This is a free pattern for a beautiful, comfy shrug that is relatively easy to make and has no seams! I used Lion Brand Homespun Yarn in Windsor, a great color choice for spring- reminds of the beach side! But of course can be worked up in the many other colors Homespun Yarn has to offer for any time of year.
I love making and wearing shrugs, but a lot of patterns I find for them require making the pieces separately and then sewing them together. Personally, I hate seams and I will do anything in my power to avoid them, so I came up with this seamless pattern that uses chain stitches to start the second arm and “adds on” to the front of the shrug instead of making it separately.
I made this shrug on commission a couple of months ago before I started blogging, so I don’t have step-by-step pics for this particular shrug. But since then, I have made a similar shrug that goes together the same way as this one, and I have included those step-by-step pics for that shrug at the end of this pattern. Please note if the direction I’m working in the pictures seems jacked up, it’s because I crochet left-handed. Don’t pay so much attention to the direction as to the concept of what the picture shows.
This pattern is roughly a size large, but it’s not form-fitting so it should work well for anyone in the M-XL range. I’ve added some ideas to make the shrug bigger or smaller at the end of the pattern.
If you decide to try it out and have problems working it up, just leave a comment and I will be more than happy to guide you!
No-Seam Crochet Shrug Pattern
Yarn: 4 Skeins Lion Brand Homespun (185 yd/169 m per skein) in Windsor
Supplies:
Crochet Hook size Q / 15.75mm
Marker
Yarn Needle
Scissors
Large Button (optional)
Crochet Abbreviations Used in This Pattern:
ch = chain
r(s) = round(s)
sl st = slip stitch
st(s) = stitch(es)
dc = double crochet
inc = increase
dec = decrease
Please note: The notation in parentheses at the end of each line of directions is simply a count of how many stitches you should have at the end of working that particular line of directions to help you keep track of your stitch count. For example, in the direction line “Round 1: ch 2; dc 1 r (16 sts)”, the (16sts) is the stitch count.
Gauge: 8 dc = 6 inches and 4 rows of dc = 4 inches. Use whatever size crochet hook needed to achieve this gauge. For best results, please check your gauge before beginning this pattern.
Directions:
Entire shrug is worked up holding 2 strands of yarn together.
Sleeve 1:
Ch 17, join r with sl st (16 sts)
Round 1: ch 2; dc 1 r; join r with sl st (16 sts)
Rounds 2-15: inc 1 dc; dc r (30 sts at r 15)
Rounds 16-20: inc 2 dc; dc r (40 sts at r 20)
Back:
Row 1-10: ch 2; 19 dc, turn (20 sts)
In more detail: you chain two, work 19 dc in the next 19 spaces on the sleeve, then turn. Do this 9 more times. In other words, instead of working in the round like you were when you formed the arm, you are now turning your work to form the backside of the shrug, like you are making an afghan.
Sleeve 2:
Loosely Chain 21; join r with sl st (40 sts)
In more detail: Once you have the back finished, you do this chain off one corner of the back, then attach the chain on the other corner of the back. This forms a round to start working the second sleeve off of.
Rounds 1-5: dec 2 dc; dc r (30 sts at r 5)
Rounds 6-20: dec 1 dc; dc r (16 sts at r 20)
sl st 1 r (to match cuff on sleeve 1)
Tie off and weave in ends.
Front:
Join yarn on bottom of back; dc 5 rs.
In more detail: Tie onto the bottom of the back. Work dcs up the first sleeve, across the top/neck, down the second sleeve, and back to where you started at the bottom of the back. That’s one round. Do this 4 more times.
Tie off and weave in ends.
Button (optional):
Run 1 foot of yarn through button holes; tie onto the middle-left of the front 1 inch from seam.
Weave in ends.
Ideas to make this shrug smaller (XS-M):
Follow the pattern as written, but use a smaller hook and only one strand of yarn instead of two so the shrug isn’t super-bulky. Keep in mind that this might make the weave a little bit tighter.
OR
Use the same hook size and 2 strands of yarn, but start the pattern with 2 stitches less, then follow the pattern as it’s written as far as increasing/decreasing, but it will be 2 stitches less than shown all around (stitch counts at the end should be 2 stitches less than shown). Also, remove the last 2-4 rows on the first sleeve and the first 2-4 rows on the second sleeve, and 2 rows across the back.
Ideas to make this shrug larger (1X-3X):
Follow the pattern as written, but use a larger hook. Yes, there are larger hooks than Q… I’ve never seen them in brick-and-mortar stores, but they do have them online. Keep in mind that it will make the weave a bit looser.
OR
Add 2-4 rows to the back, 2-4 more rounds to the front, and 2-4 more stitches to the sleeve rounds.
Here are the step-by-step pics. Again, these pics are not from the same shrug you see above, but a shrug that I’ve made since that goes together the same way. The pictures show the pattern being worked from left to right because I am left handed. It can be worked either left to right or right to left and achieve the same results.
Starting the back off of sleeve 1: work in rows instead of rounds. In other words, once you finish the first sleeve, start the back by working back and forth and turning your work instead of working in the round and not turning your work as you did for the sleeve.
Once you finish the back, in order to form the loop for sleeve 2, chain off one edge of the back you just finished…
…and attach that chain to the other edge of the back to form a loop. This forms the round for sleeve 2. Sleeve 2 is worked in the opposite direction of sleeve 1, which is what makes this shrug no seam.
Once you finish sleeve 2, cut and tie off your yarn, then attach it to the bottom of the back as shown above to start the front.
