As the crisp autumn air settles in this September 2025, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by knitting a cozy shawl. Shawls are timeless favorites among knitters—versatile, elegant, and oh-so-satisfying to create. Whether you’re layering up for chilly evenings or adding a handmade touch to your wardrobe, these projects offer warmth, style, and a chance to play with colors inspired by falling leaves. In this curated collection, we’ve rounded up 10 beautiful knitted shawl patterns that range from beginner-friendly to more intricate designs. Let’s cast on and get cozy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Knitted Shawls
Dipping your toes into shawl knitting? Here are some beginner-friendly answers to common questions.
What is a knitted shawl?
A knitted shawl is a triangular, rectangular, or asymmetrical wrap typically worn over the shoulders. It’s great for adding warmth, style, or a pop of color to any outfit.
What yarn is best for knitted shawls?
Fingering or DK-weight yarns work wonderfully for shawls, offering great drape. Wool or wool blends provide warmth, while cotton or silk are ideal for lighter, all-season pieces.
Are shawl patterns beginner-friendly?
Many are! Look for patterns using basic stitches like garter or stockinette. They often build skills gradually, making them perfect for new knitters.
How long does it take to knit a shawl?
It varies by complexity and size—simple ones might take a weekend (10-20 hours), while detailed lace designs could span a week or more.
Can shawls be worn year-round?
Yes! Lightweight lace shawls suit spring and summer, while chunkier wool versions are perfect for fall and winter layering.
How do I block a knitted shawl?
Blocking enhances shape and drape. Soak in lukewarm water, gently squeeze, pin to a mat in the desired form, and let dry.
What needles should I use for shawls?
Circular needles (US 4-8, depending on yarn) are common for accommodating stitches. Straight needles work for smaller projects.
Our Top 10 Knitted Shawl Patterns
Dive into these 10 inspiring patterns, each with its own charm. We’ve included details to help you choose the perfect one for your next project.
1. Beginner Diagonal Shawl by Nancy Queen
Description: A large one-skein triangle shawl knitted on the bias, starting from a small corner and expanding without decreases for a simple, flowing design.
Unique Features:
- Style: Diagonal, bias-knit triangle.
- Stitches: Garter stitch, increases at the beginning of every other row, long tail cast-on.
- Skill Level: Beginner.
- Seasonal Use: Versatile for fall layering.
Why You’ll Love It: This straightforward pattern is ideal for building confidence, and the one-skein wonder makes it a quick, gratifying knit.
2. Playground Shawl by Justyna Knits
Description: A biased shawl with alternating garter and lace stripes, designed for easy knitting on the go, with adjustable sizing for a custom fit.
Unique Features:
- Style: Skewed triangular, colorful and fun.
- Stitches: Garter stitch, lace (yarn overs, ssk), increases (kfb).
- Skill Level: Beginner-friendly.
- Seasonal Use: Great for transitional seasons with self-striping yarns.
Why You’ll Love It: Its simple, memorizable sections make it perfect for relaxed knitting, and the lace adds a touch of elegance without complexity.
3. Garter Half Pi Shawl by Snugglery
Description: A half pi variation of the classic pie shawl, worked in garter stitch with periodic stitch doubling for a flat, cozy shape.
Unique Features:
- Style: Half-circle inspired, timeless and cozy.
- Stitches: Garter stitch, yarn over increases, garter tab cast-on.
- Skill Level: Beginner-friendly.
- Seasonal Use: Ideal for fall’s cozy vibes.
Why You’ll Love It: Inspired by Elizabeth Zimmerman, it’s a simple intro to shaped shawls, with room for creative lace additions.
4. Stormy Sky Shawl by Life is Cozy
Description: A lightweight, asymmetrical skewed triangle shawl knitted from the corner, featuring lace and a braid-like edge for a dynamic look.
Unique Features:
- Style: Asymmetrical triangle with lace accents.
- Stitches: Lace patterns (yarn overs, decreases), simple increases.
- Skill Level: Beginner-friendly, easy to follow.
- Seasonal Use: Lightweight for year-round, stormy theme suits fall.
