If you’re looking for a timeless crochet project, the Virus Meets Granny Shawl – Free Pattern is an excellent choice.
This beautiful combination of the virus stitch and the classic granny square technique creates a unique and eye-catching shawl that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced crocheters. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to make this stunning shawl step by step, allowing you to create a wearable masterpiece with ease.
The Virus Meets Granny Shawl blends two of the most popular crochet styles. The virus stitch, known for its wave-like and elegant pattern, gives the shawl a flowing, lacy feel.

Meanwhile, the granny square technique adds a familiar, structured look, creating a perfect balance between detail and simplicity. Whether you’re making this shawl for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, the versatility of the design ensures it will be loved by all.
In this free pattern, we’ll guide you through everything from choosing the right yarn to perfecting your stitches.
The beauty of the Virus Meets Granny Shawl is that it can be customized with different colors and yarn weights, making it adaptable for any occasion or season. Grab your crochet hook, and let’s get started on this exciting project!
1. Gathering Materials for the Virus Meets Granny Shawl
Before diving into the Virus Meets Granny Shawl – Free Pattern, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. Having everything prepared beforehand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
First and foremost, you’ll need yarn. For this shawl, it’s best to use a yarn that drapes well, like a light-weight or medium-weight yarn. Cotton or acrylic blends work well, but you can choose any fiber depending on your preference. Solid colors are perfect for showcasing the virus stitch, while variegated yarn adds an interesting dynamic to the granny square sections.
Next, you’ll need a crochet hook. The size of the hook depends on the yarn you choose. For most medium-weight yarns, a 4mm or 5mm crochet hook is ideal. Always check the yarn label for the recommended hook size and adjust accordingly for the best results.
A pair of scissors is essential for cutting your yarn as you switch colors or finish sections. A good pair will make clean cuts and prevent the yarn from fraying.
You’ll also need a tapestry needle. This is used to weave in the ends once your shawl is complete. Be sure to choose a needle with a large enough eye for your yarn.
Finally, consider having some stitch markers on hand. While this pattern is relatively straightforward, stitch markers can help you keep track of your rounds, especially when working on the virus stitch portion of the shawl.
Now that you have all your materials ready, let’s move on to the fun part—starting the Virus Meets Granny Shawl!
2. Starting the Virus Stitch
The Virus Meets Granny Shawl – Free Pattern begins with the virus stitch, which is known for its delicate, repeating wave pattern. This stitch creates the first part of the shawl and adds a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the later granny stitch section.
To begin, make a magic circle with your yarn and chain four. This chain will serve as your first double crochet. Next, work three double crochets into the magic circle, followed by a chain of three, and then another four double crochets. Close the magic circle tightly to form a small loop.
Now, you’ll start building the virus stitch pattern. In the next round, work two double crochets into the space between the groups of four double crochets from the previous round. Then chain two, and repeat this process in every space around the circle.
As you continue, the virus stitch will start to form its characteristic wave pattern. Each round adds more chains and double crochets, allowing the shawl to grow outward. Keep repeating these steps, working into the spaces between the previous rows of double crochets, until your shawl reaches the desired size for the virus stitch section.
The virus stitch is one of the most satisfying crochet techniques to work with because of how quickly it builds up and how elegant the result looks. By the time you finish this section, you’ll have a beautiful base for the next part of the Virus Meets Granny Shawl.
3. Transitioning to the Granny Square Stitch
Once you’ve completed the virus stitch section, it’s time to transition into the granny square stitch, which is the second half of the Virus Meets Granny Shawl – Free Pattern. This combination is what makes this shawl so unique and interesting.
To begin the granny stitch section, chain three from where you left off in the virus stitch. This chain counts as your first double crochet. Next, work two more double crochets into the same stitch to form the first granny cluster. Skip two stitches, then work another granny cluster (three double crochets in the same stitch). Continue this process across the row.
