The short answer
A shawl to wrap the shoulders is usually 60 inches or more across the long edge. Choose wool or cashmere for warmth, cotton or linen for summer evenings. Drape it with the point at the back and the ends at the front, or throw one end over the opposite shoulder.
Sizes
General guidance; check each listing
| Use | Long edge | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Neck scarf | About 40 to 60 in | Knots at the front. Knit triangles |
| Shoulder shawl | About 60 to 72 in | Covers the shoulders, ends cross in front |
| Wrap | Over 72 in | Covers the back; doubles as a travel blanket |
The styles
-
01
Warmest
The wool triangle shawl
Best for Cold evenings, over a sweater
- Pure wool or a wool blend
- Ribbed or garter textures hold shape
- Heavier fabrics stay on better
-
02
Boho
The fringed shawl
Best for Layering over a jacket in fall
- Fringe along the two short edges
- Woven or knit
- Fringe can tangle; comb it out after washing
-
03
Summer and travel
The lightweight wrap
Best for Air conditioning, planes, summer evenings
- Cotton, linen or a thin wool
- Packs small
- Pashmina style wraps are rectangles, not triangles; check the shape
How to wear it
The classic drape
Works with Large knits and triangle shawls. Method as described by TBCo.
- Point to the back
Hold the long edge and put the scarf over your shoulders with the point at the back.
- Ends to the front
Let both long ends fall down the front of your coat or sweater.
- Arrange
Smooth the ends over your knitwear or tuck them into the lapels of a coat.
The shoulder throw
Works with Longer knits and shawls, over a coat. Method as described by The Zoe Report.
- Point to the front
Hang the scarf from your neck with the point at the front.
- Throw one end
Take one end and toss it over the opposite shoulder so the triangle lies across your chest and shoulder.
- Leave it loose
Leave it unknotted, or pin the end under a coat collar so it stays put. Longer scarves work best for this.
Make one
Knit and crochet shawls are some of the most popular free patterns. Start with knitting patterns or crochet patterns; most scale from scarf to shawl by working more rows.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between a triangle scarf and a triangle shawl?
Size and use. A triangle scarf is small enough to knot at the neck; a shawl is large enough to cover the shoulders and upper back. Many patterns make either, depending on when you stop.
How do you keep a triangle shawl on?
Cross the ends at the front and tuck them under a belt or coat, knot them loosely, or use a shawl pin or scarf ring. A heavier wool stays put better than a slippery fabric.
Can you knit a triangle shawl as a beginner?
Yes. Simple top-down or point-up triangle patterns repeat the same increase every row. The free Easiest Triangle pattern on Ravelry says to keep going until it is the size you want.
Search triangle shawls on Amazon
Sources
Last reviewed October 12, 2026. Styles, sizes and availability change; check the listing before you buy.