How do I know if a gift shawl is big enough?

[NeedSleep]

I am making a Seraphina as a gift and don't know how big to make it. Any tips?

[CrisKad]

I think it depends on the height of the person you're making it for and how long you think they'd like it.

 

I'm making a Seraphina for my grandmother and we are about the same height. As I'm making the shawl, I keep trying it on myself to see how long it is and where it drapes. I think I am going to make it until the ends reach my wrists, then stop.

[HomekeepingGran]

Most people like their shawls to match their "wingspan", ie. arms outstretched. Fortunately the human wingspan is approximately the same as his or her height so if you know the person's height, you know about how wide to make the shawl.

[Yaviiniia Loenla Enath]

It's probably better to make it too big than too small.