Work up one sleeve, across the top/neck, down the other sleeve and across the back for 5 rounds as shown above.
Once again, if you have any problems please contact me and I will be more than happy to help!
Enjoy and thanks for stopping by! 
Michelle
Love it! Keep the patterns coming!
Thanks Susan- I most certainly will!
Thanks for the great pattern
You’re welcome Edie! I’m glad you like it
Hello! I’m a bit of a new crocheter and I was simply wondering if you could clarify a bit switching from arm 1 to the back. Thank you!
Sure thing Reagan!
All you do is stop working in the round and start turning your work and working back and forth, like you are making an afghan.
Does that make sense? Let me know!
Michelle
How do I up size to a 3x or larger. I love to make this for myself and some of my plus friends.
Hi Antonetta!
I
Hi Michelle, I really love your patter and I am a more advanced crocheter that is now learning to follow patterns, sorry if I sound stupid but where do you start with making this pattern, i would love to make it because it has not seams,..kinda new at this..thanks..looking for trying this and more of your patterns..Kellie
Hi Kellie!
I’m glad you like the pattern!
And no, your question doesn’t sound stupid in the least- I really, really wish I would have taken pictures of this while in the process of making it because you are not the only one who has had questions about it! Unfortunately, I made this before I started blogging so I didn’t see any need to do that at the time. I may do a “summer” version of this shrug and this time take pictures during the process so there will be a visual guide for how to do this.
To answer your question, you start with arm 1 and follow the directions throughout. In other words, you start at the cuff on arm 1, work your way up the arm to the shoulder, work across the back, start arm 2 with the chain at the shoulder to start working the sleeve at the shoulder, then work your way back down arm 2 to the cuff, tie off, then tie onto the bottom of the back, work up arm1, across the top of the back, down arm2, and across the bottom of the back for 5 rounds.
I hope this helps! If it doesn’t or if you need more guidance please let me know!
-Michelle
Thank you Michelle for replying to me…I am going to start that pattern today..I am learning this on my own, none of my friends crochet so there is nobody that can help me with patterns. I am so happy you got back to me..do you have any easy patterns for cardigans, well they dont have to be beginners and am more advanced than that..looking forward to more of your patterns. Thanks and have a great day!!!
You are very welcome Kellie! Let me know if you have any other questions while you work this up.
Since you are the only one of your friends that crochet, maybe as you become more skilled you can teach them and they will be hooked too (pun intended).
Michelle
Hi Michelle, I can’t find this yarn here in Australia and am having trouble searching for an equivalent. Can you please tell me what ply it is, thought I would give this a go. Thanks Veronica (Melbourne Australia)
Hi Veronica!
According to the information I found here, it is 13 ply.
I’m glad you like the pattern!
Thanks,
Michelle
this is a great pattern
Thank you Becky! I’m glad you like it!
Hi Michelle, I really love your shrug, I am having a hard time trying to connect the back and arm 2 . Also I don’t understand how the front is connected. I crochet arm 1 and 10 rows of the back, it does not look wide enough for a back. Please tell me what I am doing wrong. I took a photo, and I can’t figure out how to post it.
Hi Doreen!
I’m glad you like my shrug! I really wish I took pictures during the process of making this shrug so people can get a better visual about how to make it, but I made this shrug before I started blogging so it never crossed my mind. I can understand how this can be hard to visualize by just the directions. I will do my best to help you! Let’s take it one step at the time.
The Back: Yes, it’s going to look too small at the point you are at in the process. Once you get to the front (last step; don’t worry about it now) it will all come together and make sense.
Start Arm 2 from Back: When you get to the arm 2 part of the pattern, you do this part ( Chain 21; join r with sl st ) off of where you ended the back. In other words, you finish the back, chain 21 off the corner of the back, and join that chain to the other corner of the back. This forms a round in which you start working arm 2.
Back: Once you finish arm 2, you cut the yarn tie off and weave in ends. Reattach the yarn on the bottom of the back on the front side of the shrug, work up across the front of arm1, across the top of the back, down across the front of arm to arm2, and across the bottom of the back for 5 rounds.
Does this help? If not or you get stuck further along the process, just post again and I’ll be more than happy to help!
I am planning to make a summer version of this shrug, and when I do I will take pictures of the process, so push comes to shove if it gets to the point where you can’t progress without visuals, they are coming soon! 
Thanks for your post and I hope this helps!
Michelle
So…. make another one! LOL. Seriously, I have a hard time following written instructions, much better with diagrammes and photos that help to visualise it.
I will. I promise. Right after Christmas.
Hey Michelle,
I can’t wait to start this! I love the yarn, but I’m wanting to make it in a worsted weight yarn and I need to increase the size to about a 2x size (bust measurement 52″). I reading your instructions, I think I can adjust the size, but I’m not sure about doing that AND changing it to worsted weight…any suggestions?
~Melissa
Hi Melissa!
This pattern will work well with worsted weight… it won’t be as heavy and the stitches will look looser and more open, so if you don’t mind that kind of look, I’d just make the size adjustments as you planned and go for it!
If you do want a tighter stitch, I would go down a hook size and make up a gauge swatch, compare it to the gauge I have in the pattern, and adjust the pattern accordingly.
Does this help? Let me know what you decide to do and how it worked out for you. And of course, if you need any more help, feel free to post again!
Michelle
Thank you Michelle, I will continue working from the back. I am trying to visualized it like I do
when I am reading a book, so hopefully this will work. I am looking forwardd to seeing your
summer version of this shrug. Thanks again.
