purlJam

# CLASSIC GARTER STITCH SCARF

A timeless, beginner-friendly scarf knitted in simple garter stitch. This pattern creates a beautifully textured, reversible fabric that's perfect for showcasing your favourite DK weight yarn. The garter stitch naturally lies flat without curling, making it an ideal first project or a relaxing knit for any skill level.

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## MATERIALS

**Yarn**: 300g of DK weight yarn (approximately 750-900 metres)
- Sample shown uses a standard DK weight at approximately 250m per 100g

**Needles**: 4.0mm (UK 8, US 6) straight needles, or size needed to obtain tension

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

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## TENSION

**22 stitches and 30 rows = 10cm (4") in garter stitch** (knit every row), measured after blocking

To check tension: Cast on 28 stitches and knit for 12cm. Lay flat and measure 10cm width in the centre - you should count 22 stitches. If you have more stitches, use larger needles; if fewer stitches, use smaller needles.

**Tension is important for achieving the correct finished dimensions.**

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## FINISHED SIZE

**Width**: 20cm (8")
**Length**: 150cm (60")

*Calculation check: 44 sts ÷ 2.2 sts/cm = 20cm width ✓*

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## ABBREVIATIONS

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

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## PATTERN

### Cast On
Using 4.0mm needles, cast on **44 sts**.

*Calculation: 20cm × 2.2 sts/cm = 44 sts ✓*

### Body of Scarf
**Row 1 (RS)**: Knit all sts.
**Row 2 (WS)**: Knit all sts.

**Repeat Rows 1-2** until scarf measures approximately **150cm (60")** from cast-on edge, or until you've reached your desired length and have enough yarn remaining to cast off comfortably (approximately 1.5 metres).

**Tip**: Garter stitch creates ridges on both sides. Each ridge represents 2 rows of knitting. You'll work approximately 450 rows total (150cm × 3 rows/cm = 450 rows).

*Calculation check: 450 rows ÷ 30 rows/10cm = 150cm length ✓*

### Cast Off
Knit all sts loosely. Cast off all stitches in knit, ensuring your cast-off edge has the same stretch as the fabric.

**Tip**: If your cast-off edge tends to be tight, try using a needle one size larger (4.5mm) for casting off.

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## FINISHING

1. **Weave in ends**: Thread yarn tails onto tapestry needle and weave through several stitches on the wrong side of the fabric. Weave in opposite direction for security, then trim excess yarn.

2. **Blocking**: Soak scarf in lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring). Roll in a towel to remove more moisture. Lay flat on a clean towel or blocking mat, gently patting to finished measurements: 20cm × 150cm. Allow to dry completely.

3. **Optional fringe**: If desired, cut strands of yarn 30cm long. For each fringe, fold 3 strands in half, insert crochet hook through edge stitch, pull folded loop through, then pull ends through loop and tighten. Space fringes evenly across both short ends (approximately every 3-4 stitches).

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## PATTERN NOTES

- **Garter stitch** is created by knitting every row and produces a squishy, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges.
- This scarf is **completely reversible** - there's no right or wrong side!
- **Yarn substitution**: Any DK weight yarn will work. Aim for approximately 900 metres total to ensure you have enough for the full length.
- **Customisation**: Feel free to adjust the width (cast on more or fewer sts in multiples of 2) or length (simply knit until desired length).
- **Relaxation tip**: Garter stitch is wonderfully meditative. Once you've knit a few rows, you'll find a rhythm that requires no pattern checking.

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## SCHEMATIC

```
Cast-on edge: 44 sts = 20cm (8")
        |
        |
        | 150cm (60")
        |
        |
Cast-off edge: 44 sts = 20cm (8")
```

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*Pattern designed for beginner knitters. No shaping or special techniques required.*

**Enjoy your knitting!**