Freeform crochet is an endlessly fascinating way of making an original fabric. It allows the crocheter to use any and all stitches and yarns without regard for the rules of traditional crochet. But the things that make it so wild and wonderful can also make it hard to approach. For the beginning freeform crocheter, the never-ending possibilities can be overwhelming, making it too difficult to even get started. I decided to write a pattern that would help beginners get their feet wet.

But this isn’t really a true pattern because it’s not written so that the original design can be reproduced exactly. And the freeform is actually freeformish since it’s not entirely improvised. So, I’m calling it a freeform•ish guide. It explains freeform basics so that a traditional crocheter with some experience can start to freeform as a beginner in an approachable way. To keep things as manageable as possible, only part of this shawlette will be made of freeform, the rest is traditional linen stitch. In addition, the freeform section will use only a few motifs and stitches, making it an approachable project that still results in an interesting, one of a kind, wearable accessory. Limits on the possibilities are balanced with guidance on ways for new freeformers to follow their own creative choices when they’re ready.

Skills you will learn:
Making and using a template
Choosing yarns that will balance the freeform and tradition crochet sections
How to make scrumbles and assemble them into a freeform fabric
Ensuring that the fabric will lay flat
Incorporating your own favorite stitch patterns into motifs and borders

Note: This freeform•ish guide does not include instructions for the basic crochet stitches: ch, sc, hdc, dc, tr, sl st (see abbreviations on p.17). If you are comfortable with these stitches, you’re ready to start. If not, take the time to learn these crochet basics, then keep your favorite how-to-crochet book nearby for reference.

The sample piece measures approximately 42 inches long.

All yarns used are fingering weight wools, one 100g hank for the linen stitch section, and 60-70g total of 6-20 yarns for the freeform section. The freeform section will actually use less than 60-70g, but it is good to have extra yardage on hand to make sure that there is plenty of room for choice.