You’re very welcome Doreen! Glad I could help
how can i change the yarn weight and hook size to keep the sizing correct ? i would like to make for summer in a light weight or ww yarn
Hi Dianna!
Choose the yarn and hook size you want to use, then make up a swatch and compare it to the gauge in the pattern, and make adjustments accordingly.
For example, the pattern gauge is 8 dc = 6 inches and 4 rows of dc = 4 inches using a Q hook and 2 bulky weight yarn strands held together. Say, for example, you want to use worsted weight yarn and a size L hook, and you made up a swatch that measures 6 inches by stitches and 4 inches, and you end up with 12 dc = 6 inches and 6 rows = 4 inches. In this example, this means for every 1 stitch in the pattern is 1 1/2 stitches and for each row in the pattern is 1 1/4 rows with the new yarn/hook. For stitch increases/decreases, I would alternate between increasing/decreasing 1 stitch and 2 stitches for each row.
I hope this helps! I know doing this can be confusing, and you have to do a little math, but this pattern is really forgiving and is not made to fit snugly, so however you do it, it should still come out nicely.
Let me know if you need any more help and how it turns out!
Michelle
Hi! This is such a lovely piece! I really want to make it but the pattern still is confusing to me (I read all of your comments above helping other readers). I’ll follow your blog to see your summer version of the shrug with pictures! I’m a visual learner and I’m just not seeing (from the given pattern) how everything is supposed to come together. Thank you!
You’re welcome!
I’m new to writing patterns so I’m sure that has something to do with it too. I hope to start work on the summer shrug next week! 
Oh wonderful! I *completely* understand the toughness of writing a pattern. I’m just now starting to get try it out and it’s hard! It’s like you have to: stitch, then write, stitch then write, count, write, stitch!!! LOL!
Thank you!
I’d like to make this with elbow length arms and in a light weight yarn for summer wear – maybe only using one strand – how would I do this?
Hi Mariann!
To get the sleeves elbow length, I’d skip the first 10 strands in the first sleeve and the last 10 strands in the second sleeve.
To use one strand instead of two, I’d use a smaller hook (unless you want a big fishnet weave look) and use the gauge measurements to calculate your gauge and use that to add stitches as needed.
Hope that helps!
Michelle, I love the no-seam crochet shrug. I’m sorry but I’m confuse. I understand how to do Arm 1 but I don’t understand how to contiune to start the back. It says to ch 2 then 9 dc but where do I do the 9 dc. Thank you Jo
Hi Jo!
I’m glad you like the shrug!
Let me see if I can help you here.
You do the 9 dc where you finished arm 1. Once you start turning, that creates the back of the shrug.
Hope this helps! If you have any more questions, feel free to post again!
Michelle
Hi,
I’ve been interested in this pattern for a while but decided to finish some other projects first. Now I’m looking to start this one. However I’ve run into a sizing issue. Do you have any suggestions for small or medium sizes…. I ‘m looking to make one for myself and one for my mother… Thanks so much
Hi Amber!
If you look at the end of the directions, there are some suggestions on how to alter it to fit smaller sizes.
Thanks for your interest in this pattern!
Lovely shrug and pattern
Thank you Anne! I appreciate your feedback!
I can’t wait to try this!!!!! I have a ton of leftover homespun yarn that this would be perfect for :)!
Thanks for your reply Kim! I’d love to see what you come up with using different colors of yarn, so when you finish it please send me a picture!
It’s probably just going to be black since that’s what I have the most of. I’m only using one strand and it seems to be a tad too big for me right now. Like it’s swimming on me (the arm). I’ve ripped it out for now. How can I make it fit a little bit more snugly?
I’d try not increasing as “hard” (add a stitch every 2-3 rows instead of every row) and see how that works. You may have to work a couple of row and try it on as you go to make sure it’s giving you the fit you want and not getting too tight.
This pattern was designed with loose fitting arms to blend into the rest of the shrug when worn, so if you do it this way it may not look/fit the way it is in the pictures… you may have to add a few more rows to the front part in order for the shrug to button, but if you want an open look it won’t be a problem.
Let me know if you need any more help, and I’d still love to see pics of the end result!
Thank you so much for your help, Michelle. I think that I’m going to try and start with a chain of 10 so that the cuff of the sleeve fits more snugly. How can I make sure that the other arm matches that change?
Keep track of the rows, stitch counts and increases you do for the first arm, then simply work the second arm in reverse (decrease instead of increase) for the same amount of rows, and you should have it!
How many DC should it take in the 1st round of the last 5 rounds?
Hi Jesse!
To be honest, I never counted them because at the time I didn’t see the need to (now I do).
I’m sorry I don’t have that information for you.
To find this out, just count your stitches as your work your first round. As long as you DC one in every DC around, whatever count you end up with will be correct.
Let me know how it turns out!
Michelle
I love this pattern, but I found that I ran out of yarn a bit early, even after using a smaller hook. I am going to try again but subtract two stitches in each row. It’ll make the over all garment smaller, but I am a size medium, so it should be ok (I’m hoping!) Thank you so much for sharing your pattern with the world
It is a lovely piece.
Thank you! I’m glad you like the pattern. Are you using the Lion Brand Homespun yarn? If so, I wonder if they are making the skeins smaller and that’s why you’re running out of yarn… the skeins I used for this pattern were a few years old. I’ll check on the label for the skeins I have left for the weight and length, and update my post with the info.
skeins are smaller I needed 5 skeins using a P hook
I bought the yarn I used in this pattern a few years ago, so there’s a chance they put less yarn in each skein these days. I think I’ll bump up the skein count to 4 just to be on the safe side. Thanks for the tip!
