Materials: 150 (170, 190) yds light chunky yarn (such as Mondial Coro, Berroco Plush, or for a summery look Plymouth Fantasy Natural); 50 (75, 100) yds chunky novelty yarn (or double strand of dk weight furry yarn) for borders;
size 11 24 circular needles OR SIZE NEEDED FOR GAUGE; 1 button; size I crochet hook; markers.

Gauge: With main yarn, 11 sts = 4 in stockinette.

INSTRUCTIONS: Starting at the neck edge, loosely cast on 38 (46, 46) sts with novelty yarn. Row 1: For smallest size, K across placing markers (PM) as follows K 10, PM, K 9, PM, K 9, PM, K 10. For larger sizes, K across placing markers (PM) as follows K 12, PM, K 11, PM, K 11, PM, K 12. For all sizes, continue as follows.
Row 2: (right side) K 1, inc in next st, K across and inc in st before and after each marker, K to end and inc in 2nd to last st, K 1.
Row 3: K.
Row 4: Break off novelty yarn and tie on main yarn. Work as on row 2.
Row 5: K 1, P across to last st, K 1.
Repeat rows 4 and 5 until you have worked a total of 9 (11, 15) rows of main yarn (ending with a K row). Now join in the round, placing a marker as you join to indicate the beg of the round. K to first marker and remove it. K across, leaving next marker in place for the center back, and removing 3rd marker. Now K all rounds, inc before and after the 2 markers every OTHER round. Continue until piece measures 10/11 (12/13, 15) down the center back not including the neckband (NOTE: the smaller number in each group is for the smaller size. That is, 10 for size 2 or 11 for size 4). The last round worked should be a non-increase round. Now change to novelty yarn and K around working inc as before. P 1 round, K 1 round (with inc), P 1 round, K and bind off LOOSELY (you may want to work an additional 2 rounds for the larger sizes).

FINISHING:   Starting at the left neck edge, with main yarn work single crochet down the neck opening, and up the right side. Work a chained loop at the top of the right neck edge. Sew button onto left side of neck border. Weave in all ends.