How to knit a scarf (a beginner's first project)
A garter-stitch scarf is a good first knitting project. Cast on 35 stitches, knit every row until the scarf is 150 cm long, then bind off.
By Julia WallinCo-founder and editor
To knit a simple scarf, cast on 35 stitches with worsted yarn on 5 to 6 mm needles. Knit every row until the scarf is about 150 cm (60 in) long. Then bind off and weave in the ends. This is called garter stitch. It uses only the knit stitch, so it is a good first project.
What you need
| Item | Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Yarn | 350 to 550 m (190 to 300 g) of worsted yarn, about 2 to 3 skeins |
| Needles | 5 to 6 mm (US 8 to 10) straight needles |
| Other | Tapestry needle and scissors |
Buy all the skeins from the same dye lot so the colour matches. A needle one size larger than the ball band suggests gives a softer scarf. → What you need to start knitting
The pattern
Cast on 35 stitches. The long-tail cast on works well. For a wider or narrower scarf, cast on more or fewer stitches.
Knit every stitch on every row. → How to knit the knit stitch
Continue until the scarf is about 150 cm (60 in) long, or longer if you want to wrap it twice.
Bind off loosely so the edge does not pull in. → How to bind off
Weave in the ends with the tapestry needle and cut off the rest.
Ways to vary the scarf
Stripes: change colour every few rows.
Seed stitch instead of garter stitch, once you can purl.
Chunky yarn on large needles. The scarf is finished much faster.
Frequently asked questions
How many stitches do I cast on for a scarf?
About 30 to 40 stitches in worsted yarn gives a scarf that is 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in) wide. Cast on more stitches for a wider scarf.
How long should a knitted scarf be?
About 150 cm (60 in). Make it 180 to 200 cm long if you want to wrap it twice. A child's scarf can be about as long as the child is tall.
How much yarn do I need to knit a scarf?
About 350 to 550 m (190 to 300 g) of worsted yarn, which is 2 to 3 skeins. Garter stitch uses more yarn than stockinette, so plan for the higher number.
Can you knit a scarf with two needles?
Yes. A scarf is knitted back and forth on two straight needles.
How long does it take to knit a scarf?
A beginner needs about 10 to 15 hours. With chunky yarn it goes much faster.
Co-founder and editor at Knyt. Knits every guide before it is published.
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