purlJam

# CLASSIC BEGINNER'S SCARF

A timeless rectangular scarf perfect for your first knitting project. This pattern uses simple garter stitch (knit every row) to create a squishy, reversible fabric that won't curl at the edges. The result is a cosy, practical scarf that's ideal for learning the basics of knitting.

## MATERIALS

- **Yarn:** Approximately 300 metres (330 yards) of worsted weight yarn
  - *Suggested:* Any worsted weight (aran) wool or wool-blend yarn
  - *Sample shown in:* Medium grey worsted weight wool
- **Needles:** 5.0mm (UK 6, US 8) straight or circular needles
- **Notions:** 
  - Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
  - Scissors

## TENSION (GAUGE)

18 stitches and 36 rows = 10cm (4") in garter stitch (knit every row), blocked

**To check your tension:** Cast on 24 stitches and knit in garter stitch for 15cm (6"). Measure the centre 10cm square. Tension is not critical for this project, but will affect the finished size and yarn required.

## FINISHED SIZE

Width: 20cm (8")  
Length: 152cm (60")

*Note:* Scarf is easily customizable—simply cast on more or fewer stitches for width, or knit more or fewer rows for length.

## ABBREVIATIONS

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

## PATTERN

### Cast On

Using 5.0mm needles, cast on 36 stitches using your preferred cast-on method.

*Tip for beginners:* The long-tail cast on creates a nice, stretchy edge perfect for scarves.

### Body of Scarf

**Row 1 (RS):** Knit all stitches.  
**Row 2 (WS):** Knit all stitches.

**Repeat Rows 1-2** until your scarf measures approximately 152cm (60") from cast-on edge, or until you've reached your desired length, ending after completing a WS row.

*Note:* In garter stitch, both sides look identical, so your scarf will be completely reversible! Each "ridge" you see represents 2 rows of knitting.

### Helpful Tips While Knitting

- **Tension consistency:** Try to keep your stitches even. Don't worry if your first few rows look a bit wonky—your tension will even out as you get into a rhythm.
- **Counting rows:** Place a stitch marker or tie a piece of scrap yarn at the end of every 20-30 rows to help track your progress.
- **Edge stitches:** Knit the first and last stitch of every row firmly (but not too tightly) to create neat, even edges.
- **Taking breaks:** When you stop knitting, always finish the complete row you're working on. This makes it easier to pick up where you left off.
- **Checking your work:** Every few centimetres, lay your scarf flat and smooth it out. It should be an even width throughout.

### Cast Off

When your scarf has reached the desired length:

Knit 2 stitches, *slip the first stitch on the right needle over the second stitch and off the needle (1 stitch cast off), knit 1 stitch; repeat from * until 1 stitch remains. Cut yarn leaving a 15cm (6") tail, draw through the last stitch and pull tight.

## FINISHING

### Weaving in Ends

Thread the cast-on tail onto your tapestry needle. Weave the tail vertically through the edge stitches for about 7-8cm (3"), then weave back in the opposite direction for 2-3cm. Trim the excess yarn close to the fabric. Repeat with the cast-off tail.

### Blocking

To give your scarf a professional finish and even out your stitches:

1. Fill a clean basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of wool wash if desired.
2. Submerge your scarf and gently press out air bubbles. Let soak for 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain the water and gently press (do not wring) excess water from the scarf.
4. Roll the scarf in a clean towel and press to remove more moisture.
5. Lay the scarf flat on a dry towel or blocking mat, gently patting it into a rectangular shape.
6. Allow to dry completely (24-48 hours) before wearing.

### Care Instructions

Hand wash in cool water with wool-safe detergent. Lay flat to dry. Do not tumble dry.

---

**Congratulations on completing your first scarf!** This project has taught you the fundamental skills of knitting: casting on, the knit stitch, and casting off. You're now ready to explore more adventurous patterns. Enjoy wearing your beautiful handmade scarf!

---

*Pattern tested and designed for beginner knitters. For questions or support, we recommend visiting your local yarn shop or online knitting communities.*