purlJam

# Classic Beginner's Garter Stitch Scarf

## MATERIALS
- 300g worsted weight yarn (approximately 600 metres)
- 5.0mm (UK 6, US 8) knitting needles
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors

**Yarn suggestion:** Choose a smooth worsted weight yarn in your favourite colour. Wool or wool blend yarns are ideal for warmth and stitch definition.

## GAUGE (TENSION)
18 stitches and 36 rows = 10cm (4") in garter stitch (knit every row)

**Important:** Always knit a tension square before beginning. Cast on 24 stitches and knit in garter stitch for 12cm (5"). Measure your tension and adjust needle size if necessary - use larger needles if your knitting is too tight, smaller if too loose.

## FINISHED SIZE
Width: 20cm (8") 
Length: 150cm (60")

## ABBREVIATIONS
- k = knit
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side

## PATTERN

**Cast On:** 36 stitches using the long-tail cast on method.

**Setup:** Knit 1 row to establish your working yarn.

**Main Pattern:**
Row 1: Knit all stitches.
Row 2: Knit all stitches.

Repeat these 2 rows (though they're identical in garter stitch!) until your scarf measures approximately 150cm (60") from the cast-on edge, or desired length.

**Beginner's Tip:** In garter stitch, every row is knitted the same way - simply knit every stitch on every row. This creates the lovely bumpy texture and ensures your scarf will lie flat without curling.

**Progress Markers:** 
- After 50 rows, your scarf should measure approximately 14cm (5.5")
- After 100 rows, approximately 28cm (11")
- Continue until you reach your desired length

**Checking Your Work:** Your scarf should have horizontal ridges running across the width. Each ridge represents 2 rows of knitting. If you see smooth 'v' shapes, you may have accidentally purled a row - don't worry, this won't affect the structure significantly.

## FINISHING

1. **Cast Off:** Knit 2 stitches, *pass the first stitch over the second stitch and off the needle, knit 1 more stitch*. Repeat from * until 1 stitch remains. Cut yarn leaving a 15cm (6") tail and pull through the last stitch.

2. **Weaving in Ends:** Using a tapestry needle, weave the yarn tails through several stitches on the wrong side of the work. Trim excess yarn close to the fabric.

3. **Blocking (Optional):** Gently steam the scarf or lay flat on a towel dampened with cool water. Pat into shape and allow to dry completely. This will even out your stitches and give a more professional finish.

4. **Final Check:** Your finished scarf should be approximately 20cm wide and 150cm long, with a lovely squishy texture that's identical on both sides.

**Congratulations!** You've completed your first knitted scarf. This versatile accessory can be worn traditionally around the neck, or try looping it twice for extra warmth. The garter stitch creates a naturally stretchy and cosy fabric perfect for cold weather.

**Care Instructions:** Follow the yarn label recommendations. Most wool scarves benefit from gentle hand washing in cool water and laying flat to dry.