Knitting Shawl Yardage Calculator
Created by: Ethan Brooks
Last updated:
Estimate how much yarn you need for a shawl based on shape, dimensions, and yarn weight. Choose from triangular, crescent, rectangular, or half-circle shawls and get accurate yardage with pattern adjustments.
Knitting Shawl Yardage Calculator
KnittingEstimate yarn needs for any shawl shape and size
Shawl Shape & Size
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What is a Shawl Yardage Calculator?
A Shawl Yardage Calculator estimates how much yarn you need for a shawl based on shape, dimensions, and yarn weight. Choose from triangular, crescent, rectangular, or half-circle shapes to get accurate yardage requirements.
Shawls are one of the most popular knitting projects, and yarn requirements vary dramatically based on shape and size. This calculator helps you plan purchases and avoid running out mid-project.
Understanding Shawl Yardage
Triangular: Uses increasing yarn per row — the last quarter of rows uses nearly half the yarn
Crescent: Similar to triangular but with short-row shaping for a curved shape
Rectangular/Stole: Consistent yarn usage per row throughout
Half-Circle: Pi shawl construction with periodic increase rounds
Frequently Asked Questions
How much yarn do I need for a shawl?
It depends on size and shape. A small triangular shawl needs 400-600 yards of fingering weight. A large wrap-style shawl needs 800-1,200 yards. Lace shawls use less yarn per square inch but cover more area. Always check your pattern's yardage.
What are the common shawl shapes?
The most popular shapes are: triangular (top-down or bottom-up), crescent (curved like a half moon), rectangular/stole, half-circle (pi shawl), and asymmetrical. Each shape has different construction and yardage needs.
What's the best yarn weight for shawls?
Fingering and lace weights are most popular for shawls because they create lightweight, drapey fabric with beautiful stitch definition. DK creates a cozy, quicker-to-knit shawl. Bulky makes a warm wrap but uses much more yarn.
How big should a shawl be?
A wearable triangular shawl should span at least 50-60 inches across the top edge and 24-30 inches deep at center. A rectangular stole is typically 18-24 inches wide and 60-72 inches long. Size depends on how you plan to wear it.
Does lace knitting use less yarn?
Yes, lace patterns with yarn-overs create a more open fabric that uses less yarn per square inch than stockinette. However, lace shawls are often blocked larger, so total yardage may be similar. Budget about 15% less than stockinette estimates.
How does blocking affect shawl size?
Blocking can increase a lace shawl's size by 20-40%. Wool and wool blends block more dramatically than cotton or acrylic. Plan your pre-blocking size accordingly - a shawl that seems small off the needles may be perfect after blocking.
Can I make a shawl with one skein?
Yes! Many patterns are designed for single skeins (typically 400-yard fingering weight). These create smaller shawlettes or scarves. Look for 'one-skein shawl' patterns, or design a triangle that uses yarn until it runs out.
How do I calculate yarn for a gradient or striped shawl?
Divide total yardage by the number of colors. For gradients, the first color uses less (small triangle top) and the last uses most (wide bottom). A rough split for 3 colors in a top-down triangle: 15%, 30%, 55%.
Sources and References
- The Knitter's Handy Book of Top-Down Sweaters by Ann Budd
- Shawl Geometry by various designers on Ravelry
- Craft Yarn Council, "Shawl Sizing Guidelines", 2024