Love it going to make…..
Dear Michelle,
would you please help me to adjust the size please… i have no idea how to do that. i’d love to make this shrug for my Mum as a christmas present and she needs about a 2xl size. will it help if i d take measurement? or perhaps, if i’d add few more stitches everywhere…?
by the way, this shrug is brilliant
thanks for your help in advance 😉
Vicki x
Hi Vicki,
Thank you for your compliment on the shrug- I’m so glad that you like it!
You have the right idea- just add a few stitches everywhere. If you could get a similar article of clothing from her to compare it to, that would help guide you as well.
This shrug is very flexible when it comes to sizing, so if you get it in the ballpark you should be good!
Thanks again and let me know if need any more help!
Michelle
I am just curious, you use 2 stands throughout the shrug but it says I’ll need 3 skeins, is that a typo or how exactly does that work?
Hey Jess!
It’s not a typo- you just split the last skein into 2 balls. Of course, if you don’t want to do that you can buy an extra skein, but you will have a lot of yarn left over
Michelle
Thanks so much Michelle! I can’t wait to get started on this! It looks so comfy!
You’re welcome Jess!
I would love to make this but I can’t read patterns for the life of me I have no idea why. I NEED TO MAKE THIS!!!!
<3
I’m new to crocheting clothing, but I’ve done afghans for over forty years…yikes. ……I found even after I dropped to a P hook (I crochet medium to tight tension) I ended up with LONG arms and a TIGHT circle for the body that didn’t cover the boobs. I understand the smaller hook making the body tighter, but I cannot imagine how long the arms will be with a Q hook. Maybe I can crochet the arms with P and the body with Q?
Hi Bowen!
Yes, that sounds like a good idea! You can also take out a few rows for the arms. Just figure out how many rows you need to take out to make the arms the right length, then use that number to skip a row every so often while you work each arm. For the row you skip, double up on the stitches you add/subtract depending on which arm you’re working.
I hope this helps! Let me know if I can be of any more help!
Michelle
Hi I love the look of this pattern and it looks fairly easy to make. I was wondering if you used a pattern or if you could tell me how to make it a smaller size?
or even if you could tell me the aprox measurements this would fit.
Hi Allison!
This is the first pattern I’ve ever created, so I apologize for it being lacking as far as size adjustments.
I would recommend taking out 2 stiches per row all around, ignore the last 5 rows of the first arm and the first 5 rows of the second arm, and take out 4 rows across the back.
This pattern fits loosely around the upper arms and is very forgiving size-wise, so this should get you started.
I hope this helps! Let me know if I can be of further assistance.
Michelle
Thanks so much for such a fast reply!!
It on my to be made list – i’m still practicing some other projects.
I made it with a size p to down size it a little and loved it. Made it with a size F and Caron simply soft and it looks like it should fit a two year old. Super cute!
Hi Jessey!
Thanks for sharing how you modified the pattern to fit your needs! I’m glad it worked out so well for you. Feel free to share pictures if you’d like- I’d love to see the results!
Thanks again!
Michelle
Hi I’m totaling confused with your pattern. There aren’t enough details. I finished the 1st arm but I’m stuck on the back. Say ch 2 9 dc where do you put the 9 dc? In the same ch 2 space or the next ch space or do you put a dc in the next 9 spaces. Then you say to turn, well do you ch 2,again and dc back 9 spaces or all the way back around the arm. And do the 1-10 rows go from the from back to the front? Could you please give more step by step directions
Hi Altha,
I am sorry you are having trouble following the pattern.
When you start the back, you chain two, work 19 (not 9) dc in the next 19 spaces, then turn. Do this 9 more times. In other words, instead of working in the round like you were when you formed the arm, you are now turning your work to form the backside of the shrug.
Does that help? Let me know if you need any more clarification.
Michelle
Hello, I love this but having trouble with the second sleeve. I did everything you said but when I work in the round with the second sleeve it covers the arm hole so I ripped it out and did it then turned my work. kept turning and it worked that way but i start doing 2 double crochet then1double. but the hole looks bigger then my 1st sleeve and I’m trying to visualize it while going along but I can’t, starting it the sleeve is going Ontop of the 2db crochet and not behind it like the other sleeve. does that make sense? I need your help!!! I want to make this for today, I’ll keep trying till I hear from you. thank you so much. one more thing at the end of every pattern you have like (sls 40 r) does that mean I have to sls 40 all the way around the sleeve? So every time you say that, does this mean I have to slst it after every one as much times as you say? Hope.I’m making sense, please.help me!
Hi Angie,
I’m sorry you are having trouble with the pattern.
Please note the following directions from the pattern for starting the second arm:
Chain 21; join r with sl st (40 sts)
So in other words, once you finish the back, you chain 21 off the last stitch, join that chain where you began the last row on the back, and that forms the round for the second arm. You work around working dcs in the back stitches and the chain stitches.
The stitches at the end of each line of directions where it is applicable to have a stitch count (such as the 40 sts in the directions above) is where I noted how many stitches you should have after completing that line of directions. I will update the pattern directions to note that.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any further assistance.
