Noelle - mock cable keyhole scarf

Noelle Mock Cable Keyhole Scarf - Knitting Pattern

What is Being Made

The Noelle is a keyhole neck scarf designed by Jennifer Lee. This versatile accessory features a mock cable stitch construction and measures approximately 12cm wide by 90cm long (5 inches by 35½ inches). The keyhole design allows the scarf to be worn in a distinctive way around the neck, making it both a functional and stylish accessory.

Difficulty Level and Suitability

Rated as an easy to intermediate knitting project, the Noelle is suitable for knitters with some basic experience. The pattern uses straightforward construction techniques combined with decorative stitch work, making it an excellent project for those looking to expand their skills beyond basic stockinette stitch.

Techniques and Stitches Used

The primary technique featured in this pattern is the mock cable stitch, which creates the visual appearance of twisted cables without the complexity of traditional cable knitting. This technique uses a specialized stitch called Tw2 (twist 2), which is executed by working into the back of the second stitch with the right-hand needle positioned behind the first stitch, without slipping it off the needle, then slipping the first stitch purlwise before withdrawing the left-hand needle from the second stitch.

The pattern combines the mock cable stitch with stockinette stitch (alternating knit and purl rows), which provides a smooth, classic background that allows the cable detail to stand out prominently. The construction begins with casting on 30 stitches and follows a repeating pattern sequence throughout the length of the scarf.

Materials Required

• Yarn: 2 balls of Knoll Kilcarra Tweed, 50g balls at 80 meters per ball. The yarn is worked at aran weight, which provides good drape and warmth for a neck scarf while remaining lightweight enough for comfortable wear.
• Needles: A pair of 5.00mm (UK size 6, US size 8) knitting needles for the main pattern work
• Additional tools: A wool needle for sewing in ends upon completion

Tension and Gauge

The pattern specifies a tension of 16 stitches and 23 rows to 10cm (4 inches) measured over stockinette stitch using 5.00mm needles. Achieving the correct gauge is important for obtaining the finished dimensions, though the pattern acknowledges that quantities may vary between individual knitters and different yarn types.

Pattern Structure

The Noelle pattern is presented across three pages and includes detailed abbreviations for standard knitting terminology. The pattern uses a systematic approach with alternating rows and repeating pattern sequences to create the mock cable effect throughout the scarf length. The straightforward stitch abbreviations and clear instructions make this pattern accessible while the mock cable technique adds visual interest and texture to the finished piece.