The Driftwood Dune Pocket Shawl: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Wrap with Integrated Pockets
Wrap Yourself in Texture: The Driftwood Dune Pocket Shawl
There's something magical about a crochet project that feels both modern and timeless. The Driftwood Dune Pocket Shawl is exactly that—a stunning asymmetrical wrap that combines the warmth of a classic shawl with the practicality of deep, integrated pockets. Using a unique interplay of front post and back post double crochet stitches, this pattern creates a fabric that mimics the organic, wind-swept texture of sandy dunes. Whether you're a confident beginner or an intermediate crocheter looking for a satisfying project, this free pattern will guide you through creating a cozy, boho-chic accessory that's perfect for chilly evenings or layering over your favorite outfit.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following supplies. Using the exact yarn weight and hook size will ensure your shawl matches the intended size and texture.
- Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) yarn in two colors:
- Main Color (MC): 800 yards of a warm, sandy beige (e.g., Lion Brand Wool-Ease in 'Taupe')
- Contrast Color (CC): 400 yards of a soft, driftwood gray (e.g., Lion Brand Wool-Ease in 'Gray Heather')
- Hook: Size J-10 (6.0 mm) crochet hook, or size needed to obtain gauge.
- Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and sewing pockets, stitch markers (optional).
- Gauge: 14 stitches x 8 rows = 4 inches in pattern stitch (alternating FPdc and BPdc). Tip: Make a gauge swatch to ensure your shawl matches the dimensions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This pattern is worked from the top center point downward, increasing on one side to create the asymmetrical shape. Pockets are worked separately and sewn on at the end. Follow each step carefully, and you'll have a beautiful, functional shawl.
Special Stitches
- FPdc (Front Post Double Crochet): Yarn over, insert hook from front to back around the post of the next stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, (yarn over, pull through 2 loops) twice.
- BPdc (Back Post Double Crochet): Yarn over, insert hook from back to front around the post of the next stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, (yarn over, pull through 2 loops) twice.
- Shell: (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in same stitch or space.
Shawl Body
Row 1 (Wrong Side): With MC, chain 4. In the 4th chain from the hook (the skipped chains count as your first double crochet), work 2 double crochet, chain 1, 3 double crochet. Turn. You now have 8 double crochet stitches and 1 chain-1 space.
Row 2 (Right Side): Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet), FPdc around the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, FPdc around the next stitch, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet) in the chain-1 space, FPdc around the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, FPdc around the next stitch, double crochet in the top of the turning chain. Turn. You now have 12 stitches.
Row 3: Chain 3, BPdc around the next stitch, FPdc around the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, double crochet in the next stitch, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet) in the chain-1 space, double crochet in the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, FPdc around the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, double crochet in the top of the turning chain. Turn. You now have 16 stitches.
Row 4: Chain 3, FPdc around the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, FPdc around the next stitch, double crochet in the next 2 stitches, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet) in the chain-1 space, double crochet in the next 2 stitches, FPdc around the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, FPdc around the next stitch, double crochet in the top of the turning chain. Turn. You now have 20 stitches.
Row 5: Chain 3, BPdc around the next stitch, FPdc around the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, double crochet in the next 3 stitches, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet) in the chain-1 space, double crochet in the next 3 stitches, BPdc around the next stitch, FPdc around the next stitch, BPdc around the next stitch, double crochet in the top of the turning chain. Turn. You now have 24 stitches.
Continue in this pattern: Each Right Side row increases the number of double crochet stitches between the post stitch sections by 2 (one on each side of the center chain-1 space). Each Wrong Side row mirrors the Right Side row but with BPdc and FPdc swapped. Work until the shawl measures 60 inches along the longest edge, ending with a Wrong Side row. Fasten off MC.
Pockets (Make 2)
With CC, chain 26.
Row 1: Single crochet in the 2nd chain from the hook and across. Turn. You now have 25 single crochet stitches.
Row 2: Chain 1, single crochet in each single crochet across. Turn.
Rows 3-20: Repeat Row 2. Fasten off, leaving a long tail (about 18 inches) for sewing.
Finishing
- Pocket Placement: Lay the shawl flat with the Right Side facing up. Place one pocket on each end of the shawl, centered over the post stitch sections, about 4 inches from the bottom edge. Pin in place.
- Sew Pockets: Using the long tail and a tapestry needle, sew the bottom and side edges of each pocket to the shawl, leaving the top open. Use a whip stitch or mattress stitch for a clean finish.
- Edging (Optional): With CC, single crochet evenly around the entire shawl edge, working 3 single crochet in each corner. Join with a slip stitch to the first single crochet. Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
Your Driftwood Dune Pocket Shawl is complete! The combination of textured post stitches and soft, heathered yarn creates a piece that's as beautiful as it is functional. Slip your hands into the pockets, drape it over your shoulders, and enjoy the cozy, modern elegance you've created.
