How To Crochet An Easy Summer Shrug
Scroll down for the free crochet pattern or you may find the ad-free, printable version of this pattern for sale in my Etsy shop, featuring large print and all helpful photos HERE
How about a new, pretty, beginner friendly crochet project that you can wear all summer long? If you’re new to crochet, this is a fun project to stretch beyond single crochet stitches and make something beautiful that you can show off. This might be my fave of all the summer blanket sweaters, shrugs and cocoons that I’ve shared over the last few years. It was inspired by my Casablanca Poncho Pattern and the Mod Mesh Blanket Sweater both of which were simple projects made with Heartland yarn from Lion Brand (here). This “Easy Summer Fun Shrug” crochet pattern uses basic double crochet stitches and chain stitches to make create the open-work fabric and all you will need to do is make a big rectangle.
You’ll find helpful photos below as well as a YouTube video to help you along!
Back when I was just learning to crochet, I was always on the search for simple pattern ideas that were still pretty. I didn’t want to only make scarves and I know many of you might want to branch out too.
And, neutral color lovers, rejoice! Isn’t this Grand Canyon color amazing? The yarn has incredible drape so it’s comfortable on the skin and the slight sheen makes it extra “summery”. I’m not always a fan of sheeny yarn (is that a word?), but it works wonderfully in this case. And while I used just one color ( I know, I’m so predictable ), you can be creative and use as much color as you’d like! You can see all of the Heartland color options here. Go crazy!
Below: This yarn is a budget friendly, incredibly soft option for summer knit and crochet projects.
Below, you’ll see the two projects this piece was inspired by. 🙂
Mod Mesh Blanket Sweater (below)
Today’s pattern is similar to these as it has the open stitch-work, but there’s no blocking needed and it’s just one piece (well, the collar’s attached separately but that’s it).
So, shall we get to this pattern?! You’ll see the free pattern below and you can also find the ad-free printable version for sale in my Etsy shop here, which includes all the helpful photos and large print.
Remember to scroll down to see the helpful photos on how this is put together! And here’s the video tutorial:
Easy Summer Fun Shrug Crochet Pattern
Pattern Description:
This super simple pattern uses double crochet and chain stitches to create a modern, open work fabric. The soft, light yarn is perfect for warm weather and the clean lines make it trendy yet classic. You’ll crochet a simple rectangular shape and fold to seam. The collar is attached at the end and lends to it’s comfort and style. This pattern includes pictures to help you along.
Skill Level:
Beginner +
Materials:
US Size K 6.5 mm crochet hook
4 Skeins Lion Brand Heartland Yarn in Grand Canyon (Pattern uses approximately 450 g)
Scissors
Tapestry Needle
Dimensions (approximate) One Size Fits Most
Width: (from end of arm to end of arm) 41”
Length: 34” including collar
Measurement is taken while piece is laid flat.
(Pictured on size small model)
Abbreviations & Skills:
ch – chain
sc – single crochet
sc blo – single crochet through the back loop only
dc – double crochet
ch st – chain stitch
st – stitch
sk st – skip stitch
ch 1 sp – chain 1 space
Gauge:
Not important for this pattern
Notes: This shrug is created by crocheting a rectangle lengthwise while following the stitch pattern It is then folded and seamed to create the arm openings. The collar is then crocheted separately at the end and is attached with a simple whip stitch.
Pattern Instructions
Main Body
Ch 89
Row 1 Dc in 3rd st from hook and in each ch st across the row (87 stitches)
Row 2 Ch 4 (counts as 1st dc st and ch st), turn, sk st, dc in next st, *ch 1, sk st, dc in next st; repeat from * across the row ending with a dc stitch. (87 stitches)
Row 3 Ch 3 (counts as dc st), turn, *dc in ch 1 sp, dc in next dc st; repeat from * across the row, working final dc in 3rd st of turn ch from previous row. (87 stitches)
Repeat rows 2 & 3, in that order, until piece measures approximately 41” long. Tie off and weave in ends.
Next, you’ll crochet the collar!
Collar
Ch 8
Row 1 Sc in each st across the row (7 stitches)
Row 2 Ch 1, turn, sc blo in each st across (7 stitches)
Repeat row 2 until collar reaches approximately 60” long, tie off and weave in ends.
Assemble:
Place rectangle width wise on flat surface. Fold each corner inward as pictured below. Seam the corners together, working approximately 4 ¾” inches inward leaving openings for the arms. Tie off and weave in ends.
Center the collar onto your piece and whip stitch to attach. Tie off and weave in ends.
Helpful Photos:
Below: An up-close of the stitch pattern. You may choose to practice the stitch pattern on a small swatch before beginning. Simply chain an odd number of stitches and follow the pattern for the Main Body of the shrug.
Below: The completed rectangle. Your beginning chain is along the side of the piece as you are worked lengthwise. Fold the corners in as pictured.
Below: The corners are all folded and now you will seam while leaving openings for the arms.
Below: Seaming to create the sleeves.
Below: Attach the collar and whip stitch to the shrug.
It also can be helpful to practice the stitch pattern on a small swatch before starting the full rectangle. All you need to do is chain an odd number of stitches and follow the stitch pattern for the main body. Here is an example of what a small swatch will look like:
And that’s all there is to it, my friends!
I hope you enjoy it and I’d love to see if you make one! You can tag me on Instagram @mamainastitch and #mamainastitch to show me your finished pieces. Happy spring my friends.
