The Oslo Shrug has its roots in the traditional Lusekofte-sweater and the classic knitting patterns collected by Annichen Sibbern Bøhn in “Norwegian Knitting Designs”. The Lusekofte with the single stitches (lice) of a contrasting colour has had a special position in Norwegian knitting traditions for a long time. It has recently seen a new revival with the use of lighter yarns, and I wanted to create an updated version with long cosy sleeves to better suit our modern lives. It is just the thing to keep you warm when wearing short sleeved tops and dresses in the colder season!

It’s knit in two pieces (sleeves) in the round, divided and knit flat for the back, joined by grafting, and finished by picking up stitches and knitting a 2x2 ribbing around the back/neck.

The pdf pattern includes charts in full for each size.

Sizes: S/M (L/XL, 2X/3X), designed to fit with 2cm positive ease in the sleeves.
Needles: 3,5 mm (US 4) set of DPNs and 2 circulars, 40 cm, or size needed to obtain gauge. Optional: Pair of long straight needles for the back.
Notions: Tapestry needle. Stitch marker.
Yarn: Rowan Felted Tweed DK (50% merino wool, 25 % alpaca, 25% viscose), 175 m (191 yards) per 50 g (1.76 oz) ball.
• 3 (3) 4 balls in 145 Treacle (MC)
• 1 (2) 2 balls in 171 Paisley (CC)
Gauge and measurements: Measured over colourwork pattern: 25 sts over 26 rows. Measured over lice pattern: 24 sts over 21 rows. See schematic for measurements.

The contrasting colourway (171 Paisley) used in this project has been discontinued. I recommend using any colourway with good contrast as a substitute; perhaps 183 Peony?

The shrug is knit in two pieces (sleeves) in the round, divided and knit flat for the back, joined by grafting, and finished by picking up stitches and knitting a 2x2 ribbing around the back/neck.

Knit Now issue 42 is on sale from 11th December 2014, available from supermarkets, newsagents and selected craft shops as well as the MoreMags website