Simple Things

Simple Things by Robin Hunter – Knitted Scarves and Shawls

What Is Being Made

Simple Things is a versatile knitting pattern designed by Robin Hunter that offers two project options: a classic scarf measuring 10 inches wide by 76 inches long, or a larger shawl measuring 20 inches wide by 60 inches long. Both versions feature the same elegant construction method, making this pattern adaptable to your preferred finished size and yarn quantity. The sample featured in the pattern documentation is worked as a shawl, demonstrating the sophisticated appearance achievable with this straightforward design.

Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project is designed for crafters who want a portable, easy-to-manage pattern that doesn't require constant pattern reference. The Simple Things pattern can be picked up and put down without losing your place, making it ideal for knitters seeking a project suitable for spare moments throughout the day. The construction begins with a long-tail cast on and progresses through fundamental knitting techniques, finishing with a picot cast off that creates a refined edge detail.

The defining design feature is the picot edging on all four sides, which elevates the simple garter stitch rectangle into a sophisticated finished piece. This decorative edging technique adds visual interest and polish to what is otherwise a straightforward knit structure, creating an elegant contrast between the minimalist body and the delicate border treatment.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch (primary stitch throughout the body of the scarf or shawl)
• Long-tail cast on (foundation technique)
• Knitted-on cast on (used as part of the construction method)
• Picot cast off (decorative finishing technique for all four edges)

Materials and Specifications

The pattern calls for Freedom Spirit yarn by Twilleys of Stamford, a 100% wool fiber available in multiple colorways. For the scarf version, you will need 4 balls of yarn; the shawl version requires 6 balls. Each ball contains 120 meters (130 yards) and weighs 50 grams (1¾ ounces).

The shawl sample shown in the pattern is worked in colour 513 Verve, while a swatch demonstration is presented in colour 515 Destiny, allowing you to see how the pattern translates across different colorway options. Knitting is worked on 5mm (US 8) needles (straight needles are specified in the pattern materials list). The recommended gauge is 14 stitches over 4 inches when working garter stitch on 5mm needles, though you should adjust needle size as needed to achieve this gauge with your chosen yarn.

Skill Requirements

Classified as an intermediate project, Simple Things requires competency with several fundamental knitting techniques: the long-tail cast on method, basic knit stitches, knitted-on cast on variations, and the picot cast off finishing technique. While none of these skills are advanced, they do require prior knitting experience beyond absolute beginner level, making this pattern well-suited for knitters who have completed several basic projects and are ready to expand their technical repertoire.