Steeple Scarf

Steeple Scarf by Phyllis Gualtieri

Project Overview

The Steeple Scarf is an intermediate-level knitted accessory designed by Phyllis Gualtieri. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a finished scarf measuring 5-1/2 inches wide by 48 inches long, making it an ideal length for versatile styling. The project showcases advanced colorwork and stitch manipulation techniques suitable for knitters with prior experience.

Craft and Technique

This pattern employs double knitting, a sophisticated technique that creates a reversible, double-layered fabric using two colors worked simultaneously. Double knitting produces a dense, structured textile with color on both sides, eliminating the need for a separate backing. The technique requires working two stitches per row—one in each color—while managing yarn positioning carefully to maintain proper tension and fabric integrity.

The Steeple Scarf utilizes a two-color alternating cast on to establish the foundation for double knitting, with 35 stitches in Color A and 35 stitches in Color B for a total of 70 cast-on stitches. This specialized cast-on method ensures both colors are properly distributed from the beginning.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

• Knit stitch (k) – The fundamental stitch used throughout the pattern
• Purl stitch (p) – Worked in alternation with knit stitches to create the double knitting structure
• Slip stitch (sl 1) – Stitches are slipped purlwise to maintain consistent stitch definition and create clean color transitions
• Yarn forward (yf) – Yarn is positioned between needles to the forward position, preparing for the next stitch
• Yarn back (yb) – Yarn is positioned between needles to the back position
• Wrap technique – Yarn is wrapped twice around the needle on specific stitches (the 5th, 10th, 12th, 17th, 19th, 24th, 26th, and 31st knit stitches) to create textural interest and the distinctive "steeple" effect

Materials Required

The pattern calls for 500 yards total of DK weight yarn, divided equally between two colors: 250 yards of Color A and 250 yards of Color B. The designer specifies I Love This Yarn! Sport Weight Solids as the recommended yarn, though any DK (double knitting) weight yarn of comparable fiber content and yardage may be substituted.

Additional materials include a Size 6 circular needle suitable for working the required 24-stitch and 28-row gauge of 4 inches in double knitting. A cable needle or stitch holder is also listed in the materials, useful for managing stitches during the wrap sequences that create the scarf's distinctive texture.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches when worked in double knitting. Achieving this gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions of 5-1/2 inches by 48 inches. Knitters should swatch before beginning the project to ensure their tension matches the pattern requirements.