Universal Yarn Mind Over Matter Shawl Crochet Pattern

Universal Yarn Mind Over Matter Crochet Shawl

What is Being Made

Mind Over Matter is a versatile crocheted shawl or scarf designed by Amy Gunderson, offered in two size options. The smaller scarf measures 14½ inches wide by 70 inches long, while the generous shawl size expands to 28 inches wide by 80 inches long. This project is ideal for crafters seeking a lightweight, breathable accessory that works up quickly due to its open stitch construction.

Construction Method and Techniques

This shawl is worked flat and constructed sideways, meaning you build the piece horizontally in one continuous piece, working back and forth in rows rather than in rounds. This bottom-up approach allows for straightforward row-by-row progression. The lace technique is central to the design, creating an open, airy fabric that is both visually striking and practical for layering. After completing the mesh body of the shawl, the pattern transitions directly into an outer edging that incorporates decorative picots—small ornamental loops created with chain stitches and slip stitches. These picots serve a functional purpose as well, making it easy to run blocking wires through them during the finishing and blocking stage, ensuring the shawl maintains its intended shape and drape.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout Mind Over Matter is the Mesh pattern, which creates the characteristic open, lacy fabric. This pattern combines chain spaces and single crochet stitches to form a regular, repeating grid-like texture. The pattern also incorporates a Puff Stitch, defined in the stitch guide as multiple yarn-overs and pulled loops worked into the same stitch location, then drawn together—adding textural dimension and visual interest to the design. The edging features picots, which are created by chaining three stitches and slip-stitching into the top of the previous stitch, creating small decorative bumps along the perimeter. Additional foundational stitches include double crochet and single crochet, which form the structural basis of the mesh and edging rows.

Materials and Tools

The shawl is worked using Universal Yarn Finn, a blend yarn composed of 50% acrylic, 25% superwash merino wool, and 25% alpaca. This fiber combination provides durability, softness, and easy care. The yarn is available in the colorway 105 Woodstar. The scarf size requires 4 skeins of Finn, while the larger shawl size requires 8 skeins. Each skein contains 50 grams and yields 230 yards of yarn. The project is worked on a US Size E-4 (3.5 mm) crochet hook, or a size adjusted as needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional notions include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, blocking wires, and pins for the finishing and shaping process.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches by 11½ rows measuring 4 inches in the Mesh pattern. Checking gauge before beginning is recommended to ensure the finished dimensions match the intended measurements and that yarn yardage is used efficiently.

Design Features

The open nature of the mesh stitch pattern makes the finished shawl breathable and lightweight, suitable for layering in various seasons. The lace construction allows the project to work up quickly compared to denser stitch patterns. The picot edging adds both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality for blocking and shaping the finished piece.