Woman's Oversized Shrug Bolero Knitting Pattern

Woman's Oversized Shrug in Plymouth Yarn De Aire

What Is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern from Plymouth Yarn Design Studio creates a woman's oversized shrug designed to fit sizes S/M and L/XL. The shrug features a distinctive construction that spans from sleeve to sleeve, measuring 46 inches for the smaller size and 50 inches for the larger size. The oversized silhouette and shrug style make it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions and body types.

Construction and Techniques

The shrug is constructed using a unique architectural approach that begins with a garter stitch foundation. Stitches are cast on and worked in garter stitch for 2½ inches, creating a stable base. Additional stitches are then cast on at the beginning of the next two rows, expanding the stitch count to 106 stitches for size S/M or 122 stitches for size L/XL. This expansion creates the oversized proportions characteristic of the design.

The main body of the shrug is worked in a slip stitch mesh pattern, which creates an open, airy fabric with visual texture. The slip stitch mesh pattern measures 41 inches for the smaller size and 45 inches for the larger size. The edges are maintained in garter stitch throughout to provide structure and prevent curling. After the mesh section is complete, stitches are bound off at the beginning of two rows to return to the original 42 stitch count, and the piece is finished with another 2½-inch garter stitch band.

The final construction step involves folding the shrug in half and seaming the cast-on edges to the side edges of the garter bands, creating the shrug's characteristic arm openings and draped silhouette. This technique transforms a flat rectangular piece into a wearable garment with functional sleeves.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: Created by knitting every row, this foundational stitch provides structure at the edges and bands of the shrug
• Slip Stitch Mesh: A textured pattern worked over a multiple of 2 stitches that combines slipped stitches, yarn overs, and knit-together decreases to create an open, mesh-like fabric with visual interest
• Stockinette Stitch: Referenced in the gauge measurement, representing smooth knit fabric
• Yarn Overs and Knit-Together Decreases: Used within the slip stitch mesh pattern to create the openwork effect

Materials and Gauge

This pattern calls for Plymouth Yarn De Aire in color 1902 (Red). You will need 9 skeins of 100 grams each for size S/M, or 12 skeins for size L/XL. The yarn is worked on US size 15 circular needles measuring 32 inches, which accommodate the expanding stitch counts required for the oversized construction.

The gauge is established at 2.25 stitches and 3.25 rows per inch when working stockinette stitch on size 15 needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper finished measurements and drape of the completed shrug.

Pattern Details

The slip stitch mesh pattern repeat consists of 6 rows and creates the primary visual and textural element of the shrug. The pattern is written for the smallest size with larger size measurements provided in parentheses throughout. This format allows knitters to easily track which numbers apply to their chosen size. The pattern includes comprehensive abbreviations to guide knitters through all techniques, from basic stitches like knit and purl to more specialized techniques such as slip stitches worked with yarn in front or back, yarn overs, and knit-together decreases.