Native Shrug

Native Shrug by Ursule Gaylard

What is Being Made

The Native Shrug is a cozy blanket cardigan designed for knitters seeking a comfortable, oversized layering piece. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a wrap-style shrug that drapes elegantly from shoulder to sleeve, offering both warmth and style. The garment features a relaxed fit with dimensions of 38.5" length and 39" width for sizes S/M, and 43" length and 43.5" width for sizes L/XL. An optional 1.5" button closure adds a finishing touch to this versatile cardigan.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs fundamental techniques suitable for knitters with basic experience. The primary construction method uses Stockinette stitch, a foundational knit stitch pattern created by knitting on the right side and purling on the wrong side of your work. This classic stitch creates a smooth, uniform fabric ideal for blanket cardigans. The pattern incorporates slip stitch techniques for refined edges and shaping. Tapestry needle finishing is required for weaving in yarn ends and assembling the garment pieces.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the right-side fabric
• Purl (p) – the reverse stitch used on wrong-side rows
• Stockinette stitch – the primary stitch pattern combining knit and purl rows
• Slip one stitch (sl1) – used for edge definition and shaping

Gauge and Yarn Requirements

The pattern specifies a gauge of 13 stitches and 16 rows measuring 4 inches by 4 inches when worked in Stockinette stitch. This gauge ensures proper fit and drape for the finished garment. The Native Shrug uses chunky weight yarn, creating a quick-knit project with substantial, cozy fabric.

Materials and Needles

This pattern requires 7mm needles in two configurations: a 40-inch circular cable needle for body sections and 7mm double-pointed needles for smaller circumference areas. A tapestry needle suitable for chunky wool is essential for finishing work. The yarn specifications call for Rico Creative Melange Chunky for the main body, requiring 5 balls of 250g (or 6 balls of 300g for larger sizes). The designer's examples showcase colour 038 (Saffron-Magenta) and colour 034 (Turquoise-Cinnamon). Body edging incorporates Rico Essentials Alpaca blend chunky yarn, adding a luxurious textured finish to the cardigan edges.

Difficulty Level

Rated as easy to intermediate, the Native Shrug is accessible to knitters with foundational skills while offering enough structure to engage intermediate-level crafters. The straightforward Stockinette stitch construction combined with chunky yarn weight allows for quick progress and visible results.