The Turquoise Lakes Ripple Shawl Free Pattern – A Crocheted Waves Wrap with Shell Stitch Borders

The Turquoise Lakes Ripple Shawl: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Serene, Waves Wrap

Imagine wrapping yourself in the tranquil, sun-dappled surface of an alpine lake. That's the feeling you'll create with the Turquoise Lakes Ripple Shawl. This free crochet pattern uses a mesmerizing ripple stitch and a gradient of turquoise, teal, and aqua to craft a flowing, elegant accessory. It's surprisingly beginner-friendly, using basic stitches to create a sophisticated, textured wave effect. The delicate shell border adds a lacy, finished touch, making this shawl both cozy and chic. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or looking for your next rewarding project, this wrap is sure to become a favorite.

Materials Needed: Gathering Your Lake-Inspired Yarn

Before you dive in, gather these simple supplies. The beauty of this pattern is its simplicity—you only need one hook and four shades of worsted-weight yarn.

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in 4 shades (approx. 150g each):
  Color A: Turquoise (for the top edge)
  Color B: Teal
  Color C: Aqua
  Color D: Light Blue (for the point)
• Crochet Hook: 5.5mm (I-9) crochet hook
• Other: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors

Gauge & Pattern Notes

To ensure your shawl drapes beautifully, it's important to match the gauge. The pattern is worked from the top center down, increasing at the edges to form a triangle.

Gauge: 4 ripple repeats (12 stitches) and 8 rows = 4 inches in ripple stitch pattern.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crocheting Your Ripple Shawl

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own Turquoise Lakes Shawl. The ripple pattern is repetitive and relaxing once you get the hang of it!

Foundation Row (Top Edge)

With Color A (Turquoise), chain 100. This will be the top edge of your shawl.

Row 1: Establishing the Ripple Pattern

Work 1 double crochet (dc) in the 4th chain from the hook. Work 1 dc in each of the next 3 chains.

Repeat the following sequence across the row:

• Skip 2 chains.
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 chains.
• Work 3 dc in the next chain (this creates the "peak" of the wave).
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 chains.
• Skip 2 chains.
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 chains.

End the row by working 1 dc in each of the last 4 chains. Turn your work. You will have 8 ripple peaks and 7 valleys.

Row 2: Increasing at the Edges

Chain 3 (this counts as your first dc). Work 1 dc in the same stitch (this is your increase). Work 1 dc in each of the next 3 dc.

Repeat the following sequence across the row:

• Skip 2 dc.
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc.
• Work 3 dc in the next dc (this is the center of the peak).
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc.
• Skip 2 dc.
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc.

End the row by working 2 dc in the top of the turning chain (this is your increase on the other edge). Turn.

Row 3: Continuing the Pattern

Chain 3 (counts as dc). Work 1 dc in the same stitch. Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc.

Repeat the following sequence across the row:

• Skip 2 dc.
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc.
• Work 3 dc in the next dc (center of peak).
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc.
• Skip 2 dc.
• Work 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc.

End the row by working 2 dc in the top of the turning chain. Turn.

Continuing the Shawl Body

Continue in this established pattern. On each new row, you will work one more dc before the first skip and one more dc after the last skip. This is what increases the width of the shawl at both edges, creating the triangular shape.

Work 8 rows total with Color A (Turquoise). Then, switch to Color B (Teal) and work 8 rows. Next, use Color C (Aqua) for 8 rows, followed by Color D (Light Blue) for 8 rows.

Repeat this color sequence (A, B, C, D) until the shawl measures approximately 30 inches from the top edge to the point. End with a row of Color A.

Adding the Shell Stitch Border

Do not turn your work. With the right side facing you, you will work a shell border around the entire bottom edge (the point) and up the two side edges.

• Along the bottom edge: Work (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in each dc across the bottom.
• Along the side edges: Work (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in each row-end along the sides.

Join with a slip stitch to the first stitch of the border. Fasten off and weave in all loose ends with your yarn needle.

Optional Fringe

For an extra touch of boho elegance, add a fringe to the bottom edge. Cut 12-inch strands of each color. Attach them in groups of 3 to every other stitch along the bottom edge.

Your Turquoise Lakes Ripple Shawl is now complete! Drape it over your shoulders and enjoy the cozy, elegant waves you've created. This pattern is perfect for gifting or treating yourself to a handmade piece of art.