Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Crochet Pattern Review: Granny Stripe Shawl

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The granny stitch glow-up we didn’t know we needed — but absolutely adore.

Granny stripes, but make them chic! That’s exactly what the Granny Stripe Shawl by Lucia Stepankova delivers, and friends, let me tell you… this one is everywhere right now. And it’s not hard to see why.

This shawl brings that classic granny stitch comfort — you know, the kind that makes you think of nannas and endless tea — but gives it a modern twist with elegant drape, beautiful colour play, and that delightful, meditative rhythm that just makes you want to keep crocheting one more row.

What Makes It Shine

The beauty of this pattern is in its simplicity. It’s one of those “crochet and exhale” patterns — repetitive in the best way, and perfect for stash-busting or finally using that gradient yarn cake you’ve been saving for something special.

The triangular shape works up from the centre outward, and it’s so easy to customize — you can make it as small or large as you like. Add fringe, go bold with colours, or keep it soft and tonal for something more subtle. Whatever your style, this shawl makes it work.

And if you’re new to shawls? Don’t stress. This one is very beginner-friendly and a lovely introduction to working increases and shaping in a relaxed way.

Yarn & Hook Play

This pattern is flexible with yarn weights, but most versions I’ve seen use fingering or sport weight yarn for that airy, floaty feel. That said, a DK or worsted weight version would be just as cosy and give you that snuggly, oversized look — perfect for chilly mornings or layering in autumn.

It also makes a fabulous “TV project.” Grab a hot drink, pick your colours, and hook away. It’s that kind of relaxing crochet that fills your hands without draining your brain.

Why It’s Trending

Honestly? I think people are craving that mix of nostalgia and modern simplicity — and this pattern nails it. It’s easy, customizable, and looks stunning in both solids and variegated yarns. I’ve seen it paired with jeans and boots, tossed over maxi dresses, or even wrapped around shoulders for wedding season.

It’s also totally giftable — one of those makes that feels heartfelt but doesn’t take a thousand hours.

 

Have you read?

From Trash to Illusion: Thomas Deininger’s Recycled Art Challenges Perception and Promotes Sustainability

If you’ve ever looked at a pile of junk and thought, “This is just trash,” Thomas Deininger might have something to say about that. Based in Rhode Island, this incredibly clever artist has a knack for turning what most of us would toss in the bin—think broken toys, bits of plastic, even old electronics—into jaw-dropping pieces of art. What’s wild is how his sculptures often look like realistic animals or landscapes from a distance… but when you step closer, boom—you’re hit with the chaos of everyday debris woven into a detailed scene.

I first came across his work when I was scrolling through some recycled art ideas, and his “Striped Bass” piece totally stopped me in my tracks. From far away, it’s like you’re looking at a photograph. But up close, you start spotting action figures, bottle caps, and tangled wires all working together to make up the image. It’s mind-blowing.

What I really love about Thomas’s approach is how it blends creativity with a message. His work is fun and clever, sure—but it also hits on bigger things like overconsumption and the mountains of waste we create. He somehow manages to make that message stick without being preachy, just by showing how beautiful and meaningful our “trash” can actually be.

Whether you’re into environmental art or just love seeing imagination come to life, Thomas Deininger’s work is definitely worth checking out. It’s inspiring, a little chaotic, and totally unforgettable.