Reversible Braided Cable Scarf

Reversible Braided Cable Scarf by Stefanie Johnson

What is Being Made

The Reversible Braided Cable Scarf is a knitted accessory designed as a versatile, unisex scarf that features a reversible construction. The finished scarf measures 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) wide by 50 inches (127 cm) long, making it an ideal length for wrapping around the neck or draping across the shoulders. The scarf's reversible design means both sides display the same attractive braided cable pattern, allowing the wearer to style it from either direction without a distinct right or wrong side.

Techniques Used

This scarf showcases several key knitting techniques that contribute to its reversible quality and polished appearance. The design employs slipped stitch edges throughout, with the first stitch of each row slipped purl wise and the last stitch of each row knit through the back loop. This edge treatment creates a neat, finished appearance along both selvedges. The reversible nature of the scarf is achieved through the strategic use of cable crossing techniques that work equally well when viewed from either side. The pattern utilizes 1x1 right and left crossing cables that are worked with both knit and purl stitches, creating the braided effect visible on both surfaces of the finished piece. For knitters who prefer not to use a cable needle, the pattern includes instructions for working cables without this optional tool.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch
• Purl stitch
• Slipped stitches (purl wise)
• 1x1 right crossing cables
• 1x1 left crossing cables
• Knit through the back loop

Materials and Gauge

The scarf is worked in Aran weight yarn, which is a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating defined cable textures. The pattern was designed and shown using Berroco Comfort Solids in the colorway 9791 Gooseberry Heather, requiring 210 yards (192 meters) per 100 grams—one skein is sufficient for the standard scarf size. Knitters will need US 9 (5.5 mm) knitting needles or the size required to obtain the specified gauge. The pattern gauge is 31 stitches and 24 rows equal 4 inches (10 cm) in the cable pattern. It is important to note that cables pull in the fabric drastically, which affects the finished dimensions, making gauge particularly crucial for this project. An optional cable needle may be used, though the pattern provides alternatives for cable crossing without one. A darning needle is required for finishing.

Customization Options

The Reversible Braided Cable Scarf offers flexibility for customization. For a wider scarf, knitters may add increments of 6 stitches to the cast-on count, allowing for a personalized fit. Additional yarn beyond the single skein shown will be needed if the scarf is made wider or longer than the standard finished dimensions.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as beginner difficulty, making it an accessible project for knitters new to cable work. The straightforward cable techniques and clear edge treatment instructions provide an excellent introduction to reversible knitting and cable crossing methods.