Chunky Cable Bordeaux Scarf / Echarpe Torsade

Chunky Cable Bordeaux Scarf

What is Being Made

The Chunky Cable Bordeaux Scarf is an intermediate-level knitted accessory featuring bold cable stitch patterns. This design by Lilith Creation produces a finished scarf measuring approximately 152 cm (60 inches) in length and 38 cm (15 inches) in width after wet blocking, making it a substantial and luxurious neck piece suitable for cold weather wear.

Techniques Used

This project employs several key knitting techniques to create its distinctive textured appearance. Cable knitting is the primary technique, requiring the use of a cable needle to cross groups of stitches over one another, creating the characteristic twisted rope-like patterns that define the scarf's visual appeal. The pattern incorporates wet blocking as a finishing technique to set the final dimensions and even out the stitches. The scarf is worked by holding multiple yarn strands together simultaneously—specifically two strands of the main yarn combined with one strand of a contrasting fiber—which creates depth and visual interest while building the necessary fabric weight and drape for this chunky design.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches combined in strategic ways:

• Knit (K) — the basic stitch forming the foundation of stockinette sections
• Purl (P) — used to create textural contrast and definition within the cable pattern
• Yarn Over (YO) — creates deliberate openings and lacy elements within the design
• Knit Two Together (K2tog) — a right-leaning decrease used to shape the fabric
• Slip Slip Knit (SSK) — a left-leaning decrease providing balanced shaping
• Cable Crosses — created by slipping stitches onto a cable needle, knitting subsequent stitches, then working the held stitches, producing the signature twisted cable effect

The pattern is presented using both written abbreviations and a charted diagram format, allowing knitters to follow either method based on personal preference.

Materials and Gauge

This project requires careful yarn selection to achieve the intended chunky aesthetic. The primary yarn is Drops Eskimo in Bordeaux (color no. 10) from Garnstudio, a 100% wool yarn in 14 ply / super bulky weight. Nine skeins are needed, with each skein weighing 1.8 oz (50 g) and providing approximately 55 yards (50 meters) of yardage. Complementing this is Drops Brushed Alpaca Silk in Purple (color no. 9), also from Garnstudio, comprising 77% alpaca and 23% silk in a 10 ply / aran worsted weight. Two skeins of this yarn are required, each weighing 0.9 oz (25 g) with approximately 153 yards (140 meters) of yardage per skein.

The pattern is worked on US 19 / 15 mm needles using the multi-strand technique: two strands of Drops Eskimo held together with one strand of Drops Brushed Alpaca Silk, all worked simultaneously. A cable needle is essential for executing the cable stitch crossings. The gauge is established at 6 stitches by 10 rows over a 4 inch by 4 inch (10 cm by 10 cm) swatch worked in stockinette stitch, providing a reference point for tension and finished dimensions.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this scarf is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to tackle cable work. The multi-strand yarn handling and cable needle techniques require focus and practice, but the straightforward rectangular construction makes it an accessible project for developing these skills.