purlJam

# Classic Beginner's Garter Stitch Scarf

## MATERIALS
- **Yarn:** 250g (9oz) worsted weight yarn in your favourite colour
- **Needles:** 5.0mm (UK size 6, US size 8) straight knitting needles
- **Notions:** Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors

*Yarn suggestion: Choose a smooth worsted weight yarn in wool, acrylic, or wool blend for best results*

## GAUGE
**Tension:** 18 stitches and 36 rows = 10cm (4") in garter stitch on 5.0mm needles

*Always knit a tension square before beginning your project. Garter stitch has a different tension than stocking stitch, so be sure to measure accurately.*

## FINISHED SIZE
**Width:** 20cm (8")  
**Length:** 152cm (60")

*This creates a lovely long scarf that can be wrapped once around the neck with draping ends*

## ABBREVIATIONS
- **k** = knit
- **st(s)** = stitch(es)
- **rep** = repeat
- **beg** = beginning
- **rem** = remaining

## PATTERN

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

*Tip: Leave a 15cm (6") tail for weaving in later*

### Main Body
**Row 1:** Knit all stitches across. (36 sts)
**Row 2:** Knit all stitches across. (36 sts)

**Repeat these 2 rows** (which are identical - this is garter stitch!) until your scarf measures approximately 152cm (60") from the cast on edge, or until you have about 2 metres of yarn remaining.

*Pattern Notes:*
- *Every row is knitted - this creates the lovely bumpy texture of garter stitch*
- *The scarf will naturally have a slight stretch, so don't worry if it measures slightly short on the needles*
- *Count your rows every 20-30 rows to track progress*
- *Garter stitch lies completely flat and won't curl at the edges*

### Cast Off
Knit 1, *knit 1, pass the first stitch over the second stitch*, repeat from * across all stitches until 1 stitch remains. Break yarn leaving a 15cm (6") tail, and pull through the last stitch.

## FINISHING

1. **Weave in ends:** Using a tapestry needle, weave the cast on and cast off tails into the fabric along the edge for about 7-8cm, then trim excess.

2. **Blocking (optional but recommended):** 
   - Soak the scarf in cool water with a small amount of wool wash for 10 minutes
   - Gently squeeze out excess water (don't wring)
   - Lay flat on a towel and pat into shape
   - Leave to dry completely

3. **Final measurements:** After blocking, your scarf should measure approximately 20cm × 152cm (8" × 60").

**Congratulations!** You've completed your first knitted scarf. This classic garter stitch pattern is reversible, lies beautifully flat, and showcases your chosen yarn colour perfectly. The simple construction makes it an ideal first project for building confidence with basic knitting techniques.

*Enjoy wearing your handmade scarf or giving it as a thoughtful gift!*