If you need a shawl that does not fall off your shoulders, this design in three variations stays put because it is shaped like a rainbow. There is even a Goddess-sized version for up to size 5X.

Suggested Yarns: (Aran thick/thin, Bulky or Super-Bulky weight) Thick/thin yarns or sticky boucle/loopy yarns that will avoid stretching. Try 3-6 balls Debbie Bliss Soho, 2-3 hanks Rio de la Plata, 3-6 hanks of Adrienne Vittadini Nadia (wool/alpaca) or 3-6 balls Artful Yarns Reality.

NOTE: THIS PATTERN DOES NOT WORK WELL WITH SMOOTH, WORSTED-WEIGHT YARNS! Don’t be disappointed, go with texture or bulk and you will have success. Or try holding two strands of yarn together as one strand, to gain a bit of bulk. I did that for the Goddess-sized version shown last, in raspberry/light magenta. That was a cashmere-blend boucle held with a mohair ribbon.

Needles, Option 1 (double-wrapped drop stitch): Size 15 US/10mm straight needles, at least 12”/30cm long. Circular needles not recommended.

Needles, Option 2 (large needle to create elongated stitches rather than double-wrap): One set Size 15 US/10mm needles, either straight or circular used back and forth as straight needles. One additional set needles appx. size 32 US (3/4”)/2 cm or larger.

Gauge: “Not crucial. If you know you usually knit very firmly or very relaxed, adjust needle size accordingly.”

Sizes:
Capelet version (XS to L) “covers the shoulders, upper arms and back for most women. Test Capelets blocked to 13.5” / 34.3cm neck to hem.”

Bear Hug version (S to XL) “is knit to the same length as the Capelet, but has added sections in width so that it will meet more closely at center front.”

Goddess version (M to 5X) “starts with a few more stitches at the neckline, and also has extra width to meet in front. It is knit a little longer (4-6”) than the other styles, to give a drape to the fabric. This size has been tested on local Goddesses who enthusiastically find it flattering & comfy. This version can also be knit as a roomy, warm wrap for a smaller person.”