Inspired by openwork lace stitches in historic lace shawls, this romantic addition to evening wear recreates a less labor-intensive version of the look, using hairpin crochet. It’s very lightweight, and when worked in a smooth, soft yarn, will feel fantastic to wear as an extra layer or to dress-up a simple outfit, making it a versatile summer garment.

The hairpin technique is easy, great fun and fast growing. The strips are created with a basic stitch that has a rhythmic meditative feel and are surprisingly portable for those who love to crochet on the go. The assembly is extremely motivating as the simple strips suddenly turn into beautifully textured pieces of cloth when linked together and the finished shawl almost sneaks up on you!

A larger hook or latch hook (typically used for rug making and machine knitting) may make creating the woven join easier. Something between J/10 (6mm) and N/P/15 (10mm) will probably be most comfortable but if you don’t have large hooks, just try the largest you have, even if that’s the same one used for working Hairpin Strips.

Gauge:
2 joined Hairpin Strips measure 5” wide. 24 rows/turns of Hairpin Strip = 4”.
In Chain Lace pattern: 5 sc and 5 ch-5 sps = 4” ; 8 rows = 4”