Shawls have a long history of keeping women warm and elegant. In the last several years, shawls have gained a growing respect as a modern accessory. From an elegant cranberry shawl to adorn a winter bride to a sunny gold one for those first warm spring days, these free shawl knitting patterns will be stylish all year long.

Seek and You Shawl Find

When spring finally arrives, celebrate the season with this light shawlette, which uses a shorter design, eyelet lacework and Estonian gathered stitches. Cabling creates a slight flare to the shawl, allowing the creation to gently hug the shoulders. This shawl also uses only 1 skein of yarn, making for a quicker knit.
Get this free shawl knitting pattern from Knitty.

Lace Face

The free shawl knitting pattern from Madeline’s Wardrobe uses a traditional Estonian Haapsalu design. The pattern can also be adapted for several different yarn weights, from cobweb to lace. Consider casting the shawl in a delicate white for an all-season accessory or offer it as unique wedding gift.
For the free shawl knitting pattern, head to Madeline’s Wardrobe.

Iced Over

Titled a three-cornered Icelandic shawl, this free shawl knitting pattern uses the traditional styling — worn over the shoulders and tied in the back. The size can be adjusted for any shape, from a child to an adult. Even more, knitters can decide on whatever edging they want.
Knitting Iceland offers this free pattern.

World by the Tail

Named the Swallowtail shawl, this unique knit accessory uses a lily of the valley border and a budding lace pattern for a delicate winter design. The pattern was featured in Interweave Knits and is definitely an advanced pattern. The result, however, is sweet and airy.
Evelyn Clark Designs shares this free shawl knitting pattern. 

In Stitches

The garter stitch makes up the majority of this pattern. Soft-hued stripes form a triangular shape, great for wrapping yourself up in while taking a walk along the beach. The shawl is worked back and forth on circular needles and is ideal for intermediate knitters or beginners willing to take on a challenge.
To get this free shawl knitting pattern, go to Garner Studio.

Tweed, Indeed

This rustic-fashioned shawl uses coarse colored yarn for a fall-inspired styling. It uses a simple dropped-stitch pattern and is worked from end to end for a triangular shape, so gauge isn’t important.
Knit Picks offers a download of this free pattern.

Image credits (from top): Knit Picks, Knitty, Madeline's Wardrobe, Knitting Iceland, Evelyn A Clark, Garner Studio and Knit Picks