Penelope Scarf

Penelope Scarf by Dora Ohrenstein

What Is Being Made

The Penelope Scarf is a delicate, elongated crocheted accessory designed as a feminine fashion piece. This very skinny and very long scarf measures 5 inches wide by 90 inches in finished length, making it ideal for wrapping luxuriously around the neck. The design uses lace-weight yarn to create an exceptionally light and airy fabric that drapes beautifully without adding bulk to your outfit.

Craft and Construction Method

This project is created using the crochet technique, classified as an intermediatelevel design. The pattern features a simple two-row repeat that is easy to memorize once established, allowing crafters to work the scarf to any desired length. The lace construction creates an open, breathable fabric perfect for layering or adding a delicate accent to any ensemble.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Penelope Scarf employs several fundamental crochet stitches and techniques:

• Single Crochet (Sc): Used to create structure and definition at key points in the pattern
• Chain Stitches (Ch): Forms the foundation and creates open spaces throughout the lace design
• Bobble Stitch: A decorative textured element created by working multiple yarn overs and loops through a single stitch, then drawing the final yarn over through all loops on the hook simultaneously. This stitch adds visual interest and dimension to the lace pattern

The pattern uses a setup row followed by a repeating two-row sequence, making it accessible for intermediate crocheters who are comfortable with basic stitches and stitch variations.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: Lorna's Laces Helen's Lace, a premium blend of 50% Tussah silk and 50% merino wool. This yarn is available in 1250-yard skeins weighing 4 ounces, classified as lace weight. The pattern calls for 1 skein, though the model used approximately 70% of the skein to complete the scarf. The yarn shown is in the special color Toxic Waste, available at The Yarn Company in New York City.

Hook: Steel crochet hook, size 2 mm, which is appropriately sized for working with delicate lace-weight yarn.

Gauge: The first 4 rows in pattern measure 5 inches wide by 1½ inches in height, providing a reference for achieving proper drape and fabric density.

Designer and Source

This pattern is from Patterns for the Discerning Crocheter by designer Dora Ohrenstein, available through Crochet Insider.