Berroco Cintia Shawl Crochet Pattern

Berroco Cintia Crochet Shawl

What is Being Made

The Cintia is an intermediate-level crochet shawl designed by Alison Green. This triangular wrap measures approximately 66 inches across the top and 26 inches down the center, making it a generous accessory suitable for layering or draping across the shoulders.

Craft and Construction Technique

Cintia is constructed using the crochet method, worked from a small foundation chain that expands outward through successive rows. The shawl is built using a top-down triangular construction, where each row increases in width to create the characteristic draped silhouette. The pattern employs a combination of solid stitches and decorative openwork sections that create visual interest and allow the yarn to drape elegantly. Blocking after completion is essential to achieve the finished measurements and proper gauge.

Stitches Used

The Cintia pattern incorporates several fundamental crochet stitches to build its structure and decorative elements:

• Double crochet (dc) – forms the primary fabric and structural elements throughout the shawl
• Treble crochet (tc) – used at turning points and edge stitches for added height and definition
• Single crochet (sc) – creates smaller, tighter stitches in decorative openwork sections
• Chain stitches (ch) – used extensively to create spaces, turning chains, and decorative mesh elements that contribute to the lacy appearance
• Slip stitch (sl st) – joins chain spaces to create structured loops and openwork details

The pattern repeats feature combinations of these stitches arranged to create a balanced design with both solid and open sections. Chain-space sequences (noted as ch-2 sp, ch-7 sp, etc.) are fundamental to the pattern's construction and create the characteristic openwork that defines the shawl's aesthetic.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The Cintia is designed to be worked with Berroco Tiramisu, a yarn requiring 4 balls (50 grams each) in colorway #9242 Gelato. This yardage and fiber content are specifically calculated to achieve the finished dimensions when worked to the specified gauge.

Tools: Construction requires a size 7 (4.5 mm) crochet hook and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing.

Gauge and Sizing

Proper gauge is critical for this project. The pattern specifies that one pattern repeat measures 4¾ inches wide, and 7½ rows equal 4 inches in height. These measurements are taken after blocking, which is an essential finishing step. Crocheters are strongly advised to swatch and check gauge before beginning the full project to ensure accurate finished measurements and proper yarn yardage consumption.