Michelle
Thank you so much for getting back to me.I think I figured out the 2nd arm. Now I cut off and started in the middle of the back and went around 3times so far, but the sleeves under my arm hang real low and my back is still high. is this normal? I think I have to do it over since the front of the shrug is waving out, and in your pic it’s straight, idk what I’m doing wrong, :\ wish there was a way to send you a pic. sorry for asking so much. Thank you for your patients and time!
Hi Angie,
I’m glad my directions got you through the second sleeve!
The shrug is loose fitting in the arms. In the pics, I do have it buttoned/fitted over the bust, so if you don’t have it buttoned it is going to hang and droop a bit, as any open sweater/shrug will.
You can send me a pic!
Just email it to [email protected].
Michelle
Hi there me again,
Thank you for getting back to me. I did the first sleeve, ch 2 and 19 dc. Now you say to turn. You didn’t want us to chain 2 after each row correct? Also the back is only 10 inches long. I’m about to start on the 2nd sleeve. I understand the directions basically are a reverse of the 1st sleeve. Should I adjust the back to make if longer? Which I can do. What about the front the directions don’t make sence to me. I’m sorry to be asking so many questions. I normally don’t have this much trouble. But I don’t get it. Please it just seems like there are some steps missing.
Hi Altha,
I am sorry you are still having trouble with the pattern. I assure you that there are no steps missing; it’s just the way this shrug is put together is not how one would normally think about how to put one together, so it’s just not intuitive at all and can be a bit tricky to grasp if you’ve never done a shrug this way before. I made the shrug pictured before I started this blog, so I didn’t take step-by-step pictures of it as I made it, which I think would have been really helpful for people to get their heads around how it all comes together. Also, the pattern is “shorthand” and I should have included a longer version explaining the steps more thoroughly since there are no pictures.
Okay, let’s start with the back. The back directions are as follows:
Row 1-10: ch 2; 19 dc, turn (20 sts)
So yes, I did want you to chain 2 for each row. But, since you already did the back, I wouldn’t rip it out and redo it as long as it looks reasonably square and straight.
Yes, the back is only 10 inches long. As I’m sure you noticed the sleeve at the shoulder is very big; much of the sleeve will stretch around your back, side, and front when you wear it. Like I said, the pattern is not intuitive at all; but it all comes together and once it’s done and you wear it you’ll see it.
Okay, now the front:
Join yarn on bottom of back; dc 5 rs.
Tie onto the bottom of the back. Work dcs up the first sleeve, across the top/neck, down the second sleeve, and back to where you started at the bottom of the back. That’s one round. Do this 4 more times.
I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any more questions.
Michelle
OMG, OMG I did it!!! YIPPY!!! Thank you so much. Your last instructions to me did the trick. I made one. It did come out a bit small though, which works out because the person I made it for is small framed. For myself I’m going to make the back wider and longer. I’m going to try to send you a picture. Thanks for all your help.
You’re very much welcome!!! I’m glad it worked out and I look forward to the picture!
I sent the pic to [email protected]
Is that correct?
Yes, and it looks awesome! Great job!!!
It’s gorgeous! I’m actually looking for a sweater pattern but as soon as I’m done with it I’ll start on the shrug. Thank you for sharing the pattern.
You’re welcome Sylwia! I’m glad that you like it
I have never tried clothing before, but I fell in love with your pattern. I will be using Homespun, but I need a size 2X. can you help?
Hi Martina!
I’m glad you like the pattern!
This pattern is very forgiving size-wise, and it also depends on how you would like it to fit. I would suggest adding 2-4 rows to the back and at least a couple more rounds to the front if this is for a big-chested person.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
Love that it covers the chest area. Going to start on one of many on the 26th. Thank you for posting.
You’re welcome Carmen!
Thanks for the feedback!
Your pattern is absolute genius! I usually avoid garments, but having not seams sounds great. As I read the pattern, it is hard to picture, but I’m sure it will be easier when I actually start making it — next year/ next week
Thank you very much for this pattern. Did you get around to making another one so you could show the work-in-progress?
Hi Brenda,
Thank you for your kind words
It is hard to picture because the pattern is not intuitive at all, but if you follow the directions and don’t think about it too much, it will all come together. 
Yes, I am going to start another shrug similar to this one right after Christmas so I can show the work in progress. It may not be exactly the same stitch by stitch. but it will be put together the same way.
Thanks again!
I love this shrug! I started the shrug this afternoon and got confused about what to do after Arm 1, I finally decided to read the messages and am back on track. Do you think it would be possible to incorporate your answers to some of the questions into the pattern. All of your answers are right on point. It might help some of us with pattern block. Keep up the great work and thank you for the pattern.
I’m subscribing!
Leah
Hi Leah!
I’m glad you love the shrug and thank you for subscribing! And thank you for your suggestion about incorporating some of my answers into the pattern- I have thought about it before, but just never got around to it. I will do it ASAP!
Looks good.. Want to try.. can you give an idea about the Gauge, want to try with a different yarn..
Hi Tua,
The Gauge is included in the pattern.
Hi,i love this pattern & i want to do it but i cant understand this pattern. I have one more Q that what is the Entire shrug is worked up holding 2 strands of yarn together means..and how can i start this pattern?Or send me step by step instructions so i can make it..Will you please send me video of this pattern if any available? Thanks will wait for your reply.
Hi Anjali!
I’m glad you love the pattern! Let’s see if I can help here.
The “Q” part of the pattern is the size hook you use- a size Q hook.
The entire shrug is worked up holding 2 strands of yarn together means that instead of using just one strand of yarn, you use two strands, and you hold the two strands together while you crochet. Does that make more sense?
