Varsity Stripes Scarf & Hat Set in Caron United - Downloadable PDF

Varsity Stripes Scarf & Hat Set in Caron United — Knitting Pattern Summary

The Varsity Stripes Scarf & Hat Set is a free, downloadable PDF knitting pattern published by Caron, rated intermediate in difficulty. The set includes two coordinating accessories — a boldly striped scarf with fringe and a matching striped hat with a pompom — both worked in classic two-color varsity-style stripes using Caron United™ yarn. The pattern is an excellent project for knitters who are comfortable with basic stitches and ready to practice working in the round on both circular and double-pointed needles.

About the Yarn and Materials

Both pieces are knitted in Caron United™, an aran weight (weight 4) yarn. Each ball contains 4 oz / 113 g and approximately 235 yards / 215 m. The colorway pairing used in this pattern is:

• Main Color (MC): Soft Grey Heather (06004)
• Contrast A: Burgundy (06009)

The two-tone combination gives the finished set a classic varsity or collegiate aesthetic, with the heathered grey providing a neutral base and the burgundy delivering bold stripe contrast.

Required materials include:

• A size U.S. 7 (4.5 mm) circular knitting needle, 16" [40.5 cm] long (or size needed to obtain gauge)
• A set of 4 size U.S. 7 (4.5 mm) double-pointed knitting needles (for the hat crown decreases)
• A stitch marker
• A tapestry needle for finishing

Gauge

The pattern calls for a gauge of 17 stitches and 23 rows = 4" [10 cm] in Garter Rib Pattern. Achieving the correct gauge is important, particularly for the hat, which is sized to fit two head circumferences.

The Varsity Stripes Scarf

Finished Measurements

The scarf measures approximately 8½" x 68" [21.5 x 173 cm], excluding fringe. This generous length makes it a warm, substantial accessory suitable for cold-weather wear.

Techniques and Construction

The scarf is worked flat using a Garter Rib Pattern, which combines knit and purl stitches in a ribbed format to create a fabric with both texture and elasticity. The Garter Rib Pattern alternates between a knit row and a K2, P2 rib row, producing a structured yet stretchy fabric that lies flat and drapes well.

Stripes are introduced through a Stripe Pattern that alternates between the Main Color and Contrast A at set intervals, creating the signature varsity stripe look across the length of the scarf. The stripe sequence is worked over multiple repeats to build the full length of the piece.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K)
• Purl (P)
• K2, P2 Rib — the foundation of the Garter Rib Pattern

Finishing: Fringe

The scarf is finished with a decorative fringe at both cast-on and bound-off ends. Lengths of both MC (Soft Grey Heather) and Contrast A (Burgundy) are cut to 16" [40.5 cm], and groups of 5 strands are knotted evenly along each end. This two-color fringe reinforces the varsity stripe theme and adds a fun, sporty finishing touch.

Yarn Requirements

• MC Soft Grey Heather: 2 balls
• Contrast A Burgundy: 2 balls

The Varsity Stripes Hat