purlJam

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# **Simple Single Crochet Scarf**
### A Beginner-Friendly Worsted Weight Pattern

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## MATERIALS

- **Yarn:** Worsted weight yarn (CYCA #4), approximately **900 yards** total
  *(Example: 5 skeins of a 200-yard worsted weight yarn, or equivalent)*
  Recommended fiber: acrylic, wool, or wool-blend for warmth and durability
- **Hook:** US J/10 (6.0 mm)
- **Notions:**
  - Scissors
  - Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)
  - Measuring tape
  - Stitch marker *(optional, helpful for beginners)*

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## GAUGE

**14 sc and 16 rows = 4 inches (10 cm)**
*Measured over single crochet stitch pattern, blocked.*

> **Why gauge matters:** Taking a few minutes to check your gauge before you begin will ensure your finished scarf matches the target dimensions. If your swatch is too wide, try a smaller hook. If it is too narrow, try a larger hook.

**To make a gauge swatch:**
Chain 20. Single crochet in the 2nd chain from hook and in each chain across (19 sc). Chain 1, turn. Work single crochet across for a total of 20 rows. Fasten off. Measure a 4-inch (10 cm) section in the center of your swatch (avoiding the edges) and count stitches and rows.

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## FINISHED DIMENSIONS

- **Width:** Approximately 7 inches (18 cm)
- **Length:** Approximately 60 inches (152 cm)

*Note: Dimensions are measured after light blocking.*

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## DIFFICULTY

⭐ **Beginner** — This pattern uses only the single crochet stitch and a straight foundation chain. No shaping, increases, decreases, or specialty stitches are required.

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## ABBREVIATIONS

| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | chain |
| sc | single crochet |
| st(s) | stitch(es) |
| rep | repeat |
| RS | right side |
| WS | wrong side |
| ( ) | number of stitches at end of row |

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## PATTERN NOTES

1. **Turning chain does NOT count as a stitch.** At the beginning of every row, chain 1 and turn. This chain 1 is simply used to bring your hook up to the correct height — it is **not** worked into at the end of the following row and does not count as a stitch. You will always have **25 sc** at the end of every row.

2. **Construction method:** This scarf is worked **widthwise** (from one short end to the other). You begin with a short foundation chain of 26, and each row of single crochet adds length to the scarf. This means you can try the scarf on as you go and stop whenever you reach your desired length.

3. **Checking your stitch count:** It is a good habit to count your stitches at the end of every few rows, especially when you are starting out. You should always have exactly **25 sc** per row.

4. **Joining new yarn:** When you need to join a new skein, do so at the end of a row. Leave a 6-inch (15 cm) tail on both the old and new yarn, and weave in the ends securely when finishing.

5. **No magic ring or slip stitch ring is used in this pattern.** The foundation is a simple chain.

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## INSTRUCTIONS

### Foundation Chain

Chain **26**.

> **Math check:** You will sc into the 2nd chain from the hook, so ch 26 gives you 25 working stitches. (26 chains − 1 skipped chain = 25 sc) ✓

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### Row 1 (RS):

Single crochet in the **2nd chain from the hook**, then single crochet in each chain across.
*(25 sc)*

Chain 1, turn.

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### Rows 2–240:

Single crochet in the **first stitch** (the stitch directly at the base of your turning chain — NOT in the turning chain itself), then single crochet in each stitch across.
*(25 sc)*

Chain 1, turn.

> **Repeat Row 2 instructions until you have completed a total of 240 rows.**

> **Math check:**
> - 240 rows ÷ 4 rows per inch = **60 inches** ✓
> - Stitch count per row: **25 sc** ✓
> - Total stitches worked: 25 × 240 = **6,000 sc** ✓

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### Last Row

After completing Row 240 (or your final row), **do not** chain 1 after the last sc. Proceed directly to finishing.

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## FINISHING

### Step 1 — Fasten Off
Cut yarn, leaving a tail of approximately 6 inches (15 cm). Draw the tail through the last loop on your hook and pull firmly to secure.

### Step 2 — Weave In Ends
Thread each yarn tail onto your yarn needle. Weave the tail through several stitches on the wrong side of the scarf, changing direction at least twice to secure. Trim any excess yarn close to the fabric, being careful not to cut the scarf itself.

### Step 3 — Block (Recommended)
Lay the finished scarf flat on a clean, padded surface. Lightly mist with water or steam-block according to your yarn's fiber content (check the yarn label). Gently stretch to the finished dimensions (7 inches × 60 inches / 18 cm × 152 cm) and allow to dry completely before wearing.

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## OPTIONAL FRINGE

Fringe adds a classic finishing touch and is simple to make. Follow these steps if you would like to add fringe to each short end of the scarf.

**You will need:** Approximately 100–120 additional yards of yarn for full fringe on both ends.

**Instructions:**
1. Cut strands of yarn, each **14 inches (35.5 cm)** long. You will need approximately **12 strands per fringe bundle** and approximately **6–8 bundles per end**, depending on how dense you want the fringe.
2. Hold **4 strands** together, fold them in half to create a loop.
3. Insert your crochet hook from front to back through a stitch along the short end of the scarf.
4. Draw the folded loop partway through.
5. Pull the loose ends through the loop and tighten to form a lark's head knot.
6. Repeat evenly across both short ends.
7. Trim all fringe strands to a uniform length once attached.

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## YARDAGE BREAKDOWN *(Reference)*

| Component | Approximate Yardage |
|---|---|
| Scarf body (240 rows × 25 sc) | ~900 yards |
| Weaving in ends | included above |
| Optional fringe (both ends) | ~100–120 yards additional |
| **Total without fringe** | **~900 yards** |
| **Total with fringe** | **~1,000–1,020 yards** |

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## SIZING GUIDANCE

| Desired Length | Approximate Rows Needed |
|---|---|
| 55 inches (140 cm) | 220 rows |
| 60 inches (152 cm) | 240 rows *(pattern as written)* |
| 65 inches (165 cm) | 260 rows |
| 70 inches (178 cm) | 280 rows |

*To adjust width, add or remove stitches in multiples of 1 (each stitch adds or removes approximately ¼ inch / 0.5 cm at this gauge). Always re-calculate your yardage if you change the dimensions significantly.*

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## CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Follow the care instructions on your yarn label. Most worsted weight acrylic yarns are machine washable and dryer safe on a low setting. Wool or wool-blend yarns typically require hand washing in cool water and laying flat to dry.

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*Pattern designed for personal use. Please do not reproduce or sell this pattern without permission. Finished items made from this pattern may be sold.*

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