Lace Swirl Scarf

Lace Swirl Scarf by Dal Riata Knits

What is Being Made

The Lace Swirl Scarf is a versatile knitted accessory designed with a decorative lace pattern that creates a scalloped texture. This scarf offers functional flexibility with two distinct styling options: it can be worn doubled around the neck for extra warmth and fullness, or wrapped once and fastened with buttons to create a flattering V-shape on the chest. This dual-length design means a single project can serve multiple purposes depending on the wearer's preference and the occasion.

Finished Dimensions

The scarf is 6 inches (15 cm) wide and available in two length options: 45 inches or 22 inches long. The gauge is measured as 1 pattern repeat equaling 2 inches (5 cm).

Materials Required

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn, 100-200 grams (3.5–7 ounces)
• Needles: 4.5 mm or US Size 7
• Notions: 3 small buttons, or alternatively a shawl pin or penannular brooch for fastening
• Optional: Row counter for tracking pattern repeats

Techniques and Stitches Used

This intermediate-level project employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its elegant finished appearance. The pattern utilizes a lace stitch pattern that creates the characteristic scalloped texture throughout the scarf. The pattern is worked over 8 rows and can be followed using either a provided lace chart or written row-by-row directions, offering flexibility for different learning preferences.

The scarf begins with a specialized 3-stitch i-cord cast on, which creates a neat, cord-like edge at the beginning of the project. This technique involves casting on 3 stitches using the long tail method, then building the cast-on edge by working an i-cord (a tubular knitted cord) while simultaneously adding stitches until the desired 37 stitches are on the needle. After the cast-on is complete, a purl row is worked before beginning the main lace pattern.

The scarf maintains a consistent stitch count of 37 stitches throughout all pattern rows. A matching i-cord bind off is used to finish the scarf, creating a complementary finished edge that mirrors the cast-on edge and provides a professional, polished appearance.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with lace patterns and specialty cast-on and bind-off techniques. The i-cord cast on and bind off techniques are explained within the pattern instructions, supporting knitters in expanding their technical skills.

Design Characteristics

The lace pattern creates a scalloped texture that is both visually interesting and functional. Despite the openwork nature of lace stitching, the scarf remains warm while maintaining a light, breathable quality—ideal for transitional seasons or layering. The worsted weight yarn provides good stitch definition for the lace pattern while offering practical warmth and durability.