This project is rated Intermediate and is worked mostly in the round from the top down in a 1x1 rib, including some short row shaping for contoured comfort and finished with satisfyingly smooth rounded edges. Techniques used are outlined.

Written for sizes XS (S) M (L) XL (2X) 3X (4X) 5X with approximately -30% ease around the waist and and a fit/feel of 0 ease, the method also includes instructions on how to customize the project for a lower rise (down to a regular high waist fit).

This pattern is designed to fit the following measurements:

WAIST:

CM: 61 (68) 76 (87) 97 (107) 114 (119) 127

IN: 24 (26.5) 30 (34) 38 (42) 45 (47) 50

HIPS:

CM: 86 (92) 102 (112) 122 (135) 140 (145) 157

IN: 34 (36) 40 (44) 48 (53) 55 (57) 62

Schematic and finished measurements are included in the pattern. All measurements are provided in both metric and imperial units (cm & in).

Project requires a medium (aran) weight, 100% untreated (non-superwash) wool yarn. Gauge/tension for a 10cm/4in swatch in the round is 18 sts x 24 rnds in stockinette (24 sts x 24 rnds in rib) using 5mm/size 8 US circular needles (or size to get gauge).

The shorts (in the suggested fibre) are incredibly stretchy and length measurements are included in the both the finished measurements and the pattern method, so don’t worry if your gauge is slightly off!

METRES:

450-500 (500-550) 550-600 (650-700) 750-800 (850-900) 950-1000 (1050-1100) 1100-1150

YARDS:

500- 550 (550-600) 600-650 (720-770) 820-870 (930-980) 1050-1100 (1150-1200) 1200-1250

These amounts include swatching and room for minor differences in tension. Your knitting style, yarn choice and any desired alterations may affect this amount, so make sure to adjust accordingly!

Pictured shorts are a size S and used approximately 400m (440yd) excluding swatching.

NEEDLES:

5mm (size 8 US) (or size to get gauge) circular needles with a total cable length at least 10-20cm/4-8in longer than largest body measurement (hip/waist). See below for alternatives.

4mm (size 6 US) (or above size -1mm/-2 sizes US) circular needles for the waistband, either the same length as above or long enough to hold waist sts.

You can use more than 1 set of circular needles to reach cable length. You can also use long DPNs/shorter circular needles and use scrap yarn instead of circular needle cable for fitting.

NOTIONS:

Scrap yarn

2.5cm/1in wide elastic for waistband (optional, depending on fibre)

Removable stitch markers distinguishable from each other (approx. 6)

Yarn needle

Measuring tape

These shorts are so stretchy and bouncy - hence the marshmallow name - that elastic isn’t even required if knitting in wool. However, this construction method ensures that you can add some whenever (and if ever) you feel like it!

YARN SUBSTITUTIONS

Elastic is recommended for the waistband if using a different fibre/blend to the recommended wool.