Leaf-Chain Scarf (Crochet)

Delicate openwork leaves joined into a long, lacy scarf. Worked in crochet leaf motifs joined as you go for a light, airy wrap that shows off stitch definition. This pattern is written for a crochet construction; a knitting needle size equivalent is given if you prefer to adapt.

Finished measurements

• Width: approx 7–9 in (18–23 cm) depending on yarn and tension
• Length: approx 64–68 in (162–172 cm) without fringe; add fringe or extra rows to lengthen

Materials

• Yarn: DK weight (8-ply) recommended—approx 400 yards (366 m) / about 200 g (7 oz). Use a smooth, light wool or wool-blend for good blocking and definition.
• Crochet hook: US H/8 (5.0 mm) — Metric 5.0 mm. If adapting to knitting, suggested knitting needle size: US 8 / UK 6 / Metric 5.0 mm.
• Notions: tapestry needle for weaving ends, stitch marker (optional), blocking pins and mat.

Gauge

One leaf motif (finished, blocked) = approx 3–4 in (7.5–10 cm) long by 1.5–2 in (4–5 cm) wide. Gauge is not critical for this scarf, but leaf size will change with hook and yarn.

Abbreviations (US crochet)

• ch = chain
• sl st = slip stitch
• sc = single crochet
• hdc = half double crochet
• dc = double crochet
• tr = treble (US = tr)
• dtr = double treble (US = dtr)
• sp(s) = space(s)
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• RS = right side

Special notes

This scarf is built from identical crochet leaf motifs joined as you go in offset rows to form a continuous band. Leaves are made in a single piece. When joining, you slip-stitch into designated chain spaces on the previous leaf to create a stable join that remains flexible. Work from end-to-end creating enough leaves to reach your desired length.

Leaf motif (one leaf)

Each leaf is worked on a short foundation chain and shaped symmetrically around the chain spine. Work one leaf and then join to the previous leaf where directed.

Ch 10. (This long chain forms the spine of the leaf.)

1. Row 1 (RS): Working into 2nd ch from hook, sc; sc in next ch; hdc in next ch; dc in next ch; tr in next ch; dtr in next ch (center tip); sl st in next ch (tip), then continue on the opposite side of foundation chain: dtr in next ch, tr in next ch, dc in next ch, hdc in next ch, sc in next ch, sc in last ch. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off if you are not joining to a previous leaf. (You should have a pointed tip at center and gradual decreases to the base.)
2. Notes on shaping: Adjust stitch heights if your yarn/hook produces a different look. For a fuller leaf make the center stitches taller (dtr), for a flatter leaf replace dtr with tr.

Leaf abbreviation shorthand

Leaf = ch10; sc, sc, hdc, dc, tr, dtr, sl st, dtr, tr, dc, hdc, sc, sc; sl st to join base.

Joining-as-you-go layout and method

Decide how wide you want the scarf. Typical arrangement: leaves overlap slightly and are placed in staggered rows, e.g., 9–12 leaves across for 7–9 in width depending on leaf size. You will join each new leaf to one or two leaves in the previous row using sl sts into the base chain or into specified stitches/spaces. 

Joining rules (example layout):

• Row 1: Make N leaves placed end-to-end and joined at the base by a single sl st to create a narrow foundational chain of joined bases.
• Row 2: Start with a half-leaf or full leaf offset so its base overlaps the join between two leaves below. Join along the base with two or three sl sts into the chain spaces or scs on the lower leaves so the row is nicely staggered.
• Repeat Row 1 and Row 2 alternation to build length. For a typical scarf, create about 7–10 rows of leaves (depending on leaf size and desired length). 

Detailed step-by-step join-as-you-go (preferred method)

1. Work the first leaf completely but don’t fasten off. Leave a 6–8 in tail for sewing if you prefer to sew joins later.
2. To start the second leaf in the same row: ch10 for the next leaf, work Row 1 of the leaf until you reach the base (the final sl st to the first sc). Before finishing the last sl st, insert hook into the final base stitch of the previous leaf where the bases touch and sl st through both loops to join; complete the sl st to finish the new leaf. Continue this method to join all leaves in the first row.
3. To begin Row 2: turn work and attach yarn at an offset point between two leaves on Row 1. Ch10 and work the leaf; when you reach the base stitches on either side of the new leaf, sl st into the nearest base stitch on the leaves below (make 2 sl sts, one on each side) to anchor the leaf. Continue across the row creating the staggered effect.

Edge finishing and border

After the final row is joined, tidy the raw edges with a narrow border: Round 1: With RS facing, join yarn at one end and sc evenly around the entire scarf edge, placing 2 sc in each tip point and 1 sc along straight edges. At corners and joins place extra sc to keep edges flat. Join with sl st and fasten off. Round 2: Optional picot or reverse single crochet (crab stitch) for a finished look: crab stitch around with same or contrasting color.

Blocking

Gently wet-block the finished scarf to open the leaf shapes and set the joins. Pin the leaves into a pleasing shape, spacing the staggered rows evenly. Allow to dry completely.

Variations and customization

• Make the scarf wider by increasing leaves per row or decreasing hook size to make leaves smaller for a denser fabric.
• Use a fingering yarn and a larger hook for airier, lacy leaves.
• Add a fringe made of short leaf tassels or chain loops at each end for a boho look.
• Work leaves in two or more colors and join with a neutral yarn for a striped leaf band.

Care

Hand wash or gentle machine cycle in a mesh bag. Lay flat to dry. Avoid high heat.

Tips & troubleshooting

• If leaves cup inward, try a slightly larger hook and re-block more aggressively.
• Maintain consistent tension when joining; pull too tight and your joins will pucker, too loose and the scarf will be floppy.
• Practice one leaf and a small join before committing to a full scarf to get your preferred spacing and aesthetic.

Yardage guide

Estimated yarn required: 350—500 yards (320–411 m) depending on yarn, hook, and how many leaves you make. One sample scarf (7 in x 66 in) in DK used ~400 yards (366 m).

Support

Pattern by PurlJam. Website: https://purljam.verde.uk. For help email team@verde.uk. Socials: #purljam.

Created by purlJam with the help of magic AI dust. Shop Verde for patterns and yarn.

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