XO,
Jessica
This pattern looks gorgeous and I was just looking for a pattern like this to wear over a summer dress if the air turns cool. Do you think it would be ok to substitute Lion Brand Comfy Cotton yarn for the Heartland?
Yes!! I think that would be beautiful and I love the comfy cotton.
I love the looks of this! Do you possibly have a knitted version! Thanks so much!
I don’t have a knit version currently. Sorry about that! So happy you like it though!
I’m so excited to try this. I even love that color! I’ve never whipstitched but I will figure that out…this would make a beautiful gift too! Thank you!
You’re welcome, Renee!
Thank you so much for such a beautiful pattern. I am going to attempt to crochet this pattern. I know basic crochet but I’m better at knitting. Again thank you.
I am so excited to begin on this. I hope I can figure out how to order pattern instructions and to purchase this yarn. Great find ! !
Thank you for the beautiful summer pattern. I’m new to making clothing. Can’t wait to wear it, but first I need to make it.
I love all your shrug patterns! I’ve decided to make the Mod Mesh Blanket Shrug. It’ll be easy to transport with me in my new Caribe Tote, when not on me. Exactly what I need.
Jessica, thank you for another great crochet pattern. Do you know what sizes this shrug will fit? I have the yarn, I can’t wait to get started!
Hi Jessica. I love all of your designs. I make each one as you release the patterns. I would like to ask if you think the Lion Brand 24/7 cotton and bamboo yarn would work for this project? I live in Texas and find the acrylic yarn too hot. Thank you.
Thanks so much for the pattern Jessica! I made one for myself and my 9 yr old dtr. I took a very colorful spin with it though and made mine longer (I’m 6ft tall) and my dtrs a little shorter. It worked great and they turned out beautiful!!!
I love this shrug and have started crocheting but I am not sure of the dimensions. To my eye, the 89 stitches seem to make a somewhat short side. Can you give me rough idea on what the dimensions of the completed rectangle should be? Thanks again for your inspiring work.
Hi there!
I faced the same problem. Did you manage to make it longer? I hope you can help me out here.
Thanks
Jessica, Thank you for sharing so many wonderful patterns! Your videos are so helpful…you are a great teacher. I just completed the crocheting portion of this simple sweater. I consider myself an advanced beginner and I’m almost embarrassed at this question. When I attach the collar to the sweater, do I whip stitch the collar from the outside of the sweater (right) side or the wrong (inside) of the sweater? I just can’t Telle from your photos or written instructions. Thank you so much again for all your help!
That’s a great question! It really doesn’t matter which side you whip stitch it from. 🙂 I actually can’t remember which side I did it on, but no worries either way!
Thanks, Jessica for another wonderful pattern! I would like to do this pattern in a larger size, can you tell me in what multiples I need to add to the original 89 stitches? Thank you!
Hi! I too would like to make this in a bigger size! Could you please tell me how many stitches to add on to do so? Thanks!
I absolutely love your patterns!! It’s wonderful that you share them with us as well. Your videos are done SO well!! Thank you .. Thank you .. Thank you!!
Hi Jessica,
I am a fellow Rocky Mountain gal but on the other side. I love your patterns. I am making this shrug right now. Can’t wait till I’m done. You explain things so that anyone can understand. People can tell that you love to crochet and share your gift. I just had to say that. Stay warm lol
Ahhh, thanks Sonda!
I love this pattern thank u for sharing
I’m a larger lady and would love to make it longer. How many chains should I add
The length of it depends on the individual. Just make sure you chain an uneven number. You can measure by holding one end at the back of you neck and seeing where it falls down your back. Easy!
I’m having trouble getting straight sides but not sure what I am doing wrong. My rectangle keeps expanding across. I think it may be due to the end of “row 3” and doing the last dc in the top chain from prior row. This is done every time for “row 3”. Any thoughts?
Thank you,
Paula
I’m having trouble getting straight sides but not sure what I am doing wrong. My rectangle keeps expanding across. I think it may be due to the end of “row 3” and doing the last dc in the top chain from prior row. This is done every time for “row 3”. Any thoughts?
Thank you,
Paula
You’re most likely adding a stitch at the end of the rows. Definitely practice on a small swatch to get the stitch down if you haven’t already. So much easier to learn and practice on a small rectangle rather than the entire, big one. Hope this helps!
Hi! For the EASY SUMMER FUN SHRUG CROCHET PATTERN
I would also like to do this pattern in a larger size; can you tell me in what multiples I need to add to the original 89 stitches? I noticed several ladies asked. Did I miss your answer? Thank you!
Hi! You just need an odd number of stitches and make the chain as long as you’d like for that pattern. Hope that helps!
Hi Jessica, I started crocheting last year and my very first crocheting project was the Summer Shrug. I live in Thailand but made it for a trip to South America, which we did not take. After making the shrug, you have inspired me to make several other things from your website. I love your patterns and just started on the new Lil Sedona Shrug. It is in a lighter cotton so might be able to wear it in Thailand. Thank you.
Hi Nancy in Thailand!! I’m so thrilled that the shrug worked for you! I’d love to visit Thailand someday – it looks so beautiful. Thank you for your kind words, and for following me!Stay safe and well!
I would love to attempt this beautiful shrug and am new to crochet. How would I make it shorter – I am only 5′ and would like to not be ‘overpowered’ by it! What would you suggest? thank you so much!