Bracken

Bracken Scarf by Irina Anikeeva

What is Being Made

Bracken is a sophisticated knitted scarf designed by Irina Anikeeva for Hudson + West. This finished scarf measures 14 inches (35 cm) in circumference and 70 inches (175 cm) in length, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various styling options. The scarf is worked in two halves using a unique construction method that creates a seamless, reversible design.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several advanced techniques to achieve its finished structure:

• Stranded knitting: A colorwork technique that allows two yarn colors to be worked simultaneously, creating intricate patterned sections throughout the scarf
• Circular knitting: The scarf is worked in the round using double-pointed needles, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a tubular construction
• Provisional cast on: This method allows stitches to be picked up later, enabling the two-half construction where both halves are worked from the same provisional cast-on edge
• Three-needle bind off: A technique for joining two sets of live stitches together, creating a secure and professional finish
• Tubular bind off (optional): An alternative finishing method that creates an especially refined edge

The construction process involves working the scarf in two separate halves. The first half begins at the provisional cast on and is worked in the round from the top down to the ribbed hem. The second half is then worked from the live stitches of the same provisional cast on, also proceeding in the round from the top down to the ribbed hem. This method creates a balanced, symmetrical design.

Stitches Used

The Bracken scarf utilizes fundamental knitting stitches combined with colorwork elements:

• Stockinette stitch: Forms the primary fabric of the scarf body, creating a smooth, refined surface
• Ribbing: Used for the hemmed edges, providing elasticity and a finished appearance
• Stranded colorwork stitches: Knit stitches worked with two colors held simultaneously to create the patterned design sections

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Bracken scarf is designed to be worked with Hudson + West Co. Weld yarn, a premium American yarn blend. The yarn composition is 70% U.S. Merino and 30% U.S. Corriedale, providing a balance of softness, durability, and natural fiber quality. Each skein contains 200 yards (183 meters) and weighs 1.76 ounces (50 grams).

The colorway combination specified for this project includes:

• MC (Main Color) Jam: A rich purple shade; 4 skeins required
• CC (Contrast Color) Aspen: A natural white shade; 1 skein required

This yarn weight is classified as 4-ply, offering a medium thickness suitable for creating fabric with good drape and definition.

Needles and Tools

The Bracken scarf requires two different needle sizes to accommodate different sections of the pattern:

• Size A (US 4 / 3.5 mm): Double-pointed needles or preferred method for working small circumferences; used for the stockinette portions of the scarf body
• Size B (US 3 / 3.25 mm): Double-pointed needles or preferred method for working small circumferences; used for the ribbing sections

The use of smaller needles for ribbing creates a tighter, more elastic fabric that frames the scarf edges beautifully.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to explore more complex construction methods. The combination of stranded colorwork, circular knitting, and the two-half construction method requires attention to detail and familiarity with multiple knitting techniques.