Sweetgrass Shrug Bolero Knitting Pattern

Sweetgrass Shrug in Berroco Modern Cotton DK

What Is Being Made

The Sweetgrass Shrug is an intermediate-level knitted bolero-style garment designed by Donna Yacino. This versatile shrug features a fitted construction with separate front pieces that are joined at the center back neck, creating an elegant layering piece. The design offers seven size options with finished bust measurements ranging from 33 inches to 57 inches and lengths from 12 inches to 16 inches, making it adaptable for various body types and styling preferences.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The garment is constructed using a modular approach, with fronts worked separately from bottom to top, then joined with stitches cast on at the center for the back neck. The back is worked downward from the joined sections, while sleeves are picked up along the armholes and worked downward. This construction method allows for precise shaping and fit adjustments throughout the garment. The pattern also incorporates a provisional cast-on technique to create a clean foundation for the front pieces. Knitters will use waste yarn to hold stitches during the construction process, and a stitch holder is required to manage stitches at key transition points.

Stitches Used

The Sweetgrass Shrug features a signature pattern stitch that repeats over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 3. This textured stitch combines several techniques across its 4-row repeat:

• Knit stitches (K) – Used for edge definition and stitch spacing
• Purl stitches (P) – Creates the base texture and reverse stockinette elements
• P3tog (purl 3 together) – A decrease that reduces three stitches to one, creating visual interest
• Yarn overs (YO) – Adds openwork and lace-like qualities to the pattern
• Purl same 3 sts tog again – A unique technique where the same three stitches are purled together a second time after the yarn over, creating a distinctive textured effect

The pattern alternates between patterned rows (Rows 1 and 3) and plain purl rows (Rows 2 and 4), creating a balanced rhythm that is both visually interesting and manageable for intermediate knitters.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: Berroco Modern Cotton DK in colorway Elms (#6616) is the specified yarn for this project. Knitters will need between 2 and 4 hanks depending on size selection, with each hank weighing 100 grams. This yarn choice provides a lightweight, breathable fabric ideal for a shrug that layers well over other garments.

Needles and Notions: The pattern requires multiple needle sizes to accommodate different sections of the garment. Size 9 (5.50 mm) straight needles are used for the main body pieces, while a 36-inch or longer circular needle in size 7 (4.50 mm) is needed for working the back and joining sections. Additionally, two size 7 (4.50 mm) double-pointed needles (dpns) are required for working smaller circumferences, likely for the neckline or sleeve finishing. A stitch holder manages stitches during construction, and waste yarn supports the provisional cast-on technique.

Gauge: The pattern is worked at a gauge of 24 stitches and 20 rows over 4 inches in the pattern stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly given the range of sizes available.

Skill Level and Suitability

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex construction methods. The combination of textured stitch work, modular construction, and multiple needle sizes provides an engaging project that builds confidence in garment assembly and shaping techniques.