The perfect combination of your favorite scarf knitting patterns all rounded up into a single post! From beginner to advanced, there’s a scarf for you here.
I love wearing scarves! It takes two seconds to grab one from the closet and throw it on but it always makes me look so much more put together. Not to mention that it keeps me extra cozy and warm!
There are so many different scarf knitting patterns out there. It was really hard to narrow this curated list down to my top 25!
I tried to include a little something for everyone in this free scarf knitting patterns list. There are knitting patterns for beginner knitters and also knitting patterns for more experienced knitters.
There are rectangular scarves, triangle scarves, cowls, and more. There’s also a wide variety of yarn weights and colors used. You can use straight needles or circular needles. Check them out and see what you think!
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
ZickZack Scarf
Wow! This stylish zick zack scarf knit is sure to turn some heads. The hero of this design is the self-striping yarn. Hooray for less weaving in ends! The chevrons are worked with simple single scarf knit increases and decreases so this pattern is actually pretty easy.
Designer: Christy Kamm
Yarn: Lang Yarns Mille Colori Baby (Fingering Weight #1)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
The Prismatic Scarf
This yummy-looking scarf was specially designed to showcase handpainted yarn. Finally, you have a good excuse to buy that artisan yarn you’ve been eyeing on Etsy! To knit a scarf with this reversible design, you'll use i-cord and diagonal slipped-stitch ribbing techniques to achieve its signature look.
Designer: Huan-Hua Chye
Yarn: Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend (DK Weight #1)
Photo Credit:www.purlsoho.com
Checkerboard Lace Scarf
Step out in style with this lovely geometric lace scarf. Want to know how to knit a scarf like this? It looks quite intricate, but it's only basic yarn overs, knit two together, and slip knits. Really! The repeating nature of this design also makes it easy to spot mistakes, so you can catch them before you’re too far along.
Designer: Purl Soho
Yarn: The Fibre Co. Canopy (Fingering Weight #1)
Photo Credit:hipknitizer.blogspot.com
Dudester Scarf
This man’s scarf was designed for knitting a scarf that can take him from the office to the weekend. It’s polished enough to wear with an overcoat but not too stuffy to throw on when he grabs drinks with the guys. This design features the hurdle stitch with garter ribs.
Designer: HipKnitizer
Yarn: Moda Dea Bamboo Wool (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:andresueknits.wordpress.com
Scarf For the BirdsPattern
Do you know an avid bird watcher who would love to knit a scarf like this? This fun reversible design features birds on a wire. If you’re already familiar with the double knitting technique, then this scarf really isn’t too tricky. Just follow along with the chart for the color changes.
Designer: AndreSueKnits
Yarn: Filatura Lanarota Rich Wool (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Honey Cowl
Sometimes basic is best! Who knew that a simple slip stitch cowl could look like you just bought it at the shops? This scarf was designed to be thick and warm, and it also still has plenty of drapes. (as you can see!) The pattern is available in two different lengths.
Designer: Antonia Shankland
Yarn: madelinetosh Tosh (DK Weight #3)
Photo Credit:www.yarnharlot.ca
One row handspun scarf
Looking for free easy scarf knitting patterns? Patterns with one-row repeats are the best kinds of patterns for watching Netflix or listening to an audiobook. Even better, this scarf is reversible and easily customizable for width and length. It was designed with handspun yarn in mind.
Designer: Yarn Harlot
Yarn: Worsted Weight #5
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Workday Scarf
Want a lace scarf knitting pattern? Lovely lilac really shines on a bright sunny day in this sophisticated scarf. You can get this posh look for yourself with the easy knitting pattern. It’s mostly simple garter stitches and lace work on the edges. Beautiful
Designer: Sue Flanders Designs
Yarn: Araucania Huasco Multy Botany Lace (Fingering Weight #1)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Drop Stitch Scarf
Variegated yarns find their day in the sun with this beautiful and beloved scarf. The simple drop stitch pattern has been translated into 6 different languages. A different designer has made a drop stitch hat to match, and yet another designer has made a drop stitch tam to match.
Designer: Frazzled Knits
Yarn: Hand Maiden Fine Yarn Lady Godiva (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Pembroke Scarf
Asymmetric scarves are some of my all-time favorites because they never wear the same way twice. This design is especially amazing because it only uses 100g of sock yarn and it features an easy 2-row repeat using knit front back and slip slip knit stitches.
Photo Credit:www.purlsoho.com
Jasmine Scarf
I love that you can tell how super soft this scarf is just by looking at the picture! The alpaca, merino, linen blend scarf looks absolutely luxurious with 5 columns of cables worked up the length. What a polished design!
