, ch 3, sc in next ch-sp; repeat from * across to last 2 ch-5 sps, ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 2, tr in last ch-5 sp, turn– 13 dc groups + 28 ch-5 sps + 26 ch-3 sps.
Row 6: Ch 1, sc around tr, [ch 5, sc in next ch-sp] twice, *ch 3, skip next dc, dc in next 2 dc, skip last dc, ch 3, sc in next ch-sp**, [ch 5, sc in next ch-sp] 3 times; repeat from *across to last 2 ch-5 sps ending at **, ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 2, tr in last ch-5 sp, turn– 13 dc groups + 40 ch-5 sps + 26 ch-3 sps.
Row 7: Ch 1, sc around tr, ch 5, sc in next ch-sp, ch 5, *sc between next 2 dc, ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp, 8 dc in next ch-5 sp, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 5; repeat from *across to last 2 dc, sc between last 2 dc, ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 2, tr in last ch-5 sp, turn– 12 dc groups + 28 ch-5 sps
Rows 8-51: Repeat Rows 4-7
Rows 52-54: Repeat Rows 4-6
Row 55: Ch 1, sc around tr, ch 5, sc in next ch-sp, ch 5, sc between next 2 dc, ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 2, tr in last ch-5 sp, turn– 4 ch-5 sps
Row 56: Ch 1, sc around tr, [ch 5, sc in next ch-sp] twice, ch 2, tr in last ch-5 sp, turn– 3 ch-5 sps
Row 57: Ch 1, sc around tr, ch 5, sc in next ch-sp, ch 2, tr in last ch-5 sp, turn– 2 ch-5 sps
Row 58: Ch 1, sc around tr, ch 5, sc in last ch-5 sp, fasten off– 1 ch-5 sp.
FINISHING
Edging
Join yarn to foundation edge on RS with sl st.
Row 1 (RS): Ch 7, sc in same st as join, *ch 5, sc in next ch-sp on edge; repeat from * across to center ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 5, sc) in center ch-5 sp, [ch 5, sc in next ch-sp on edge] repeat to opposite foundation edge, ch 5, (sc, ch 4, tr) in last st on foundation, turn – 115 ch-5 sps + 1 ch-7 sp + 1 ch-4 sp.
Row 2: Ch 7, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in first ch-sp, *sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in next ch-5 sp; repeat from * across to 1 ch-5 sp before center ch-sp, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 5, sc) in center ch-5 sp, [ch 5, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in next ch-5 sp, sc in next ch-5 sp] repeat across to last ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in last ch-5 sp, (sc, 4, tr) in last ch-7, turn -59 ch-5 sps + 58 ch-3 sps + 1 ch-7 sp + 1 ch-4 sp.
Row 3: Ch 7, sc in first ch-sp, *ch 5, sc in next ch-3 sp, ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp; repeat from * across to center ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 5, sc) in center ch-5 sp, [ch 5, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 5, sc in next ch-3 sp] repeat across to last ch-sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 4, tr) in last ch-sp, turn- 119 ch-5 sps + 1 ch-7 sp + 1 ch-4 sp.
Row 4: Ch 7, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in first ch-sp, *sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in next ch-5 sp; repeat from * across to 1 ch-5 sp before center ch-sp, sc in next ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 5, sc) in center ch-5 sp, [ch 5, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in next ch-5 sp, sc in next ch-5 sp] repeat across to last ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in last ch-5 sp, (sc, 4, tr) in last ch-7, turn -61 ch-5 sps + 60 ch-3 sps + 1 ch-7 sp + 1 ch-4 sp.
Row 5: Ch 7, (sc, ch 3, sc) in first ch-sp, *ch 7, skip next ch-3 sp, (sc, ch 3, sc) in next ch-5 sp; repeat from * across to center ch-5 sp, ch 5, (sc, ch 5, sc) in center ch-5 sp, ch 5 [(sc, ch 3, sc) in next ch-5 sp, ch 7, skip in next ch-3 sp] repeat across to last ch-sp, (sc, ch 3, sc, ch 7, sl st) in last ch-sp, fasten off- 60 ch-5 sps + 62 ch-3 sps + 3 ch-5 sps + 1 ch-7 sp + 1 ch-4 sp.
Blocking
Pin shawl to schematic size. Steam with iron holding iron at least an inch [2 cm] above fabric. Allow to dry.
