Infinity Entrelac Infinity Scarf

Infinity Entrelac Infinity Scarf by Michele Bernstein

What is Being Made

The Infinity Entrelac Infinity Scarf is an advanced-level knitted cowl or infinity scarf designed by Michele Bernstein. This project creates a continuous loop scarf using the entrelac technique, a sophisticated stitch construction method that produces an interlocking, woven appearance. The finished piece is intended to be worn as a cozy, dimensional accessory.

Entrelac Technique Overview

Entrelac is an advanced knitting technique that creates a fabric with a distinctive woven or basket-weave appearance. Rather than working in traditional rows across the entire width, entrelac involves working small triangular and rectangular sections that are picked up and knitted in alternating directions. This creates interlocking blocks of stitches that sit at angles to one another, producing both visual interest and dimensional texture. The technique requires careful attention to stitch pickup and directional changes, making it suitable for experienced knitters.

Project Versions and Yarn Options

Version A (DK Weight): Uses approximately 400 yards of DK weight yarn. Recommended yarn options include Crystal Palace Taos, Noro Chirimen, and Noro Silk Garden Lite. The Noro Silk Garden Lite, which was discontinued, is being brought back by Noro in Spring 2011 specifically for this pattern.

Version B (Fingering Weight): Requires 2 fifty-gram balls of fingering weight yarn, totaling approximately 400 yards. Suggested yarn choices include Crystal Palace Mini Mochi, Jojoland Melody, and Schoppel-Wolle Zauberball.

Needles and Gauge

Needle Sizes: For the DK weight version, use US size 7 (4.5 mm) straight or circular needles. For the fingering weight version, use US size 5 (3.75 mm) needles. Additionally, prepare a needle two sizes larger than your working needle specifically for binding off loosely, which prevents a tight edge.

Gauge: The pattern specifies 5 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch when working with DK yarn, or 6 stitches per inch with fingering weight yarn. However, the designer notes that gauge is not critical for this project—the priority is achieving a squishy, pleasing fabric that feels good to wear.

Stitches and Construction

The Infinity Entrelac Infinity Scarf begins with a loose cast-on of 26 stitches, followed by one purl row to establish the base. The pattern then moves into base triangles, which form the foundation for the entrelac structure. The construction involves:

• Knit and purl rows worked in short rows to build triangular sections
• Slip stitches (worked knitwise) to create clean edges between sections
• Progressive increases in stitch count as triangles expand (from 2 stitches to 3 stitches and beyond)
• Directional changes that create the characteristic interlocking entrelac blocks

The pattern requires careful tracking of which stitches to work and when to turn, as the entrelac method involves frequent directional shifts rather than continuous row-by-row knitting.

Difficulty Level

This project is classified as advanced, reflecting the complexity of the entrelac technique. Knitters should be comfortable with short-row shaping, stitch pickup, and maintaining consistent tension through directional changes. The technique itself demands focus and attention to pattern instructions, making it an excellent choice for experienced knitters seeking a challenging and rewarding project.

Materials Summary

The Infinity Entrelac Infinity Scarf requires approximately 400 yards of yarn in either DK or fingering weight, depending on the chosen version. Needles in appropriate sizes (US 7 for DK, US 5 for fingering weight) and a larger needle for binding off are essential. The designer emphasizes choosing yarn and needle combinations that produce a fabric with pleasant drape and squishiness rather than strict gauge adherence.