Chunky colour block scarf

Chunky Colour Block Scarf by Eight-by-Six

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern creates a chunky colour block scarf designed by Amanda Hurrell for Eight-by-Six. The finished scarf measures approximately 230cm long by 25cm wide, making it a substantial accessory suitable for layering and warmth. The design features colour blocking, where distinct sections of different colours are knitted sequentially to create visual interest and contrast throughout the length of the scarf.

Techniques and Construction

The Chunky Colour Block Scarf is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques, making it an ideal project for beginners. The pattern is written in UK knitting terms and employs garter stitch as the primary stitch structure. Garter stitch is created by knitting every row, which produces a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges that is both forgiving for new knitters and visually appealing. The colour blocking technique involves changing yarn colours at regular intervals to create distinct horizontal bands of colour throughout the scarf.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes basic knitting stitches suitable for beginners:

• Garter stitch (knit every row): The foundation stitch used throughout the entire scarf, providing a simple yet effective texture
• Cast on: The pattern recommends cable cast on, though knitters may substitute their preferred cast-on method
• Cast off: Required to finish the scarf securely

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Chunky Colour Block Scarf is designed to be worked with super chunky weight yarn, which allows the project to progress quickly and creates a substantial, cosy finished garment. The pattern calls for King Cole Timeless Super Chunky and Timeless Classic Super Chunky yarn in 100g balls. Each ball contains approximately 93 yards (85 metres) of yarn composed of 90% premium acrylic and 10% alpaca blend, providing both durability and softness.

The project requires five 100g balls of yarn in total, worked across five different colours in the following order:

• Timeless Turquoise 4453
• Timeless Classic Topaz 4649
• Timeless Grey 4454
• Timeless Classic Quartz 4650
• Timeless Rose Petal 4450

Tools and Equipment

The pattern requires the following tools:

• 10mm single pointed needles: Essential for working with the super chunky yarn at the correct gauge
• Knitters darning needle: Used for weaving in yarn ends and finishing the scarf
• Scissors: For cutting yarn

Tension and Sizing

The pattern specifies a tension of 10 stitches over 14 rows equalling 10x10cm. Achieving correct tension is important for obtaining the intended finished dimensions of 230cm long by 25cm wide. The pattern begins with casting on 25 stitches using 10mm needles in the first colour (Turquoise), establishing the width of the scarf.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner level, making it accessible to knitters new to the craft. The use of garter stitch, straightforward colour changes, and basic construction techniques mean that even inexperienced knitters can successfully complete this project. The super chunky yarn and larger needle size also make the work easier to handle and mistakes simpler to identify and correct.

Care Instructions

The finished Chunky Colour Block Scarf is machine washable at 30 degrees, allowing for easy maintenance. The scarf can be cool tumble dried. However, ironing and dry cleaning are not recommended for this garment, preserving the texture and integrity of the acrylic and alpaca blend yarn.