As far as a step-by-step instructions, I really can’t offer any more detail than what is already posted. I am working on another shrug that is put together similar to this one, and once I get to the point where I have all the pictures of how it’s put together, I will be posting it- I’m hoping by mid-month.
I hope that helps, at least a little- please feel free to ask more questions as you go along.
Michelle
Thanks for youer reply…I will try it…:)
I really like this pattern. I’m just about done with my 2nd sleeve. I might be confusing myself, but is the 1st sleeve suppose to be the left sleeve and the 2nd sleeve the right sleeve? I’m new in making clothing so I just want to make sure I get this right. Thanks.
Hi Krystine!
I’m glad you like the pattern!
This may sound kinda weird, but there really isn’t a left or right sleeve… the shrug is symmetrical, so it will fit the same way no matter which sleeve goes on what arm. I only indicate a “first” and a “second” sleeve to avoid confusion when making the shrug; once it’s finished, it really doesn’t matter anymore.
Does that make sense? Let me know!
Michelle
Hi, Do you chain two after each row and then at the end of the row join wit a slip stitch?
Thanks,Renee
Hi Renee!
If you are talking about the back, chain two, but don’t join with a slip stitch. If you are talking about the sleeve or front rounds, I didn’t do that for this pattern.There is much debate in the crochet community about whether to chain after each round when working in the round, but IMO I think either way is fine.If you’d like to do it for this pattern, keep an eye on the sleeve length because it might make them a bit longer.
I hope that helps!
Michelle
Hi Michelle,
I made three of these shrugs so far, for my mom, sister and niece. Am working on one for myself right now. The pattern is flexible if you’re willing to go with it. I find it helpful to try the piece on the wearer a few times to see if the sleeve will need an extra row or two, and if the wearer wants any extra rows on the final “circle” rows that form the front, collar and peplum part of the back. I used a P hook, and it did take more yarn because of my smaller stitches. This shrug is incredibly warm! Perfect for Winter Storm Hercules!
Cynthia
Hi Cynthia!
Thank you so much for the feedback on my pattern- it is invaluable to others who want to adjust it to fit their needs. And I’m happy to hear you’re putting it to such good use!
I love this design…as does my daughter….so I want to make it for her…..Upon closer look at the pattern and comments, I see that I need to make major adjustments for her x small-small size .My crochet skills are prob at an intermediate level. but I am at a loss when it comes to gauge when changing yarn and hook size.
What do you suggest I do to bring the size down?
Could I consider using Homespun Thick and Quick, single strand, with a smaller hook….K or larger, but not Q. And follow directions as given?
Am I correct in thinking that the above changes will change the gauge?
Help!
I want to take this on vacation for the car ride….have bought the yarn…it is lovely.
I will watch for your response..
thank you
Nancy
Hi Nancy!
I’m glad you and your daughter like the pattern! You are correct in using a smaller sized hook will bring the gauge and therefore the size of the shrug down. Use a single strand of yarn and follow directions as given. I would try it on your daughter as you work for sleeve and back length. I really like the Homespun yarn too
Does this help? Let me know if you have any more questions and have a great vacation!
Thank you for your response, it encourages me.
And In reading the instructions again, just now, I see that there are some suggestions for making the adjustments that I need….Have they always been there?
I hate it when I ask a question that has already been answered…that is a ‘stupid’ question…
thank you for your patience.
I will have to take measurements to keep on track for this.
Will try to let you know of the progress and results…
I am looking forward to making this.
And looking forward to warmer temps….most anywhere south of Minnesota.
It was -12 when I got up today, that is 10 degrees warmer than yesterday!!!
😉
I’m glad I could be of help.
Here in Nor Cal we have been considerably warmer than you poor folks back east… highs in the 60’s, lows in the 30’s. That’s pretty typical for our winters here. We did have a cold patch last month with lows in the 20’s; that’s about as cold as it ever gets here. Most folks that have always lived here don’t really know what cold is, but I used to work in a warehouse freezer where the temps were -10, so I have a reasonable idea.
I just found this pattern today an I love it. I made it using Red heart worsted weight and size N hook had to add a few stiches an a few extra rows but it turned out beautiful. I found the pattern to be real easy. I ran out of yarn only had one skein, still need to put a couple of rows around. As soon as the snow gets cleared off roads will get more yarn to finish this one and make another one. Thank you for this pattern.
You’re welcome Shirley! I’m glad you enjoyed it and found it easy to make and modify. Thank you for your feedback!
I am in love with your shrug and I really want to give it a go. The comments have been very helpful for upsizing it, but I am wondering how many skiens to buy for a 2-3x? Thanks so much for your hard work and quick answers.
Hi Amanda!
That’s a hard question to answer, since I never made it in that size and a lot of it depends on your gauge. I’d say buy 6 skeins of yarn. I always buy more than what I think I need and keep my receipt- I’d rather have more than what I need and return what I don’t use then be short and have to run back to store and hope they still have the yarn in stock in the same color lot! You will more than likely at least go through 4. If you use 4 and you have only a little ways to go to finish, then split the 5th one into 2 balls so you don’t have to break into the 6th one. If you use 4 and you have quite a bit to go to finish, then use the last two.
I hope that helps!
Let me know how many skeins you actually end up using.
Michelle
What mm- size is the Q hook?
15.75mm
I’ll update the pattern with that info! Thanks!
Awesome shrug! Thank you so much for the pattern.
You’re welcome Laurie!
Thanks for the feedback!
