Sophie Scarf (DK) - a simple textured knit scarf

An easy, reversible textured scarf that is cosy, squishy and endlessly wearable. This pattern is written for DK weight yarn and a medium fabric. It uses a repeatable broken rib so you can easily adjust width and length.

Finished measurements

• Width: about 8.5 inches / 22 cm
• Length (unblocked): about 60 inches / 152 cm. Block to taste; you can make longer or shorter.

Gauge

22 sts x 28 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in pattern stitch on 4.0 mm needles after blocking. Check your gauge and adjust needle size if needed.

Materials

• Yarn: DK weight (light worsted). Approx 350 yards / 320 meters total. Typical recommendation: about 350 yards (320 m). Example yarn characteristics: 100 g = approx 200 220 yards (180 200 m) depending on yarn. Use two skeins as needed to reach the yardage.
• Needles: US 6 / UK 8 / 4.0 mm straight needles OR 24 inch / 60 cm circular (for knitting flat) — recommended. Optional for a slouchier, more open fabric use US 8 / UK 6 / 5.0 mm.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch marker (optional), measuring tape, scissors. Optional fringe comb or large crochet hook to help add fringe.

Needle size summary

• Main: US 6 / UK 8 / 4.0 mm
• Optional for looser fabric: US 8 / UK 6 / 5.0 mm

Abbreviations

• k = knit
• p = purl
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side
• rep = repeat

Notes

The central texture is a broken rib that is reversible and lies flat when you work garter selvedges. The stitch pattern is worked over a multiple of 6 stitches. For neat edges, the pattern below includes a 3-st garter selvedge at the beginning and end of every row.

Sizes and cast-on

Default cast-on: 36 sts (works to give the finished width listed above). Want a wider or narrower scarf? Cast on any number of stitches equal to (6 x n) + 6 where n is 3, 4, 5 etc. The formula keeps the 3-st garter selvedges on each side and the central broken rib multiple of 6.

Pattern stitch

Multiple: 6 sts, plus 6 sts for selvedges

Set-up row (WS): k3, *p3, k3; rep across, end k3.

Pattern (work these two rows for the repeat)

1. Row 1 RS: k3 (selvedge), *k3, p3; rep from * to last 3 sts, k3.
2. Row 2 WS: k3 (selvedge), *p3, k3; rep from * to last 3 sts, k3.

These two rows create a reversible textured broken rib. Repeat rows 1 2 for the length of the scarf.

Instructions

1. Cast on 36 sts using your preferred method. Place a removable marker if you like to mark the beginning; not required.
2. Work 6 rows garter stitch for a neat starting edge: (k every row) 6 rows.
3. Work the set-up row (WS): k3, *p3, k3; rep to last 3 sts, k3.
4. Begin pattern repeat: Rows 1 2 as written under Pattern stitch. Continue repeating until your scarf measures about 58 60 inches / 148 152 cm or your desired length, ending after completing Row 2 (so the fabric is balanced).
5. Work 6 rows garter stitch to mirror the beginning edge.
6. Bind off loosely in pattern (for example, knit the knit sts and purl the purl sts when applicable) across.

Finishing

1. Weave in ends with a tapestry needle.
2. Optional: Add fringe. Cut lengths of yarn roughly 2x the desired fringe length. Fold each strand in half and use a crochet hook to pull the loop through the edge between bound-off stitches, then pull the loose ends through the loop and tighten. Space fringe evenly across both short ends.
3. Blocking: Gently wet block to relax the fabric and even out stitches. Pin to dimensions and allow to dry. DK will relax and open slightly; blocking helps the broken rib lie flat.

Care

Follow yarn label care. In general hand wash cold and lay flat to dry for natural fibers. Machine washable yarns can be washed on a gentle cycle in a mesh bag and laid flat to dry.

Tips

• If your edges pull, increase the garter selvedge to 4 sts each side (adjust cast-on accordingly).
• To adjust drape, experiment with needle sizes: larger needles for a drapier scarf, smaller for denser warmth.
• Keep a smooth consistent tension and check gauge after your first 4 inches to ensure the width will be as expected.

Questions about the pattern or yarn choice? Visit the pattern home and resources at https://purljam.verde.uk or contact support at team@verde.uk. Share your make on socials with #purljam

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