A shrug can take many forms. It can be tailored and fitted high on the back or worn open and long. This interpretation is one of the simplest possible sweaters there is. A rectangle, folded and seamed with openings for armholes, transforms into an elegant, short-sleeved cardigan. Take your knitting upscale by treating yourself to a gorgeous yarn like this silvery baby alpaca and silk blend.

Skills Needed
Knit/purl, mattress stitch, picking up and knitting

Finished Measurements
Which size to knit? Shrugs can be worn loose or tight. Try a size that’s about 75 percent of your bust measurement.

Cuff to cuff: 221/471/4, 291/2, 32, 341/2, 37, 393/4, 421/4) inches (56.5 63, 69, 75, 81.5, 87.5, 94, 101, 107.5 cm)

Construction Notes
The shrug is worked as a large rectangle that’s folded in half and seamed partway on both sides, leaving the bottom open. The bottom edge becomes the neck and front band.