A scarf is the classic first knitting project because it is just a long rectangle with no shaping to worry about. This shows you how to plan the width, knit the length, and finish it neatly using simple garter stitch.
What you'll need
- Two balls of worsted or chunky yarn
- 5mm to 8mm knitting needles
- Scissors
- A yarn needle for weaving in ends
Step by step
- Cast on for the widthCast on enough stitches for the scarf width you want, usually around 25 to 40 with worsted yarn. More stitches make a wider scarf.
- Knit every rowWork the knit stitch across every stitch of every row. Knitting all rows this way creates garter stitch, which lies flat and doesn't curl at the edges.
- Keep the width evenCount your stitches every few rows so you don't accidentally add or lose any, which would make the edges wobble in and out.
- Keep knitting to lengthContinue until the scarf reaches your target length, often around 150 to 180 cm for an adult. Lay it out flat now and then to check.
- Cast off looselyBind off all the stitches, keeping the tension relaxed so the end stays as stretchy as the rest of the scarf.
- Weave in the endsThread each loose yarn tail onto a yarn needle and run it back through several stitches on the wrong side, then trim the excess.
Handy tips
- Chunky yarn on big needles knits up fast, which keeps a first scarf from feeling endless.
- Garter stitch looks the same on both sides, so there is no wrong side to hide.
- Join a new ball at the start of a row rather than the middle so the join is easier to hide.
FAQ
How much yarn do I need for a scarf?
A basic worsted-weight scarf usually takes around 300 to 400 metres, roughly two average balls. Chunky yarn needs a similar total length but fewer stitches.
How long should a scarf be?
A common length is about the same as your height, so roughly 150 to 180 cm for most adults. Make it longer if you like to wrap it twice.
Why do the edges of my scarf curl?
Curling comes from stockinette stitch. Garter stitch, where you knit every row, lies flat, which is why it is recommended for scarves.