Blossom Lace Scarf

Blossom Lace Scarf by Judy Furlong

What Is Being Made

The Blossom Lace Scarf is a delicate, adjustable-length lace scarf designed by Judy Furlong and first published in The Knitter, Issue 34 (July 2011). This knitted accessory features an elegant lace construction with a finished width of 25cm and an adjustable length of approximately 145cm. The scarf's modular design allows knitters to customize the final length based on available yarn quantity, making it a versatile project for various skill levels and yarn stash sizes.

Construction and Design Method

The Blossom Lace Scarf employs a three-section construction technique that provides flexibility in the finished length. The pattern is worked in stages: knitters first work a border section, then place stitches on a stitch holder for later grafting. A second border is subsequently knitted, followed by an extended centre section that can be worked to the desired length or until yarn is exhausted. This modular approach means each centimeter of length requires approximately 0.45g of yarn, allowing knitters to calculate their exact yardage needs and adjust accordingly. The scarf is then dressed (blocked) to achieve final measurements and optimal drape.

Knitting Stitches and Techniques

This intermediate-level knitting project features lace stitch work, specifically including the Lotus stitch pattern. Lace knitting requires careful attention to yarn-overs, decreases, and stitch placement to create the characteristic openwork patterns that define the scarf's delicate aesthetic. The pattern utilizes grafting techniques to join the held stitches from the first border to the completed second border, creating a seamless transition. Knitters working this project should be comfortable with reading lace charts, managing yarn-overs and corresponding decreases, and executing grafting (also called Kitchener stitch) to join sections invisibly.

Yarn and Materials

The Blossom Lace Scarf is designed to be worked with Manos del Uruguay Lace Weight yarn in the shade Nixie 9622. The pattern calls for 2 skeins of 50g each (100g total). This luxury yarn blend comprises 70% alpaca, 20% silk, and 5% cashmere, providing a soft, lustrous fabric with excellent drape—ideal qualities for a lace scarf. The yarn's lace weight classification ensures the delicate openwork stitches display beautifully without excessive bulk.

Needles and Equipment

• 1 pair of 3mm (UK size 11, US size 2-3) knitting needles
• Waste yarn or stitch holder for holding stitches during construction

Tension and Gauge

Achieving correct tension is essential for this lace project. The pattern specifies approximately 27 stitches and 37 rows to 10cm when working the Lotus stitch pattern over 3mm needles. Knitters should swatch before beginning the scarf to ensure their personal gauge matches these specifications, as variations will affect the final width and drape of the finished scarf.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate knitting project, the Blossom Lace Scarf is described as fairly easy and quick to knit despite its lace construction. This makes it an excellent choice for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to explore lace stitch patterns and grafting methods. The adjustable length design also means knitters can work at their own pace without pressure to complete a fixed yardage.