Winter Doldrums Scarf

Winter Doldrums Scarf by Carmen Nuland

What is Being Made

The Winter Doldrums Scarf is a knitted rectangular scarf designed to capture the emotional landscape of mid-winter. This reversible scarf measures 46 x 6 inches before blocking and expands to approximately 60 x 7.5 inches after blocking, making it a generous accessory suitable for layering and warmth during cold months. The design celebrates the contrast between winter's dark, gloomy days and the occasional brilliantly colorful sunrises and sunsets that punctuate the season.

Techniques and Construction

This scarf employs a thoughtful construction technique that creates a fully reversible finished piece. By alternating yarn colors throughout the project, the right side and wrong sides of the scarf display different color combinations, allowing the wearer to flip the scarf and present either side as the finished face. The use of extra-large needles relative to the yarn weight creates a lacy, open appearance that adds visual interest and drape to the finished accessory.

Stitches Used

The Winter Doldrums Scarf is constructed using the Old Shale stitch pattern, a classic lace stitch known for its wave-like texture. When worked on larger needles than typically recommended for the yarn weight, this stitch creates an airy, flowing fabric with pronounced ripples that echo the temperature fluctuations of winter weather.

Materials

• Yarn: Malabrigo Yarn Mecha in bulky weight (100% Merino wool; 130 yards / 100 grams per skein). The pattern requires 1 skein each of colorway 875 Arapey and colorway 43 Plomo, totaling 2 skeins and approximately 260 yards of yarn.
• Needles: US 11 (8.0 mm) straight or circular needles, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge.
• Notions: Blocking pins and a blocking mat are recommended to achieve the final dimensions and even out the stitch pattern.

Gauge and Difficulty

The pattern specifies a gauge of 9 stitches and 16 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in the pattern stitches after blocking. This is a beginner-level project, making it accessible to knitters new to lace patterns or those seeking a straightforward, meditative knitting experience. The chunky yarn weight and larger needle size work quickly, allowing the scarf to come together relatively rapidly despite its generous finished dimensions.