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# The Sophie Scarf

A classic, cozy garter stitch scarf designed for absolute beginners. Worked flat in one piece using the simplest knitting stitch, the Sophie Scarf is the perfect first project — relaxing, reversible, and beautifully squishy. The garter stitch fabric lies flat without curling, so there are no fussy edges to worry about. Make it for yourself or gift it to someone special!

**Skill Level:** Beginner

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## MATERIALS

- **Yarn:** Worsted weight (CYC #4) — approximately **300 yards (275 m)** in your favorite color
  - *Suggested fibers:* wool, wool blend, or acrylic for warmth and easy care
- **Needles:** US 8 (5.0 mm) straight or circular needles (work flat)
- **Notions:**
  - Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
  - Scissors
  - Measuring tape

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## GAUGE

**18 stitches × 36 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in garter stitch**

*Gauge is not critical for a scarf, but checking it ensures your finished width and yarn quantity will be accurate. Take a few minutes to swatch — it's worth it!*

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## FINISHED SIZE

- **Width:** 8 inches (20 cm)
- **Length:** 60 inches (152 cm)

*Length is easily adjustable — simply knit longer or shorter to taste.*

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## ABBREVIATIONS

| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| **k** | knit |
| **st(s)** | stitch(es) |
| **CO** | cast on |
| **BO** | bind off |
| **RS** | right side |
| **WS** | wrong side |

*Note: In garter stitch, both sides look the same, so there is no distinct RS/WS — just keep knitting!*

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## PATTERN

### Cast On

**CO 36 sts** using the long-tail cast-on (or your preferred cast-on method).

> ✓ *Math check: 36 sts ÷ 18 sts per 4" × 4 = 8" width* ✓

### Body of Scarf

**Row 1:** Knit all 36 sts across.

**Repeat Row 1** every row (this is garter stitch — knit every row) until the scarf measures **60 inches (152 cm)** from the cast-on edge, or your desired length.

> 💡 **Tip:** To estimate rows, garter stitch produces approximately 9 ridges per inch (2 rows = 1 ridge at 36 rows/4"). For a 60" scarf, expect roughly **540 rows**. Don't count rows — just measure with your tape!

### Bind Off

Bind off all 36 sts loosely, knitwise. To bind off loosely, you may go up one needle size in your right-hand needle, or simply keep your tension relaxed.

Cut yarn, leaving a 6-inch (15 cm) tail. Pull tail through the final loop to secure.

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## FINISHING

1. **Weave in ends:** Using the tapestry needle, weave the cast-on tail and bind-off tail into the wrong side of the scarf along a column of garter ridges for about 2 inches (5 cm). Trim excess.

2. **Block (optional but recommended):**
   - Soak the scarf in lukewarm water with a little wool wash for 15–20 minutes.
   - Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring).
   - Lay flat on a towel, pat into shape (8" × 60"), and allow to air dry completely.
   - Blocking evens out the stitches and gives the scarf a beautiful, professional finish.

3. **Wear and enjoy!** 🧣

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### Optional Variations

- **Longer scarf:** Knit to 70–80 inches for a wrap-around style. Add ~50 yards of yarn per extra 10 inches.
- **Wider scarf:** Cast on in multiples of ~4 stitches (e.g., 40 or 44 sts) for a wider scarf. Add yarn accordingly.
- **Striped version:** Change colors every 10 rows for a fun stripe pattern. Carry yarn loosely up the side.
- **Add fringe:** Cut 12" lengths of yarn, fold in half, and use a crochet hook to attach in pairs along each short edge for a classic fringed look.

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*Happy knitting! Tag your finished Sophie Scarf and share with the knitting community.*