Salt Hill Scarf

Salt Hill Scarf by Andi Smith

What Is Being Made

The Salt Hill Scarf is a sophisticated knitted accessory designed by independent designer Andi Smith. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a finished scarf measuring approximately 10 inches wide by 64 inches long, though final dimensions may vary depending on individual gauge and total yardage used. The scarf showcases an elegant cable knit design that combines both knit and purl stitches in a structured, repeating pattern.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This advanced-level knitting project employs cable knitting as its primary decorative technique. Cable knitting involves crossing groups of stitches over one another to create twisted, rope-like textures that add visual interest and dimension to the finished piece. The pattern utilizes chart reading, which requires knitters to follow a visual representation of stitches row by row rather than written-out instructions. This technique is essential for accurately placing cables and maintaining pattern consistency throughout the scarf's length.

The pattern includes both right-crossing and left-crossing cable variations, which are directional techniques that determine whether cables twist toward the right or left side of the fabric. These directional cables create a balanced, symmetrical appearance across the width of the scarf. Each pattern repeat measures 2.25 inches wide by 2.75 inches high, creating a manageable unit that knitters repeat to achieve the full scarf length.

Stitches Used

• Pfb (Purl through back then front): An increase stitch that creates one additional stitch by working into the same stitch twice
• 2/1 RCp (2 over 1 right cable purl): Slip one stitch to cable needle and hold in back, knit two stitches, then purl one from cable needle
• 2/1 LCp (2 over 1 left cable purl): Slip two stitches to cable needle and hold in front, purl one stitch, then knit two from cable needle
• 2/2 RCp (2 over 2 right cable purl): A larger cable variation crossing two stitches over two stitches with right-leaning direction
• 2/2 LCp (2 over 2 left cable purl): A larger cable variation crossing two stitches over two stitches with left-leaning direction
• 2/2 RC (2 over 2 right cable): A two-over-two cable cross without purl stitches
• 2/2 LC (2 over 2 left cable): A two-over-two cable cross without purl stitches, leaning left
• Knit and Purl stitches: Foundation stitches that create the base fabric and define the cable pattern

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Salt Hill Scarf pattern calls for 4-ply fingering weight yarn, a lightweight yarn category that produces delicate, refined fabric suitable for scarves. The pattern specifies Baah! La Jolla yarn, which is 100% Merino wool with 400 yards per 100 grams. The model shown in the pattern uses two skeins: one skein of Night Sky (contrasting color) and one skein of Grey Onyx (main color). However, the pattern notes that any two identical fingering weight yarns can be substituted, providing flexibility for yarn selection while maintaining consistent gauge and finished dimensions.

Knitters will need US size 4 (3.5mm) needles to work this project at the specified gauge of 2.25 inches per 2.75 inches for each pattern repeat. A cable needle is listed as optional, though it is essential for executing the cable stitches that define this scarf's appearance. A yarn needle is required for weaving in ends after completion.

Skill Requirements

This pattern is rated as advanced difficulty and requires knitters to possess several key skills. Proficiency with simple cable techniques is essential, as the scarf features multiple cable stitch variations. The ability to read knitting charts accurately is crucial, as the pattern provides visual stitch maps rather than row-by-row written instructions. Knitters should be comfortable with gauge swatching and blocking, as the gauge listed is measured after blocking, which is the process of washing and shaping the finished knit to even out stitches and set the fabric.

Pattern copyright Andi Smith 2013. This is a downloadable PDF pattern suitable for experienced knitters seeking a structured cable knit project with professional finishing