This will be my second time following the Speckled Shrug pattern. My first project (Kelly’s Grey Shrug) turned out very nice and comfy, but was a bit too broad in the shoulders for me so I gifted it to my sister. I also learned that my ribbing stitches were a bit more loose than I liked.

This time around I’m making the shrug more narrow in width, and I’m going down a needle size (7) for the ribbing sections. I’ll use the recommended needle size (8) for the body/Stockinette portion of the shrug.

I’ve heard wonderful things about Western Sky Knits yarn, so I’m really excited to cast on!

My modifications to the pattern: I only cast on 128 stitches instead of the amount called for in the pattern. I also cast on using the size 7’s for the ribbing. I knit 3 inches of ribbing instead of 2 inches as the pattern called out. I also knit in stockinette for 30 inches instead of 38. I’m really pleased with the outcome and it fits my petite frame much better than if I had knit it with the one size fits all sizing. I think I could still cast on less if I decide to make it again and have a shrug that fits even closer to my neck instead of hanging just over the shoulders.

UPDATE 6.10.13: I was at a knitting retreat over the weekend and worked on this project the entire time. This yarn is so amazing to work with! It has a great springy-ness to it and is super soft and comforting in my hands. Also, the first section of ribbing turned out nicely and seems to be more snug using the size 7 needles than on my previous project. Can’t wait to finish!

Update 6.21.13: I tried the shrug on before blocking and it fit beautifully! I got a bit spooked as I soaked it for blocking, tho, because the fabric was so soft and stretchy feeling. Once it dried and I tried it on again I saw that it still fit great!