purlJam

# Baby Girl's Simple Crochet Scarf

A sweet and cozy scarf perfect for keeping your little one warm. This beginner-friendly pattern uses simple single crochet stitches worked in rows to create a soft, textured fabric. Sized appropriately for babies and toddlers.

**Skill Level**: Beginner

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## MATERIALS

**Yarn**: Approximately 150-200 yards of worsted weight (#4) yarn
- Suggested fibers: Soft acrylic, cotton blend, or baby-specific yarns
- Color suggestions: Pastels (pink, lavender, mint, peach, butter yellow), white, or soft gray

**Hook**: Size H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge

**Notions**:
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors

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## GAUGE

16 stitches and 20 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in single crochet

*To check gauge*: Chain 20, work in single crochet for 20 rows. Measure the center of your swatch. Adjust hook size if necessary - use a larger hook if your gauge is too tight, smaller hook if too loose.

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## FINISHED MEASUREMENTS

**Width**: Approximately 4.5 inches (11.5 cm)
**Length**: Approximately 28 inches (71 cm)

*Note*: These dimensions are appropriate for babies 6 months to 2 years. The scarf is intentionally shorter than adult scarves for safety.

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## PATTERN NOTES

- Chain 2 at the beginning of each row does NOT count as a stitch
- Work turning chain loosely to prevent edges from pulling in
- For a longer scarf (toddler size), simply work additional rows to desired length
- **SAFETY NOTE**: Never leave a baby unattended while wearing a scarf. Scarves can pose a strangulation hazard. This scarf is best used for photo opportunities or short supervised outings.

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## ABBREVIATIONS

- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- sp = space

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## INSTRUCTIONS

**Foundation**: Ch 19

**Row 1**: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. (18 sc)
*Math check: 19 chains - 1 skipped chain = 18 stitches ✓*

**Row 2**: Ch 2 (does not count as st), turn, sc in each st across. (18 sc)

**Rows 3-140**: Repeat Row 2.
*Math check: 140 rows ÷ 20 rows per 4" = 7 × 4" = 28 inches length ✓*

*Note*: After working several inches, measure your work. If you're not achieving the gauge, your scarf will be a different length. Work until piece measures approximately 28 inches from foundation chain, or desired length.

**Final Row**: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. Fasten off, leaving a 6-inch tail for weaving in.

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## FINISHING

1. **Weave in ends**: Thread yarn needle with yarn tails and weave through several stitches on wrong side of work. Trim excess.

2. **Blocking** (optional): Lay scarf flat, lightly mist with water, and gently pat into shape. Allow to dry completely. This will even out stitches and give a professional finish.

3. **Fringe** (optional, not recommended for young babies): 
   - Cut 48 strands of yarn, each 8 inches long
   - Fold 2 strands in half
   - Insert hook through edge stitch, catch folded loop, pull through
   - Pull yarn ends through loop and tighten
   - Attach 12 fringe bundles evenly spaced across each short end
   - Trim fringe evenly to approximately 3 inches
   - **WARNING**: Fringe is not recommended for babies under 12 months due to choking hazard. Use only under close supervision.

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## CUSTOMIZATION IDEAS

**Size Variations**:
- Newborn (0-3 months): Work to 20 inches long
- Baby (3-12 months): Work to 24 inches long
- Toddler (1-3 years): Work to 32 inches long

**Color Ideas**:
- Two-color stripes: Change colors every 10-15 rows
- Ombre effect: Use gradient yarn
- Classic white or cream for heirloom quality

**Texture Variations** (for confident beginners):
- Work in back loops only for ribbed texture
- Alternate rows of sc and hdc for subtle texture

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## CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Follow yarn label instructions. Most worsted weight acrylics are machine washable and dryable on low heat, making them practical for baby items.

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## YARN REQUIREMENTS BY SIZE

*Based on worsted weight yarn*:
- Newborn (20"): 100-125 yards
- Baby (24"): 125-150 yards  
- Standard (28"): 150-200 yards
- Toddler (32"): 200-225 yards

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**Pattern Notes**:
*Stitch count verification: 18 sts × 140 rows = 2,520 total stitches*
*Dimensions verification: 18 sts ÷ 4 sts/inch = 4.5" wide ✓; 140 rows ÷ 5 rows/inch = 28" long ✓*

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**About This Pattern**: This simple scarf is an excellent first project for learning consistent tension and working in rows. The repetitive nature builds muscle memory while creating a practical, giftable item.

**Safety First**: Always supervise babies and young children wearing scarves or any accessories.

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*© 2024 - This pattern is for personal use. You may sell items made from this pattern. Please credit the designer.*