purlJam

# CLASSIC COSY SCARF

A timeless rectangular scarf perfect for beginners, worked in simple garter stitch for a reversible, textured fabric that lies beautifully flat. This easy-to-knit project creates a warm, squishy scarf that's ideal for learning the basics of knitting.

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## MATERIALS

- **Yarn:** Approximately 250-300 metres (275-330 yards) of worsted weight yarn
  - Sample shown uses a soft wool or wool-blend yarn in worsted weight
  - Recommended: Any worsted weight yarn that achieves tension (machine washable options work well for everyday wear)

- **Needles:** 5.0mm (UK size 6, US size 8) straight or circular needles

- **Notions:** 
  - Scissors
  - Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
  - Measuring tape

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## TENSION (GAUGE)

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

*Always check your tension! Take time to knit a tension square before beginning your project. If you have more stitches per 10cm, try larger needles. If you have fewer stitches, try smaller needles.*

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## FINISHED SIZE

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

*Note: This scarf can easily be customised to your preferred length. Simply knit until you're happy with the length, keeping in mind you'll need approximately 10 metres of yarn for every 10cm of scarf length.*

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## ABBREVIATIONS

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

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## 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 neat, elastic edge perfect for scarves. Alternatively, the knitted cast on is very straightforward for absolute beginners.*

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### Scarf Body

**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 is completely reversible! Each ridge you see represents 2 rows of knitting.*

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### Helpful Tips While Knitting

- **Maintaining even edges:** Knit the first and last stitch of every row firmly (but not too tightly) to create neat, consistent edges.

- **Counting rows:** It's helpful to place a marker or safety pin on the right side of your work so you always know which side you're on, though with garter stitch it doesn't affect the pattern.

- **Consistent tension:** Try to maintain the same tension throughout. Your knitting will naturally become more even as you work through the project.

- **Taking breaks:** When you stop knitting, always complete the full row you're working on. This prevents laddering and makes it easier to pick up where you left off.

- **Measuring progress:** Lay your scarf flat (not stretched) when measuring. Garter stitch can be quite elastic.

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## FINISHING

### Cast Off

When your scarf has reached the desired length:

**Cast off all stitches knitwise.** Don't cast off too tightly – your cast off edge should have the same amount of stretch as your cast on edge.

*Tip: If your cast off tends to be tight, try using a needle one size larger (5.5mm) for the cast off row only.*

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### Weaving In Ends

1. Thread your yarn tail onto a tapestry needle.

2. Weave the tail through several stitches on the wrong side of the work, working diagonally through the purl bumps for security.

3. Weave back in the opposite direction for about 2.5cm (1").

4. Trim excess yarn, leaving approximately 3mm (⅛") tail.

5. Repeat with cast on tail.

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### Blocking

Blocking will even out your stitches and give your scarf a professional finish:

1. Fill a clean basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of wool wash (optional).

2. Submerge your scarf gently and let it soak for 15-20 minutes.

3. Lift the scarf carefully (supporting its weight) and gently squeeze out excess water. Do not wring or twist.

4. Roll the scarf in a clean, dry towel and press to remove more moisture.

5. Lay the scarf flat on a blocking mat or clean towel on a flat surface. Gently pat and shape it to the finished measurements.

6. Allow to dry completely (24-48 hours depending on humidity).

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### Caring for Your Scarf

- Hand wash in cool water with wool-safe detergent
- Lay flat to dry
- If using superwash or acrylic yarn, follow the yarn label care instructions (many can be machine washed)
- Store folded rather than hung to prevent stretching

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## PATTERN NOTES

**Yarn Substitution:** Any worsted weight yarn will work beautifully for this pattern. Choose a fibre content based on your preferences:
- Wool or wool blends: Warm, elastic, and breathable
- Acrylic: Budget-friendly and machine washable
- Cotton: Lightweight and hypoallergenic (though less elastic)
- Alpaca blends: Luxuriously soft and warm

**Modifications:**
- **Narrower scarf:** Cast on 27 sts for a 15cm (6") wide scarf
- **Wider scarf:** Cast on 45 sts for a 25cm (10") wide scarf
- **Shorter scarf:** Work to 132cm (52") for a standard adult length
- **Infinity scarf:** Work to 127cm (50"), then seam the short ends together

**Skill Building:** Once you've mastered this pattern, try experimenting with different stitch patterns such as seed stitch (k1, p1 alternating) or simple ribbing (k2, p2) for your next scarf project!

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**Congratulations on completing your scarf! This foundational project has taught you essential knitting skills that you'll use in countless future projects. Happy knitting!**