Once you’ve completed the first row of granny clusters, turn your work and start the next row by chaining three. Work your next granny cluster into the space between the clusters from the previous row. This creates a staggered, textured look that contrasts beautifully with the flowing virus stitch below.
Repeat these rows until your granny stitch section is the same width as the virus stitch section, or until you reach your desired shawl size. You can also add more rows to make the shawl larger, depending on how much yarn you have and how large you want your shawl to be.
The granny stitch is easy and quick to work, making this part of the shawl a breeze. Its structure complements the virus stitch perfectly, giving the shawl a bold, geometric look. Once you’ve completed the granny stitch section, your shawl will be almost finished!
4. Finishing and Customizing Your Shawl
After completing the virus and granny stitch sections, it’s time to finish and customize your Virus Meets Granny Shawl. The finishing touches will help give your shawl a polished look and make it ready to wear or gift.
First, check your work for any loose ends. Use your tapestry needle to weave in any remaining yarn tails. This step is crucial for making your shawl look neat and professional.
Next, consider blocking your shawl. Blocking helps even out your stitches and enhances the overall shape of the shawl. To block, wet your shawl slightly and lay it flat on a towel. Gently stretch it into the desired shape and size, then allow it to dry completely. This will set the stitches and make your shawl drape beautifully.
If you want to add a personal touch, consider adding fringe or a decorative edge to your shawl. A simple picot or shell stitch border can add elegance, while fringe gives the shawl a more bohemian, playful feel.
Finally, don’t be afraid to play with colors! You can use a single color for a sleek, modern look, or opt for multiple colors for a more vibrant and dynamic shawl. The Virus Meets Granny Shawl is highly customizable, so feel free to experiment with different yarns and color schemes to make it your own.
Now your shawl is complete! Whether you wear it yourself or gift it to a friend, this stunning project is sure to turn heads and showcase your crochet skills.
FAQ
What is a Virus Meets Granny Shawl?
The Virus Meets Granny Shawl is a crochet pattern that combines the virus stitch with the classic granny square stitch. The result is a beautiful, flowing shawl with a unique mix of textures and shapes.
Is the Virus Meets Granny Shawl beginner-friendly?
Yes! The Virus Meets Granny Shawl – Free Pattern is suitable for beginners. The virus stitch may look intricate, but it’s easy to master with practice. The granny stitch is straightforward, making this project accessible to crocheters of all skill levels.
What type of yarn is best for the Virus Meets Granny Shawl?
A light to medium-weight yarn works best for the Virus Meets Granny Shawl. Cotton, acrylic, or wool blends are all great options. The yarn should have a good drape to enhance the flow of the shawl.
Can I use multiple colors for this shawl?
Absolutely! You can use a single color for a sleek look or multiple colors for a vibrant, dynamic effect. Variegated yarns can also add a fun element to the design.
How do I block my Virus Meets Granny Shawl?
To block the shawl, lightly dampen it with water and lay it flat on a towel. Stretch it into the desired shape and allow it to dry completely. Blocking helps set the stitches and enhances the drape of the shawl.
How long does it take to complete the Virus Meets Granny Shawl?
The time it takes to complete the Virus Meets Granny Shawl depends on your skill level and how much time you dedicate to the project. On average, it can take a few days to a week to complete.
Join our VIP broadcast list and gain access to exclusive patterns, all for free. As a VIP member, you’ll receive the best patterns daily, delivered directly to your device. ✨📱 It’s a unique opportunity to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and designs, curated just for you. Don’t miss out on enhancing your projects and discovering new inspirations with the best patterns every day! 🎨🔝
Conclusion
In this Virus Meets Granny Shawl – Free Pattern, we’ve covered everything you need to know to create this stunning shawl. From gathering your materials to mastering the virus and granny stitches, this tutorial walks you through each step of the process. The result is a beautifully textured shawl that’s perfect for any occasion.
We hope this guide has inspired you to create your own Virus Meets Granny Shawl. We’d love to hear your thoughts, so please leave a comment below with your feedback and any suggestions for future patterns. Happy crocheting!