Designer: Purl Soho
Yarn: Purl Soho Flax Down (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
One Skein Wonder
Variegated yarns are encouraged for this fun scarf, a lovely spiral design that shows the color changes off on the bias. You’ll be working from corner to edge and using increases and bind-off stitches to achieve the signature spiral shape.
Designer: The Public Knitter
Yarn: Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock (DK Weight #3)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Mini Mania Scarf
It is worth casting on this scarf lengthwise to achieve the beautiful woven-like fabric. Scrap yarn is encouraged, which is great for changing colors often and really maximizing the woven effect that happens when using the linen stitch.
Designer: Sarah Core
Yarn: Koigu Painter's Palette Premium Merino (Fingering Weight #1)
Searching for free scarf knitting patterns for beginners? Show off your favorite self-striping yarn with this mock braided scarf that is a twist on a garter stitch scarf. You’ll be using easy peasy garter stitches (simple knit stitch) in short rows to achieve the stacked look. This design also gives suggestions for working with different weights of yarn if you don’t have any worsted on hand.
Designer: Hither and Yarn - Adventures in Knitting and Life
Yarn: Twisted Fiber Art duch*ess Striping (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Infinitude Scarf
Knit in the round, this stunning scarf tutorial features both horizontal and vertical ribs for maximum “stretchability” and elegance. The fun thing about this pattern is all the ways you can wear it: as a scarf, a cowl, a hooded cowl, and more!
Designer: Jeni Chase
Yarn: Jade Sapphire 6-ply Mongolian Cashmere (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:o-wool.com
Blue Bell Hill Scarf
One giant chevron from end to end, this scarf is a great way to have fun and play with varying lengths of stripes and mismatched ends. You’ll be using both the garter chevron stitch and the stockinette chevron stitch for added texture.
Designer: Jocelyn J. Tunney for O Wool
Yarn: O Wool Local (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:web.archive.org
Easy Striped Triangle Scarf
Triangle scarves with long tapered ends give the wearer endless options for styling and tying. This easy design uses the garter stitch. It’s actually a striped scarf that uses 3 different colors, but all the colors are very similar so you get a really neat effect.
Designer: Churchmouse Yarns and Teas
Yarn: Rowan Soft Yak (DK Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.doctorwhoscarf.com
Doctor Who Scarf - Season 12
When it comes to knitting scarves, you can remake the iconic Doctor Who scarf with this very detailed pattern. This 12-foot-long scarf is all about the stripes, so the pattern includes detailed color recommendations for a handful of different weights.
Designer: Crocheters of Awesome
Yarn: Brown Sheep Nature Spun Sport Jo Sharp Classic (DK Weight #4)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Frostlight pattern
Stretch your knitting skills with this stylish textured scarf knitting project. You’ll be using both eyelet and ribbed stitches. Even knitters new to lacework are sure to master this pattern because there are lots of helpful tips, charts, and video tutorials. I also love the fringe on this one.
Designer: Robin Ulrich Studio
Yarn: Malabrigo Yarn (Worsted Weight Yarn #4)
Photo Credit:gina-michele.com
Fox Scarf Knitting Pattern
Channel your inner 1920s glamour side and create your cruelty-free fox stole using this simple scarf pattern. This easy design utilizes mostly the garter stitch with a hint of knit ribbing. A cleverly designed loop is hidden under the fox's head to hold the tail securely in place.
Designer: Gina Michele
Yarn: Lion Brand Vanna's Choice (Worsted Weight Yarn #4)
Photo Credit:www.purlsoho.com
Falling Snow Scarf
I hate driving in it, but I’ll admit that I do find myself wishing for a bit more snow where I live. Wondering how long should a scarf be? This scarf perfectly captures the beauty of falling snow in its fair isle design. It’s knit in a tube so it’s double warm, and you can’t see the wrong side of the work.
Designer: Purl Soho
Yarn: Purl Soho Posy (Fingering Weight #1)
Photo Credit:itsastitchup.co.uk
Staggered Rib Scarf
This easy scarf knitting pattern ticks all the boxes: easy, reversible, and quick to make thanks to the chunky weight yarn and the small size. It's the perfect size to tuck into your coat and ward away chills. This design features an easy diagonal ribbing that only uses knit and purl stitches.
Designer: It's a Stitch Up
Yarn: Mirasol Yarn Sulka (Bulky Yarn #5)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Springtime Bandit
Here’s another beginner lace pattern. This beautiful symmetrical triangle scarf uses basic stitches that are generally charted out into lovely lace designs. The pattern has more than 3000 projects on Ravelry if you need color inspiration!
Designer: Kate Gagnon Osborn
Yarn: Kelbourne Woolens Germantown (Worsted Weight #4)
Photo Credit:hillcountryweavers.com
Madison Scarf
Where I live it’s winter, but I’m sure there are some readers out there who live in warm places. (I’m a little jealous) So here’s a scarf for you. It’s a stunning light and airy scarf that’s worked on the bias. I love the way the ends of the scarf curl so gracefully.
