Cleopatra Shawl Crochet Pattern: Easy Step-by-Step Tutorial

Updated at: 27/05/2025

Wrap yourself in the elegance of ancient Egypt with this stunning Cleopatra shawl! This crochet pattern offers a beautiful and surprisingly simple way to create a luxurious accessory that's perfect for adding a touch of regal flair to any outfit. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter looking for a new challenge or a beginner eager to expand your skills, this project is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, providing a satisfying sense of accomplishment once completed. The delicate lacework creates a graceful drape, and the overall design is both timeless and modern, making it a versatile piece for any season.

This easy-to-follow tutorial will guide you through each step of the process, from gathering your materials to securing the final stitch. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly and effortlessly you can create this magnificent shawl, and get ready to embrace the captivating allure of the Cleopatra shawl with our detailed step-by-step instructions below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • King Cole Cotton Soft yarn (honey color)
  • 4.5 mm crochet hook
  • scissors
  • darning needle
  • stitch markers
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors to avoid accidental cuts while working with yarn.
  • Always check your tension regularly to ensure consistent stitch size and prevent the shawl from becoming misshapen.
  • If you are unsure about a step, consult a video tutorial or seek help from an experienced crocheter to avoid frustration and unraveling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Foundation Chain

    • Chain 103 (or 25 for sample). Multiple is 6 + 1.
    Chain 103 (or 25 for sample). Multiple is 6 + 1.
    Foundation Chain

  2. Initial Double Crochet Row

    • Chain 1 (turning chain), double crochet in each chain across.
    Row 2: Chain 1 (turning chain), double crochet in each chain across.
    Initial Double Crochet Row

  3. Creating the Loops and V-Stitches

    • Chain 1, double crochet in first stitch, (chain 1, double crochet) in same stitch. Chain 2, skip 2 stitches, single crochet in next stitch. Repeat chain 2, skip 2, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet) in next stitch pattern across. End with chain 2, skip 2, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet) in last stitch.
    Row 3 (Loops and V's Row): Chain 1, double crochet in first stitch, (chain 1, double crochet) in same stitch. Chain 2, skip 2 stitches, single crochet in next stitch. Repeat chain 2, skip 2, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet) in next stitch pattern across. End with chain 2, skip 2, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet) in last stitch.
    Creating the Loops and V-Stitches

  4. Treble Crochet Row with Chain Spaces

    • Chain 1 (turning chain), treble in first stitch. Chain 2, (2 trebles together) in next chain space. Repeat chain 2, (2 trebles together) in each chain space across. End with (2 trebles together) in last chain space, chain 2, 1 treble in last stitch.
    Row 4: Chain 1 (turning chain), treble in first stitch. Chain 2, (2 trebles together) in next chain space. Repeat chain 2, (2 trebles together) in each chain space across. End with (2 trebles together) in last chain space, chain 2, 1 treble in last stitch.
    Treble Crochet Row with Chain Spaces

  5. Double Crochet Row with Shell Accents

    • Chain 1, turn. Double crochet in first stitch, double crochet around chain space, chain 1, double crochet between shells. Repeat chain 1, double crochet around chain space, chain 1, double crochet between shells across. End with double crochet in chain space, double crochet in last stitch.
    Row 5: Chain 1, turn. Double crochet in first stitch, double crochet around chain space, chain 1, double crochet between shells. Repeat chain 1, double crochet around chain space, chain 1, double crochet between shells across. End with double crochet in chain space, double crochet in last stitch.
    Double Crochet Row with Shell Accents

  6. Final Double Crochet Row

    • Chain 1, turn. Double crochet in each stitch across.
    Row 6: Chain 1, turn. Double crochet in each stitch across.
    Final Double Crochet Row

Read more: Easy Color Block Crochet Blanket Tutorial for Beginners

Tips

  • Use a 4.5 mm hook for looser stitches. Experiment with hook sizes to achieve desired fabric.
  • Place stitch markers to help keep track of rounds and stitches.
  • When working in the chain spaces, pick up both strands of the 'V' to avoid chain expansion.
  • Row 6 is a good check point to ensure correct stitch count.
  • The pattern uses a repeating sequence of four rows (Rows 3-6).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Varying tightness of stitches throughout the project leads to an uneven and misshapen shawl.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension by using a tension square and counting stitches regularly.

2. Incorrectly Following the Pattern

Reason: Skipping rows, adding extra stitches, or misinterpreting stitch instructions results in a shawl that doesn't match the pattern.
Solution: Carefully read and follow the written instructions, using stitch markers and counting stitches after each row.

FAQs

What type of yarn is best for the Cleopatra Shawl?
A light to medium weight yarn (worsted or DK weight) in a smooth texture works best. Merino wool, cotton blends, or even a high-quality acrylic will all produce a beautiful shawl. Avoid excessively fluffy or bulky yarns.
Can I adjust the size of the Cleopatra Shawl?
Yes! You can easily adjust the size by increasing or decreasing the number of repetitions of the main pattern. Longer repetitions will create a larger shawl, while fewer repetitions will result in a smaller one. Check the pattern for specific instructions on how to adjust.
What crochet skills are needed to make this shawl?
This pattern is designed for intermediate beginners. You should be comfortable with basic crochet stitches like chain, single crochet, double crochet, and understanding how to read a pattern. Knowledge of increases and decreases is helpful but not strictly necessary as the pattern is well explained.