purlJam

# SKINNY SCARF

A simple, elegant skinny scarf perfect for beginners! This narrow scarf is knit in easy garter stitch (knit every row), creating a squishy, reversible fabric that lies flat and looks great from both sides. Quick to knit and endlessly wearable.

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## MATERIALS

**Yarn**: Approximately 200 yards worsted weight yarn
- Sample shown uses 1 skein (200-220 yards) worsted weight yarn
- Choose any fiber content you love: wool, acrylic, cotton, or blends

**Needles**: US 8 (5.0 mm) straight or circular needles (any length)

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

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## GAUGE

**19 stitches** = 4 inches in garter stitch (knit every row), after blocking

*Note: Gauge is not critical for this project, but will affect finished size and yarn requirements.*

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## FINISHED SIZE

**Width**: Approximately 4.5 inches (11.5 cm)  
**Length**: Approximately 60 inches (152 cm)

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## ABBREVIATIONS

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

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## PATTERN

### Cast On
Cast on **21 sts** using your preferred cast on method.
- *Recommended for beginners: long-tail cast on*

**MATH CHECK**: 21 sts × (4 inches ÷ 19 sts) = 4.42 inches ≈ 4.5 inches ✓

### Body of Scarf
**Row 1**: Knit all sts.  
**Row 2**: Knit all sts.

**Repeat Rows 1-2** until scarf measures approximately 60 inches (152 cm) from cast on edge, or until you reach your desired length (leaving enough yarn for bind off - approximately 3 times the width of your scarf).

*Note: In garter stitch, both rows look the same - you're simply knitting every stitch of every row! Every 2 rows creates one "ridge" of garter stitch texture.*

### Bind Off
When scarf reaches desired length, bind off all sts loosely in knit.
- *Tip: Use a needle one size larger for the bind off to keep the edge stretchy*

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## FINISHING

### Weaving in Ends
1. Thread tapestry needle with yarn tail
2. Weave needle through several stitches on the wrong side of the work
3. Weave in opposite direction for security
4. Trim excess yarn close to fabric
5. Repeat for all ends

### Blocking
1. Soak scarf in cool water with wool wash for 15-20 minutes
2. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring)
3. Roll in a towel to remove more moisture
4. Lay flat on blocking surface or towel
5. Gently stretch to finished measurements
6. Pin edges if desired for perfectly straight sides
7. Allow to dry completely

### Optional: Fringe
For added texture and style, add fringe to the short ends:
1. Cut yarn into 10-inch lengths (you'll need 2 strands per fringe)
2. Fold 2 strands in half
3. Use crochet hook to pull folded loop through edge stitch
4. Pull yarn ends through the loop and tighten
5. Repeat every 1-2 stitches across each short end
6. Trim fringe evenly to desired length

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**DESIGN NOTES**

This skinny scarf is wonderfully versatile! The narrow width makes it:
- Perfect for layering under coats
- Great for looping multiple times around the neck
- Quick to knit (most knitters finish in 4-6 hours)
- An excellent first project for new knitters

**Customization Ideas:**
- Make it longer (80-90 inches) for a wrap-around style
- Use two colors and alternate every 10 rows for stripes
- Make two and seam them together for a wider scarf
- Try self-striping or variegated yarn for added visual interest

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**Pattern designed for easy skill level - perfect for adventurous beginners!**