Candystore

Candystore Knitted Scarf by Brian Smith Designs

Project Overview

The Candystore is an intermediate-level knitted scarf pattern designed by Brian Smith Designs. This downloadable PDF provides complete instructions for creating an elegant, generously-sized scarf using sport-weight yarn and fundamental knitting techniques. The finished scarf measures 226 centimeters in length and 34 centimeters in width, making it a substantial accessory suitable for layering and styling versatility.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Schoppel edition 3 yarn in the English garden6 balls of yarn, with each ball weighing 50 grams and providing 150 meters of yardage, for a total of 900 meters. The yarn weight is sport, a lightweight option that creates fabric with excellent drape and fluidity ideal for scarf construction.

Essential tools include UK 4mm (US size 6) straight needles and a 120-centimeter circular needle of the same gauge. Additional notions required are a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, a blocking kit for finishing, and stitch holders or waste yarn for managing stitches during construction.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 32 rows over 10 centimeters when measured in blocked stockinette stitch. Achieving accurate gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements. After blocking, the completed scarf will measure 226 centimeters long and 34 centimeters wide, providing substantial length and width for comfortable wear.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Candystore pattern employs intermediate-level knitting techniques appropriate for crafters with foundational skills. The pattern utilizes stockinette stitch as the primary fabric structure, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side.

Advanced stitch techniques incorporated throughout the pattern include:

• Yarn forward (yf) and with yarn forward (wyf) for creating decorative eyelet details and texture
• Slip stitches (sl1, sl3) worked purlwise to create clean edges and shaping lines
• Increases using kfb (knit into front and back) and M1 (make one) methods to add stitches strategically
• Decreases including skp (slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over), k2tog (knit two together), k2tbl (knit two together through back loops), k3tog (knit three together), and s2kp (slip two together, knit one, pass slipped stitches over) for shaping and texture

These techniques combine to create visual interest and structural shaping within the scarf design. The pattern begins with a provisional cast-on of 18 stitches using either a provisional method or cable cast-on, allowing for flexible finishing options.

Construction and Finishing

The pattern is organized into sections, with the first section worked on straight needles using the initial 18-stitch cast-on. The use of both straight and circular needles accommodates different working preferences and stitch counts as the pattern progresses. Blocking is an essential finishing step, as indicated by the gauge specification "blocked stockinette stitch," ensuring the scarf achieves its intended dimensions and drape.

This intermediate knitting project combines accessible construction methods with refined techniques to create a sophisticated, wearable accessory suitable for gift-giving or personal collection.