So when you start arm 2 and connect you don’t do 40 dc first then start your decrease
No, because the way I wrote the pattern, you would end up with one sleeve slightly longer than the other
When you make the chain and connect, that is your 40 stitches, so it does start at the same width as where you left off at sleeve 1.
I hope that makes sense; let me know if it doesn’t!
Do you join each round with a slip stitch or keep going round and round?
Hi Marilyn!
Just keep going round and round
I know a lot of people say that this will make the rounds “uneven”, but when I did it that way with this pattern, I didn’t have any problems.
Hi
Going round and round does make it uneven but with this pattern I don’t think it matters. It is very fforgiving, and easy going, a shrug. 😉
Finished the shrug. I did the sleeves and back with a p hook and the front with a Q. Short arms and big chest. I will send a picture when I get a button. Thanks for the pattern.
You’re welcome Marilyn!
Looking forward to the picture!
I don’t see an option for adding pics….what am I missing?
Hi Nancy!
You don’t see an option to attach pics in the comments because there isn’t one available for the comments unless you upload it to an online picture server first. You can email the picture to me as an attachment at [email protected].
I look forward to seeing it and I hope it fits your daughter!
Hi Michelle
love this pattern…so so pretty. so now i would like to attempt it. found the yarn BUT there are two types of homespun yarn by Lion’s. which one do i use? one skein is bigger than the other. also in the beginning of this patter you stated that the pattern is worked using two strands…so just to understand correctly, am i working with two skeins of wool all the time. i looked at some of the pics you posted and there is only a single attached to the crochet hook.
thanks
ange
Hi Angie!
Okay first off- the shrug that is used in the demo pics is NOT the same shrug… it is this shrug: http://www.thepaintedhinge.com/2014/01/17/sweet-spring-shrug-no-seam-crochet-pattern/ Please read the explanation of why this is before the demo pics and then you’ll understand.
The Homespun yarn I used in this pattern is this one: http://www.lionbrand.com/yarns/homespun.htm
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any more questions.
Michelle
Lion Brand makes 2 Homespun yarns….Homespun and Homespun Thick and Quick.
Homespun is what was used in the original version, using 2 strands.
H. Thick and Quick is a bulky yarn
I have finished this shrug, using the suggestions for an xs-m size. I used a single strand of Homespun, and a K hook. I added 2 rows to the front/back finish. won’t know if the sizing is correct until my daughter’s birthday in March, but it looks good at this point. will try to include a picture.
Nancy
Thank you for sharing such a lovely pattern! I too find most patterns for shrugs too difficult or with too many seams. This is a great way to easily make something beautiful to wear. Thanks again!
Thank you Ana!
I, too, hate seams and patterns that are too difficult. Most of my patterns are a result of seeing other patterns and thinking “There’s just gotta be an easier way to do this!!!”.
Hi, thank you for this lovely pattern! Im a bit of a novice and this is nice and simple to follow. The only bit I’m struggling with is the end of the second sleeve. I can’t get it to look like the first sleeve. I slip stitched in the back loop of each stich but it doesn’t look right. Just can’t work it out! Any extra help will be greatly received. I’m hoping to have it finished tomorrow for my mums birthday. Thanks x
Hi Jade!
I’m glad you like the pattern!
The easiest way I can recommend on solving your dilemma is to tie on and sc or dc a round on the end of each sleeve. That way, they are guaranteed to look the same!
I hope this helps! Let me know if I can be of further guidance.
Hello, I’m a newbie an am trying to finish the second sleeve. It is much narrower then the first sleeve. I’m having the problem when the round goes from 30 sts to 16 sts. at round 6. I’m wondering it if it should be 30 sts from round 1-15. Help before I unravel!
Hey Karen!
I’m sorry you’re having troubles with the pattern! When you started round 6, are you doing one decrease per round instead of 2 decreases in rows 1-5? At round 6 you should have 30 stitches and at round 20 you should have 16 stitches if you do one decrease per round for rounds 6-20.
Does that help? If not, let me know!
Oh boy, I think I did the first sleeve incorrectly; inc 1 dc and inc 2 dc is PER round? and the same applies to the dec 1 dc and dec 2 dc? PER round? if so it is at the beginning of each round? Thank you so much!
Hi Karen,
Yes, it is per round. It doesn’t really matter where you do the inc/dec, as long as you do it per round.
If the first sleeve looks okay and fits well, you still might be able to do the second sleeve to match without having to completely start over… just count the stitches in each round for the first sleeve as best you can and try to duplicate it in reverse for the second sleeve. This pattern is very forgiving, so if you’re off a stitch or two, you won’t be able to tell. So, unless the Stitch Police stop by, you should be good to go
the first sleeve was more like a dolman sleeve. I just finished unraveling the whole piece. It just gives me more of a chance to get better to start it over. I’m most certainly post a photo when I’m done. Thanks so much for your help!
You’re welcome! If you need any more help during the second go-around, let me know!
I love it. I am working on one now…I would like tighter sleeves and a drapier back..and suggestions! Thanks for a great pattern..very well done and easy to follow and understand. Keep them coming!!
I just need to put on the last 5 rows and its done! The sleeves are great! I’m thinking about going down a size or two in hooks for the last 5 rows for a bit of a contrast and possibly draw it up a bit for my daughter who might need a tad smaller size. I’ll see when she tries it on. And just fyi, I used the Q hook but only 1 nobby yarn strand from LB Homespun.
Wow you worked it back up fast!
I’m glad it came out this time and thanks for the update!
I’m glad you love it!