Get the Ad-Free Printable PDF
If you love having a paper copy to tuck into your project bag (or you just don’t want to fight with ads and scrolling), the ad-free PDF is for you.
The printable pattern is perfect if you:
- Want a clean, easy-to-read layout
- Prefer to highlight, circle, and scribble notes as you go
- Like to keep your favorite patterns organized in binders or tablets
- Want to support the designer while still enjoying the free pattern on the blog
The ad-free PDF version of the Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl includes:
- Fully formatted written instructions
- The stitch diagram/chart (where applicable) in an easy-to-print size
- All abbreviations and special stitches together in one place
- Direct links to the recommended video tutorials
You can grab the PDF in the Marly Bird Store and on my other platforms (add your links here):
More Crochet Shawl Patterns from Marly Bird
If you’re in a shawl mood (honestly, same), you might also love these patterns:
- “More Than 5 Must-Have Crochet Shawl Patterns” – a curated shawl roundup that includes the Boothbay Harbor Shawl and more: https://marlybird.com/blog/more-than-5-crochet-shawl-patterns/
- Beautiful Gradient Crochet Wrap / Shawl – Stonington Crochet Gradient Shawl: https://marlybird.com/blog/what-to-crochet-gradient-yarn-sets-free-shawl-pattern/
- One Ball Shawl – make it in a night! The Late Nite Shawl: https://marlybird.com/blog/easy-one-ball-shawl-crochet-pattern-free/
- Caron Blossom Cakes in your stash? Make the Mangrove Crochet Shawl: https://marlybird.com/mangrove-crochet-shawl-pattern/
- Celestia Crochet Wrap – this amazingly beautiful shawl pattern is a must make! https://marlybird.com/blog/celestia-chevron-crochet-shawl/
- Enchanted Crochet Motif Shawl – use your favorite long color changing yarn and make this showstopper of a crochet shawl: https://marlybird.com/blog/enchanted-crochet-motif-shawl-free-pattern/
You can also browse all free crochet patterns from the Marly Bird site here:
https://marlybird.com/our-free-patterns/
FAQs: Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl
Add this FAQ section after the full pattern for extra SEO goodness and reader help.
Is this crochet shawl pattern beginner friendly?
I call this Advanced Beginner. If you’re comfortable with single crochet, double crochet, treble crochet, counting stitches, and working repeats, you’ll be fine. It’s a great pattern to gently stretch your skills.
Can I substitute yarn?
Yes, absolutely. Any worsted weight (#4) yarn that gives you a fabric you like will work. Wool and wool blends will give you cozy warmth and beautiful blocking results; acrylics can also work well if you steam block gently. Just make sure you have enough yardage.
Do I have to use foundation single crochet?
Foundation single crochet (Fsc) gives you a nice, stretchy starting edge, which feels great around your shoulders. But if you aren’t ready for that yet, you can absolutely:
- Chain the required number of stitches
- Work a row of double crochet into the chain instead
Just keep an eye on your tension so the starting edge doesn’t end up too tight.
How should I block my shawl?
For wool or wool blends, I recommend wet blocking:
- Soak gently in cool water with a bit of wool wash.
- Press out excess water (no wringing).
- Lay flat and pin to shape on blocking mats or a bed.
- Let dry completely before unpinning.
For more detail, see the blocking post mentioned above.
How do I share my finished Boothbay Harbor Shawl?
Please do – I love seeing your makes!
- Tag me on Instagram: @themarlybird
- Use hashtags: #mmmdi and #marlybird
- Share in the Marly’s Minions: Marly Bird BiCrafty Community on Facebook so we can all gush over your stitches together
Final Thoughts
The Boothbay Harbor Crochet Shawl is one of those projects that feels peaceful to work on and incredibly satisfying to wear. It’s rhythmic without being boring, cozy without being bulky, and it looks good on so many bodies and styles.
Whether you’re curling up at home, heading out for dinner, or strolling along an actual harbor (if you’re that lucky!), this shawl is ready to go with you.
So grab your yarn, pick a hook, and treat yourself to a project that’s as relaxing to make as it is beautiful to wear.
And when you finish?
You know the drill: tag me @themarlybird and use #mmmdi and #marlybird so I can cheer you on.
❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird
Categories: Crochet, Free Patterns, Our Free Patterns, Pattern, Uncategorized
