Knit a Mosaic Scarf

I know I’ve said this before, but in case you missed it, I am a big cheerleader for mosaic knitting. I don’t feel like it’s ever had the popularity of some other knitting techniques, particularly other colorwork knitting options, but it’s such a great way to make simple geometric repeating patterns on the surface of a knitting project.

Mosaic knitting looks a lot more complicated than it is, but you’re only working with one color of yarn per row and the colorwork is achieved by strategically slipping stitches to make the pattern. Mosaic knitting patterns are worked from charts, but since the patterns are geometric and symmetrical, once you get the basics of reading and following the chart down it’s really easy to do.

If you’ve never tried mosaic knitting before, you should, and this scarf would be a good place to start.

The Rumi Scarf by Matthew Schrank uses two colors of worsted weight yarn and a simple diamond mosaic knitting pattern. This pattern makes a nice big scarf, measuring 17 inches, or 42.5 cm wide and 69 inches/ 172.5 cm long. You could adjust the size to make it smaller if you like, or use a lighter weight yarn to make it smaller with the same number of stitches the pattern calls for. Or just make a big scarf that will keep you cozy no matter what winter throws at you.

The pattern notes suggest carrying the yarn up the side consistently for a braid effect along the edge, which is a great idea since there’s not a border on the project. They also used stitch markers to keep track of the repeats, which you may find helpful, particularly if you are new to mosaic knitting.

You can find this pattern on Ravelry. I hope you’ll give it, or some other mosaic knitting project, a try. I think it’s a lot of fun and a cool effect.

[Photo: Matthew Schrank]

Mosaic Shawl Knitting Patterns

Knit a Cowl Using Simple Mosaic Designs

Mosaic Knitting Patterns

Next Pattern:

Sashiko is a traditional Japanese embroidery technique that uses running stitches to make lines (straight or otherwise) that reinforce and insulate fabric. It can be used as a mending technique or for decorative purposes, and it has become popular in recent years as a visible mending technique.

It’s also the inspiration behind the Sashiko Tee by Elenor Mortensen. This top down, circular yoke top is worked in the round with allover stranded knitting designs reminiscent of intricate sashiko stitching.

You’ll find floral patterns, starbursts, straight lines and individual colorwork stitches in this design.

The pattern is offered in six sizes and two different gauges (both use fingering weight yarn) making a dozen different size options. The finished bust circumference of the sweater ranges from 33.8 to 57 inches, or 86 to 145 cm.

The project calls for two colors, and I love the traditional blue and white of the designer’s sample, but some of the projects shown on Ravelry use more than two or use a multicolored yarn as one of the options, which gives it a different look that’s even more interesting. There are also some projects that show longer sleeves, repeating the patterns from the body on the sleeves, which is a great move if you need a sweater for the fall.

I know I say this a lot but it’s worth your time to look at the different ways people have approached this sweater by clicking on the projects tab on Ravelry. You’ll find different colors and sleeves, different ribbing treatments, added beads, a bit of mohair, different lengths, subtle colors and bolder choices…so many fun options.

The pattern is available in English, French and German, and you can grab a copy of Ravelry. I think this one would be a fun way to get into colorwork knitting without having to deal with a bunch of colors, and you get a cool result and lots of practice following a chart.

[Photo: Elenor Mortensen]

Next Pattern:

Have you read?