Tighter sleeves aren’t a problem… just inc 1 st anywhere you would inc 2 sts. The back, well, that’s going to be more of a challenge… the back works off 1/2 of the first sleeve, so if the sleeve is smaller, the back will be too. You could try working more than 5 rounds in the front. I’m going to have to think about that one!
I love this pattern! It was so easy to adapt for my toddler. She will be rocking it for Easter!
Thank you for the wonderful feedback! Rock on!
Thank you Michelle; this is a lovely shrug. You are very talented!
Thank you Minerva!
Absolut genius! 😀 And thanks for sharing! I will absolutly try this pattern! 😀
Well thank you Inger!
I’m glad you like it!
So I am making this and I’m seeing that the pattern is to small in the cuff and the length and the sleeve is to short… 20 r’s are not enough even just with one yarn, even for an S. I had to add many more r’s and I’m not that that long of a girl….
Did you compare your gauge to the gauge in the pattern? Usually people tell me the sleeves are loose/long
I work in centimeters….
I’m up to 30 rw in one sleeve and still is not enought…
Convert the gauge I have listed in the pattern from inches to centimeters, then compare your gauge. I am thinking your gauge must be very tight compared to most, because I’ve had dozens of other people make this pattern and no one has ever had the problem of the sleeves being too short/tight. Please try to compare your gauge to the one listed in the pattern and add stiches and rows as needed.
I love this shrug!! I was trying to figure out how I could make it with just a cap or short sleeve. Have you tried doing it that way?
Hi June!
I’m glad you love the shrug! I have had people make this shrug with a half sleeve… just omit the first 10 rounds on the first sleeve and the last 10 rounds on the second sleeve.
By cap, I assume you mean like a vest… I’d try doing only the last two rounds on the first sleeve and the first two rounds on the second sleeve. The arm openings will probably be quite large, but if you don’t mind that (I think it would look cool myself), then you should be good to go!
I hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions!
I am definately gonna try it looks easy enough. I love the one piece no seam stuff.
Thanks Beth! Glad to see there’s so many people out there who hate seams as much as I do!
Hi Michelle, I am not a shrug person personally, but this one has me reaching for my hook. It’s Lovely, I will have to give it a try. Thank you for the pattern x
You’re very welcome! Thank you for the great feedback!
Hello. I saw your pattern for the original seamless shrug the other day and loved it. Now that I am ready to make it, I can’t seem to locate the pattern on the page again. By any chance would you mind emailing it to me? or telling me where exactly I should see it on the page? Thank you so much. The shrug is beautiful.
Hi Keri!
Here you go: http://www.thepaintedhinge.com/2013/03/07/easy-no-seam-crochet-shrug-pattern/
I recently renamed my blog, and somehow through the transfer part of this post was cut off. Fortunately I back up like a fiend, so I was able to find the missing part and restore it to this pattern.
Sorry about that! Thanks for catching it and let me know if you have any more problems.
Michelle
It’s so nice to meet another lefty crocheter out there! lol I love this pattern and hope I can get done right, after all, I’m used to converting right handed instructions haha!
LOL Kim! I tried to make the instructions as “generic” as I could for both lefties and righties. I haven’t heard any yelling from the righty camp, so I guess I did okay!
Let me know how it turns out!
Hi Michelle,
Count me as another fan. I like the way you wrote your pattern-especially your suggestions for up/down sizing. Even within Medium, there is a range due to “ease” (designer term for how snug or relaxed/loose the fit is.
One thing that might help us-especially those not able to convert gauge and pattern count, would be to include the measurements of the finished piece: cuff to cuff length, width (between arm start / shoulder blades) across back, length of sleeve, width of sleeve at elbow ( obvious width at upper arm is two times height of back).
ps I am a righty and your directions make sense.
Thank you for your feedback and kudos Arl!
And I definitely will include measurements next time… I made this shrug for my sister-in-law and snapped a few pictures before I gave it to her. This was before I started blogging, so I didn’t think about measuring it. After I started this blog I decided to share this pattern on a whim… I honestly did not think it would be anywhere near as popular as it is! I do plan starting making this shrug for my Etsy shop, so when I do I will measure the results and include them here. Thanks again and enjoy the pattern! 
You state that the yarn requirement is 4 skeins. Is that each strand, as you say to use two strands together. Or is it a total amount of yarn required?
Hi Monetta! It’s the total amount of yarn required. Traditionally, patterns are usually written listing the total amount of yarn required for the whole pattern no matter how the yarn is used. I think it would be too confusing to list x amount of yarn for each strand, but not list the total amount of yarn needed for the pattern.
Hi love this it’s beautiful. Is it done in uk or USA terms please x
Hi Joanne! It’s done in USA terms. I’m glad you like it!
Love it ♥
Thank you for posting
You’re welcome Mervi, and thank you!
I am so loving this idea of just one piece!! Thinking of making one in the Bernat Pipsquek…..
Just came upon your seamless pattern and thought I would give it a try for one of my daughter-in-laws for Christmas..(I decided to start early this year…:) I have to say that it was so easy to follow your instructions, and I completed it in two afternoons, which I absolutely love! It looks so cozy and comfy when made…Thank you so much for sharing your pattern…:)
You’re very welcome Terri! Thank you for your lovely comments… always nice to hear from my happy readers!
Michelle:
Please do a tutorial……I’m having difficulties with sleeve # 2…..I am more of a visual video person. I love your pattern. Thanks.
Deborah
[email protected]
Hi Deborah!
At what point are you having difficulty with sleeve #2?