Skylar Shawl Scarf

Skylar Shawl Scarf by Rastus Hsu

What is Being Made

The Skylar Shawl Scarf is a versatile wearable accessory that functions as both a shawl and scarf. Designed by Rastus Hsu, this piece measures 45 cm (17.7") in width and 200 cm (78.7") in length, making it a generous rectangular wrap suitable for layering, draping, or wearing as a traditional scarf. The design showcases a striking colour gradient effect where two contrasting colours transition seamlessly into one another, creating a visually dynamic positive and negative colour play that makes this accessory both stylish and practical for everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Skylar Shawl Scarf employs straightforward knitting techniques accessible to confident beginners. The piece is knitted lengthwise rather than widthwise, which allows for efficient yarn usage and a unique construction method. A key technique featured in this design is the carrying of the opposite colour yarn up the side edge every two rows, which creates a neat and tidy finished edge without the need for complex seaming or edge treatments. This colour-carrying method is fundamental to achieving the seamless colour transition that defines the shawl's visual appeal.

Stitches Used

The Skylar Shawl Scarf relies on fundamental knitting stitches that make it an ideal project for knitters developing their skills. The pattern utilizes:

• Knit stitch – the primary building block of the fabric
• Purl stitch – used in combination with knit stitches to create texture and visual interest through the Skylar stitch pattern
• Slip stitch – employed for seamless stitch transitions and edge finishing

The Skylar stitch itself is a simple, non-complicated stitch pattern combining these basic techniques. No lace, cables, or advanced stitch patterns are required, making this design approachable for confident beginners who have mastered fundamental knitting skills.

Materials and Tools

The Skylar Shawl Scarf is worked in fingering weight yarn, specifically 100% Classic Cashmere. The pattern requires approximately 354 g of yarn, equivalent to 1416 metres (1549 yards) of yardage. The designer's samples were knitted using two cashmere colourways: Colour A in Taupe (approximately 182 g) and Colour B in Black (approximately 172 g), creating the distinctive two-tone gradient effect.

For needles, the pattern calls for US 6/4.0mm circular needles measuring 120 cm (47") in length, used for working flat. The 120 cm length accommodates the full width of the shawl during flat knitting. A tapestry needle is required for weaving in ends and finishing. The gauge is 24 stitches and 47 rows over 10 cm (4") in Skylar stitch using US 6/4.0mm needles after blocking, which is essential information for achieving the intended finished dimensions.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a Confident Beginner project, the Skylar Shawl Scarf is designed for knitters who have already mastered basic knitting fundamentals including knit stitch, purl stitch, slip stitch, and colour changes. While the techniques are straightforward, the project requires sustained attention to maintain consistent tension and proper colour-carrying technique throughout the lengthy 200 cm length. The simplicity of the stitch pattern combined with the straightforward construction makes this an excellent project for building confidence in working with luxury fibres and managing two-colour knitting.