Martinique Shawl Crochet Pattern

Martinique Shawl in Berroco Liana

What is Being Made

The Martinique Shawl is an intermediate-level triangular shawl designed by Brenda York, featured in Berroco Book #416. This crocheted accessory measures approximately 70 inches across by 29 inches down the center after blocking, making it a generous wrap-style shawl suitable for layering or draping.

Craft and Construction Method

Despite being listed as a crochet pattern, the Martinique Shawl is actually constructed using knitting techniques worked in one piece. The shawl is built from a small cast-on foundation with strategic increases worked at each edge and on either side of a center stitch, creating a symmetrical triangular silhouette. This construction method allows the shawl to expand evenly as rows are added, resulting in the finished dimensions specified.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches and shaping techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters:

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) — the primary fabric stitch creating a smooth, classic texture
• Garter Stitch — worked at the edges to create definition and structure
• Yarn Overs (yo) — used strategically for increases that create decorative openwork and help shape the triangular form
• Make One (M1) — an increase technique used in early rows
• Purl Stitches (p) — used to highlight the center stitch and create textural contrast
• Stitch Markers (sm) — essential for tracking the center stitch and increase points throughout the pattern
• Color Stranding — the pattern incorporates two colors from the Berroco Liana line, with yarn carried loosely up the sides and twisted at the beginning of right-side rows to prevent long loops

Materials: Yarn and Tools

The Martinique Shawl is crafted using Berroco Liana yarn, a premium fiber choice. The pattern calls for 3 hanks (150 grams total) in two coordinating colorways: #8277 Sage (C1) and #8276 Laelia (C2), allowing crafters to create a two-tone color effect.

Knitting tools required include a 40-inch circular needle in size 6 (4.00 mm) and a crochet hook in size 4.00 mm (G) for finishing. The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 29 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, which crafters should verify before beginning to ensure accurate finished measurements.

Pattern Notes

The design emphasizes careful attention to gauge checking and color management. Crafters should take time to establish proper gauge before starting, as this directly affects the final dimensions. When working with two colors, yarn not actively in use should be carried loosely along the side edge, and colors must be twisted together at the beginning of every right-side row to prevent unsightly long loops in the finished fabric.