The Virus Shawl is one of the most beloved crochet patterns in the world—and for good reason. Its flowing lace, rhythmic repeats, and lightweight drape make it perfect for any season. Whether you’re crocheting a shawl for yourself, a gift, or even to sell at craft fairs, this design is wonderfully satisfying and endlessly customizable.
One of the greatest advantages of the Virus Shawl is that it looks incredibly intricate, yet follows a predictable repeat that becomes relaxing and meditative after just a few rows. You can work it in solid colors, vibrant gradients, hand-dyed yarns, or soft neutrals for a delicate lace look. And because the shawl grows outward from the center, you can stop at any point—making it a perfect project for beginners and experienced crocheters alike.
Below you’ll find a fully rewritten version of the pattern you provided, organized for clarity and ease of use.
Virus Shawl Crochet Pattern (US Terms)
Begin with:
Ch 10, join with sl st to form a ring.
Row 1
Ch 3 (counts as dc). Work 19 dc into the ring. (20 dc total)
Row 2
Ch 3 and turn (counts as dc). Dc in each stitch across. (20 dc)
Row 3
Ch 4 (counts as dc + ch 1). Dc in next stitch, ch 1.
Repeat across. (20 dc, each separated by ch 1)
FIRST LACE SECTION
Row 4
Ch 10 (counts as dc + ch 7).
Skip 1 ch-space, sc in next ch-space.
Ch 4, skip 1 ch-space, sc in next ch-space — repeat 3 times.
Ch 7, skip 1 ch-space, sc in next ch-space — repeat 2 times.
Ch 4, skip 1 ch-space, sc in next ch-space — repeat 3 times.
Ch 7, dc in 3rd ch of turning chain.
Row 5
Ch 3 and turn.
Work 10 dc into the large ch-space.
Sc in next small ch-space.
Ch 4, sc in next small ch-space — repeat 2 times.
Work 10 dc into next large ch-space; then 10 dc into the following large ch-space.
Sc in next small ch-space.
Ch 4, sc in next small ch-space — repeat 2 times.
Work 10 dc into last large ch-space.
Row 6
Ch 3 and turn.
Dc in each of the 10 sts of the large ch-space.
Sc in next small ch-space, ch 4, sc in next small ch-space.
Dc in each of the 20 sts across the two large ch-spaces.
Sc in next small ch-space, ch 4, sc in next small ch-space.
Dc in each of the 10 sts in last large ch-space.
Row 7
Ch 4 (counts as dc + ch 1) and turn.
Dc, ch 1 across all 10 dc of first large section.
Skip small ch-space.
Dc in first dc of next large section.
Repeat dc, ch 1 across 20 dc.
Skip small ch-space.
Repeat dc, ch 1 across last 10 dc.
SECOND LACE SECTION
Row 8
Ch 10 (counts as dc + ch 7).
Skip 1 ch-space, sc in next space.
Ch 4, skip 1 ch-space, sc in next — repeat 3 times (3 small gaps).
Ch 7, skip 2 ch-spaces, sc in next.
Ch 4, skip 1 ch-space, sc in next — repeat 3 times.
Ch 7, skip 1 ch-space, sc in next — repeat 2 times (2 large gaps).
Ch 4, skip 1 ch-space, sc in next — repeat 3 times.
Ch 7, skip 2 ch-spaces, sc in next.
Ch 4, skip 1 ch-space, sc in next — repeat 3 times.
Ch 7, dc in last dc.
Row 9
Ch 3 and turn.
Work 10 dc into the first large ch-space.
Sc in next small space, ch 4, sc in next space (2 small gaps).
Work 10 dc in next large ch-space.
Sc in next space, ch 4, sc in next (2 small gaps).
Work 10 dc in next large ch-space AND 10 dc in the next one (two big groups back-to-back).
Sc in next small space.
Ch 4, sc in next space (2 small gaps).
Work 10 dc in next large space.
Sc, ch 4, sc (2 small gaps).
Work 10 dc in last large ch-space.
Row 10
Ch 3 and turn.
Dc 10 across the first large section.
Sc, ch 4, sc across next two small spaces.
Dc 10 across next large gap.
Sc, ch 4, sc.
Dc 20 across the two large gaps.
Sc, ch 4, sc.
Dc 10 in next large gap.
Sc, ch 4, sc.
Dc 10 in last large gap.
Row 11
Ch 4 and turn (counts as dc + ch 1).
Dc, ch 1 across 10 dc.
Skip small ch-space.
Dc, ch 1 across 10 dc.
Skip space.
Dc, ch 1 across 20 dc.
Skip space.
Dc, ch 1 across 10 dc.
Skip space.
Dc, ch 1 across last 10 dc.
REPEAT SECTION
Rows 12–15 follow the exact sequence of Rows 8–11.
Continue repeating these four pattern rows until your shawl reaches the desired size or your yarn runs out.
Tips & Suggestions
✨ Yarn Ideas:
• Gradient cakes (perfect for long repeats)
• Soft cotton for warm climates
• Mohair blends for a dreamy halo
✨ Color Suggestions:
• Ombre blues for an ocean feel
• Earth tones for a natural, boho look
• Jewel tones for a luxurious finish
• Rainbow or multicolor for a statement shawl
✨ How to Use Your Shawl:
• Draped over your shoulders
• As a scarf
• As a lightweight wrap for evenings out
• As a gift for birthdays, Mother’s Day, or holidays
The Virus Shawl is one of those timeless crochet projects that never fails to impress. Its elegant lace repeats, soothing rhythm, and customizable size make it perfect for crocheters of all levels.
As you continue working through the repeating rows, the shawl grows beautifully and effortlessly, revealing its signature flowing design. I hope you enjoy every stitch of this pattern and that your finished shawl becomes a cherished piece in your handmade collection.
