Kimmeridge Shoulder Scarf

Kimmeridge Shoulder Scarf by Linda Moorhouse

What Is Being Made

The Kimmeridge Shoulder Scarf is a versatile knitted accessory designed as a shoulder wrap measuring approximately 40 inches by 18 inches. This beginner-friendly shawl project creates a triangular or wedge-shaped shoulder scarf through a simple increase-and-decrease construction method, making it an ideal first shawl project for knitters new to shawlette patterns.

Craft and Technique Overview

This is a knitting project that uses fundamental knitting techniques accessible to beginners. The scarf employs a classic shaping method: starting with a small number of cast-on stitches, the piece expands through strategic increases during the first half of knitting, then contracts symmetrically through decreases in the second half. This approach creates a balanced, wearable shoulder piece without requiring complex stitch patterns or advanced shaping techniques.

Stitches and Construction Methods

The Kimmeridge Shoulder Scarf uses straightforward stitches and techniques:

• Garter stitch forms the foundation of this design, created by knitting every row for a textured, reversible fabric
• Slip stitch (slip 1) is used at the beginning of rows to create neat, finished edges
• Knit front and back (KFB) increases are used to add stitches during the expansion phase, creating gradual shaping
• Knit two together (K2tog) decreases are used symmetrically during the second half to reduce stitches back to the original cast-on number
• The pattern is written in full with instructions spelled out rather than using abbreviations, making it accessible to beginners

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This project requires 100 grams of double knitting (DK) weight yarn. The pattern specifically recommends Australian wool Handarbeit double knitting yarn or any variegated double knitting yarn in this weight class. Variegated yarns are particularly effective for this design, as the color variations add visual interest to the simple garter stitch structure. The total yardage needed depends on the specific yarn chosen, but 100g of DK weight typically provides 300–350 yards.

Needles and Gauge

This pattern uses metric 4mm needles throughout the project. The recommended tension is 22 stitches by 30 rows over a 4-inch square (10 centimeters) when working stocking stitch with 4mm needles. Achieving proper gauge ensures the finished scarf reaches the intended dimensions of 40 inches by 18 inches and drapes appropriately as a shoulder wrap.

Pattern Structure and Sizing

The Kimmeridge Shoulder Scarf begins with casting on just 4 stitches, then knitting 4 rows in garter stitch to establish a stable edge. The pattern then enters the expansion phase, where increases are worked strategically every other row until approximately half the yarn (50 grams) has been consumed. At the midpoint, the piece transitions to the decrease phase, mirroring the increase rows until only 4 stitches remain. The scarf concludes with 4 final garter stitch rows before casting off. This symmetrical construction creates a balanced, triangular silhouette ideal for draping across the shoulders.

Finishing and Care

Finishing the Kimmeridge Shoulder Scarf is minimal and straightforward. After casting off, simply darn in any loose yarn ends and press the finished piece lightly. Light pressing helps even out the garter stitch texture and ensures the scarf lies flat and maintains its shape.