Designer: Suzanne Middlebrooks for Hill Country Weavers
Yarn: Anzula Mermaid (Lace Weight #0)
Photo Credit:www.ravelry.com
Side Line Scarf
Super bulky yarn will keep you super warm in this super easy knitted scarf. When searching for scarf knitting patterns for beginners, consider this option: The basic knit 3, purl 3 repeat is perfect for mindless knitting while multitasking. Oh, and did I mention that this cute chunky scarf is reversible?
Designer: Fifty Four Ten Studio
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick (Super Bulky Yarn #6)
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Bonus! Extra scarf knitting patterns…
Here is a free scarf knitting pattern right here on Love.Life.Yarn!! I designed a crochet version of this pattern that had so many requests for a knit version that I just had to make one!
This is such a simple pattern repeat you can almost do it on autopilot, and it works great!
This can be either a flat scarf or an infinity scarf knitting pattern by sewing the ends together.
Designer: Amanda Saladin (me!)
Yarn: Red Heart Boutique Unforgettable (Worsted Weight #4)
Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Perfect Knit Scarf for Beginners
How to Knit a Scarf for Beginners Step By Step
Types of Knit Scarves
Knit scarves come in a delightful selection of patterns, each with its unique charm and skill level. Beginners might start with the simple garter stitch or stockinette stitch, which are foundational in scarf knitting. For those seeking a bit of texture, the seed stitch or moss stitch offers a simple yet elegant pattern.
More advanced knitters can delve into fisherman’s rib, cable knits, or simple lace patterns, perfect for colder months. The keyhole scarf and infinity scarf pattern are stylish choices, with the latter being a great project for warmer weather.
For those who prefer a quick knit, easy lace scarf knitting patterns and simple scarf knitting patterns for beginners are available. Variations in yarn, like chunky yarn for a warm scarf or luxury yarn for a softer feel, add diversity to your projects. The Noro scarf and Zick Zack scarf stand out for their vibrant color play, great for knitters who love working with variegated yarn or solid colors.
What You Need to Knit a Scarf
The essentials for knitting a scarf include knitting needles of the right needle size, typically bigger needles for bulky weight yarns like a Harry Potter scarf knitting pattern.
Yarn weight plays a crucial role in the final product, with bulky yarns ideal for a quick and warm scarf, while finer yarns are perfect for intricate patterns like a lace scarf.
Don’t forget stitch markers to keep track of your pattern, and a tapestry needle for finishing ends.
If you’re working on a stash dive scarf, this is a great way to use up leftover yarn.
Always have a project bag to keep your knitting organized, especially for larger projects like a shawl or a men’s scarf. For specific patterns, like the Harry Potter scarf knitting pattern or an easy lace scarf, ensure you have the recommended yarn and gauge to achieve the desired look and feel.
Tips for Knitting Perfect Scarves
- Gauge is Important: It’s a good idea to knit a gauge swatch, especially for patterns with specific size requirements, like a keyhole scarf or a unisex scarf, but it’s not required.
- Choose the Right Yarn: Select yarn based on the pattern and personal preference. Consider warm scarf options for colder months and lighter yarns for warmer weather.
- Needle Size Matters: The size of the needles can significantly affect the texture and size of your scarf. Big needles are great for chunky yarn and a quick knit.
- Keep an Even Tension: Consistency in your stitch tension is key to a smooth, professional-looking scarf.
- Be Mindful of Scarf Dimensions: Commonly asked questions like “how wide should a scarf be” or “how long should a scarf be” depend on personal preference and the specific pattern used.
- Experiment with Patterns: Try new stitch patterns like the slip stitch pattern or cable knit for a fun scarf. Free patterns and tutorials are a great resource.
- Finishing Touches: Properly weave in ends for a neat finish. A tapestry needle can be a handy tool for this.
- Join a Knitting Community: Engage with a Facebook group or social media platforms to share your final product and get feedback.
Remember, knitting a scarf is not just about the end product but also the joy of the creative process. Whether you’re a new knitter or an experienced one, every scarf you knit is a step forward in your knitting journey.
Final Thoughts on Our Scarf Knitting Patterns
Are you feeling scarfy yet? Which free knitting pattern are you eyeing to make for yourself or for a friend? Did I forget one of your favorite free scarf knitting patterns? Talk to me, let me know in the comments below!
Here’s a friendly reminder that you’re definitely going to need to save this page to your Pinterest board for knitting so you can refer back to it. I hate when I forget to do this for a great article and then I can’t find it again! Anyone who’s ever dug through their internet history before to find a really good article knows what I’m talking about – haha!
Smash that follow button if you love free knitting patterns!
Happy Knitting!
Amanda
