Autumn: Berries

Autumn: Berries Knitted Scarf by Leenane Norhem

What Is Being Made

Autumn: Berries is a rectangular knitted scarf designed by Leenane Norhem. This intermediate-level knitting project produces a finished scarf measuring 63 inches (1.60 meters) in length and 24 inches (60 centimeters) in width. The design features decorative lace patterning inspired by berries, creating an elegant accessory suitable for autumn wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This scarf employs several advanced knitting techniques characteristic of lace knitting. The pattern utilizes yarn overs to create openwork sections throughout the design. Decreases are incorporated through slip-stitch techniques, specifically the slip 2 stitches, knit 1, pass slipped stitches over (sl2, k1, p2sso) decrease method, which creates elegant stitch transitions within the lace motifs. Double yarn overs are featured in the pattern, requiring special handling on wrong-side rows with alternating knit and purl stitches to maintain pattern integrity. The scarf construction involves working from charted instructions, with all charts read from right to left, and only right-side rows charted while wrong-side rows are worked in stockinette stitch (purl across) with exceptions noted above double yarn overs.

Stitches and Pattern Structure

The scarf is constructed in three distinct sections:

• Bottom Berries Edge: Worked over 48 rows using Chart A (parts 1 and 2), establishing the foundational berry-inspired lace motif at the scarf's base
• Central Section: Spans 344 rows (rows 49 through 392) and features Chart B repeated 21.5 times on either side, creating a symmetrical berries lace frame that forms the primary visual design element

The core stitch pattern includes the sequence: knit 1, (yarn over, slip 2 stitches, knit 1, pass slipped stitches over, yarn over) repeated 3 times, knit 1. This repeating motif creates the characteristic berry-like lace openings throughout the scarf. The pattern begins with a cast-on of 153 stitches, providing adequate width for the design repetitions.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The scarf is worked on US 4 (3.5mm) needles, sized appropriately for the delicate lace yarn weight. The recommended yarn is Fyberspates Scrumptious Lace (2ply), a luxury blend composed of 55% Merino Wool and 45% Silk. Each skein provides 1094 yards (1000.4 meters) of yardage and weighs 100 grams, offering excellent yardage for this project. The silk content adds lustrous sheen and drape to the finished scarf, while the merino wool provides warmth and elasticity ideal for lace knitting. The 2-ply construction allows the delicate lace patterns to display beautifully while maintaining structural integrity.

Gauge and Finishing

A gauge swatch is provided to ensure proper sizing and pattern definition. The swatch is cast on with 11 stitches and worked over 14 rows using the core stitch pattern, then cast off loosely and blocked to measure 2 x 2 inches. Proper blocking is essential for lace knitting to open up the yarn overs and create the intended drape and finished dimensions of the completed scarf.