Why You’ll Love It: This fast, one-skein project creates a modern, airy wrap that’s super versatile and beginner-approved.
5. Half + Half Triangle Shawl by Purl Soho
Description: A wrap knit in two colorful triangles using short rows for a diagonal, two-tone design that’s perfect for snuggling.
Unique Features:
- Style: Diagonal, two-color triangle.
- Stitches: Garter stitch, short rows with wrap and turn.
- Skill Level: Easy, great for learning techniques.
- Seasonal Use: Earthy tones for cozy year-round wear.
Why You’ll Love It: The inventive construction and color play make it a fun, approachable project with stunning results.
6. Clapotis ’24 by Kate Gilbert
Description: A bias-knit scarf-like shawl with diagonal stripes from variegated yarn, featuring dropped stitches for a rippled effect.
Unique Features:
- Style: Parallelogram shape, French-inspired.
- Stitches: Stockinette, increases/decreases, dropped stitches, yarn overs.
- Skill Level: Intermediate.
- Seasonal Use: Wearable from fall through summer.
Why You’ll Love It: Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this classic pattern shines with indie-dyed yarns for a unique, textured finish.
7. Born Slippy by Hedgehog Fibres
Description: A beginner-friendly slip stitch scarf that blends tweedy and variegated yarns for colorful blips and a textured look.
Unique Features:
- Style: Simple scarf with multi-color effects.
- Stitches: Slip stitch pattern.
- Skill Level: Beginner-friendly.
- Seasonal Use: Versatile for all seasons.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a quick way to highlight beautiful yarns, creating a playful, one-of-a-kind accessory.
8. Quaking Aspen Wrap by Purl Soho
Description: A lengthwise knit wrap with color transitions inspired by autumn leaves, finished with a fringe for a breezy, natural feel.
Unique Features:
- Style: Generous wrap with seasonal color play.
- Stitches: Garter stitch, color changes with turn and slide.
- Skill Level: Intermediate.
- Seasonal Use: Autumn-inspired for fall warmth.
Why You’ll Love It: The nature-themed colors and easy techniques make it a meditative knit with elegant results.
9. Landscape Wrap by Two Of Wands
Description: A top-down triangle wrap customizable with colors to evoke personal landscapes, using simple stitches and textures.
Unique Features:
- Style: Drapey triangle with personalized color progression.
- Stitches: Stockinette, textured stripes, increases (m1r/m1l, YO).
- Skill Level: Easy.
- Seasonal Use: All-season, great for community KALs.
Why You’ll Love It: Its meditative design lets you infuse emotion into your knit, perfect for gifting or personal storytelling.
10. Robin Shawl by Maritime Family Fiber
Description: A basic triangle shawl with a picot edge, inspired by a robin’s whimsical charm, knit in any color for a versatile piece.
Unique Features:
- Style: Classic triangle with decorative edge.
- Stitches: Yarn overs, knit/purl, picot edge.
- Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate.
- Seasonal Use: Cozy for winter winds.
Why You’ll Love It: Simple yet charming, it’s a quick project that blocks beautifully for a polished, heirloom look.
Why Knitted Shawls Are Trending This Fall
In fall 2025, knitted shawls are all the rage, blending comfort with fashion-forward layering. As temperatures drop, knitters are turning to earthy tones, textured designs, and sustainable yarns that echo autumn’s palette. Trends like color-blocking and asymmetrical shapes are dominating social media and runways, making shawls a staple for cozy outfits. These patterns are ideal now—quick enough for holiday gifting, warm for crisp days, and a mindful escape from the hustle. Whether you’re into minimalist garter stitch or lacy details, shawls capture the season’s essence of warmth and creativity!
Cast On and Share Your Knits!
With these 10 knitted shawl patterns, you’re set for endless cozy crafting this fall. From the beginner ease of the Beginner Diagonal Shawl to the artistic flair of the Landscape Wrap, there’s a project here to spark your inspiration. Pick your yarn, settle in with a hot drink, and start knitting something special.
Tried one of these? Share your progress or finished pieces in the comments or on social media—we’d love to see! For more knitting ideas, explore our roundups for scarves, hats, and sweaters.