This open-front shrug is made from two matching rectangles joined at the back and underarms. It is a forgiving first garment because there is no sleeve shaping. Work a swatch and compare it with your shoulder width before making both panels.
Materials
- DK or light-worsted yarn, 700–950 yd depending on size
- 5 mm hook, stitch markers, yarn needle
- ch = chain; dc = double crochet; sc = single crochet; sl st = slip stitch
Gauge: 13 dc × 8 rows = 4 in / 10 cm. Each panel should measure from wrist to wrist when laid flat, and its width should be half your desired back width plus sleeve depth.
Make the panels
- Chain a multiple of 2 plus 3 until the chain measures your chosen panel width.
- Row 1: dc in the fourth ch from hook and in each ch across. Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn.
- Row 2: dc in each stitch across. Repeat until the rectangle measures from one wrist, across the upper arm, to the center back. Make two panels exactly the same size.
- Block both pieces to the same dimensions. Place them side by side with the right sides up. Seam the short top edges together across the center back, leaving a gap at each outer end for the neck opening if desired.
- Fold the joined piece so the seam runs down the center back. Seam each side from the wrist edge toward the body, stopping when the sleeve opening feels comfortable. Try it on before sewing the second side.
- With the garment right side out, work one round of sc around the front opening and lower edge. Add more rounds for a wider band.
Fit notes
For a relaxed fit, allow 2–4 in of ease at the back. If the sleeves feel too wide, seam farther toward the body; if the body pulls, undo part of the seam. Weave ends securely and wash according to the yarn label.
Photo: Annie Spratt via Unsplash.
