Knitting

Free Patterns, Tutorials and Project Ideas

Knit a Sweet Kerchief Scarf in Two Weights

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I’ve lately been drawn to little projects. I don’t know if that has to do with my complete lack of patience this time of year, or the fact that I’m deep into an involved project (an argyle vest) I’ve told myself I have to finish before I can start anything else, and maybe I’m wondering if I snuck in something little I would fail to notice breaking my own rule.

Whatever the reason, I’m thinking a lot about little kerchief style scarves that can be used as headbands or wrapped cutely around your neck for a little extra warmth. (The headband bit? Is because I’m growing out my bangs.)

Olga Putano Designs has a couple of cute projects of this sort in different yarn weights, called Distance.

The original version was worked in a fingering weight mohair yarn. The second iteration uses DK weight. They’re both charming little pieces that start at a point and expand into a long straightaway, then end in another point. The scarf is covered with a cable pattern that looks pretty easy even as the cables merge and change along the length of the project.

The fingering weight version comes in two sizes (the difference is actually in the width, but you can also adjust the length), while the DK weight version has three size options that vary in length and in width.

Project photos show the scarf wrapped up tight around the neck like a kerchief, or tied around the head to make a headband. The longest version is about 3.6 feet long, so it’s not standard adult scarf size, but it will still keep you warm, cozy and stylish, especially when we get to those days that are just a little warmer.

You can find the patterns on Ravelry: fingering | DK

And if you love Olga’s designs, check out my review of her book, Only Yoking.

[Photo: Olga Putano Designs]

Have you read?

Free Knitted Crown Pattern for Kids and Adults: A Sweet Handmade Dress-Up Idea

There’s something wonderfully charming about a knitted crown. It’s playful, useful for the dress-up basket, and just the sort of small project that gives a leftover ball of yarn a proper purpose. Much better than letting it roll around the cupboard for another three years.

This free knitted crown pattern for kids and adults combines a simple garter-stitch band with shaped triangular points. The mustard-gold colour gives it that storybook crown look, although pink, purple or woodland green would be equally lovely.

A Manageable Next Step for Beginner Knitters

The construction is the appealing part of this design. Everything is knitted flat, so you won’t need double-pointed needles or experience joining stitches in the round.

You knit the band first, then work each crown point separately over a group of 12 stitches. Paired decreases gradually narrow each triangle, giving you a small, repeatable section to concentrate on.

I’d describe this as a confident beginner knitting project. You’ll need to know how to knit, work two types of decreases, hold unused stitches and sew a simple seam. There are several yarn tails to weave in, so a little patience with finishing will help.

Three Sizes With Room to Personalise

The pattern includes three sizes, with seven, eight or nine crown points. Choose by the wearer’s head measurement rather than age, and check your gauge carefully. Yarn stretch will make a noticeable difference to the fit.

For birthdays, an embroidered initial would be a sweet finishing touch. Contrasting yarn diamonds could suggest little jewels without adding hard embellishments.

What to Know Before Casting On

This is a soft knitted crown, so expect gentle points rather than a rigid costume accessory. A springy wool or wool-blend yarn should give the shaping more support than a very drapey yarn.

The stitch calculations have been checked, but the design has not yet been sample-knitted. The accompanying image is an illustrative mockup, so the finished texture and proportions may vary with your yarn and tension.

For a small handmade birthday accessory or a cheerful addition to the dress-up box, this is an appealing idea. And if an adult needs a matching crown for supervising the royal household, the larger size has that covered too.