purlJam

# Classic Garter Stitch Scarf

## MATERIALS
- 250g worsted weight yarn (approximately 500m/550yds)
- Suggested yarn: Pure wool or wool blend in your favourite colour
- 5.0mm (UK 6/US 8) knitting needles
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors

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

**Important:** Always knit a tension square before beginning. If you have more stitches per 10cm, use larger needles. If you have fewer stitches, use smaller needles.

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

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

## PATTERN

### Cast On
Cast on 36 stitches using your preferred cast on method. The long-tail cast on creates a neat, stretchy edge perfect for scarves.

### Main Body
**Row 1:** Knit all stitches.
**Row 2:** Knit all stitches.

**Repeat Rows 1-2** until scarf measures approximately 152cm (60") from cast on edge, or desired length.

**Pattern Notes:**
- Garter stitch (knitting every row) creates a fabric that lies flat and won't curl at the edges
- The fabric is completely reversible - both sides look identical
- Count your rows periodically to ensure even knitting
- Place a stitch marker every 50 rows to track your progress
- To maintain neat edges, always knit the first and last stitch of every row firmly but not tightly

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

## FINISHING

### Weaving in Ends
Using a tapestry needle, weave all yarn tails into the fabric along the edges, working back and forth through several stitches to secure. Trim excess yarn close to the fabric.

### Blocking (Optional)
Lay the scarf flat on a towel and gently pat into shape. Lightly mist with water and allow to dry completely. This will even out any tension irregularities and give your scarf a professional finish.

### Care Instructions
Hand wash gently in cool water with wool-safe detergent. Lay flat to dry, reshaping whilst damp.

**Beginner Tips:**
- Keep your knitting tension consistent - not too tight, not too loose
- Count your stitches every few rows to ensure you haven't accidentally increased or decreased
- If you drop a stitch, don't panic! Pick it up with your needle and continue knitting
- This project is perfect for learning to "read" your knitting and develop an even rhythm
- Expected completion time: 15-25 hours of knitting

**Customisation Ideas:**
- Make it narrower (24-30 sts) for a more traditional width
- Knit two shorter scarves and join them for a longer version
- Use two colours and change every 20 rows for bold stripes
- Add fringe by cutting yarn into 25cm lengths and attaching to each end