Corde Lisse Scarf

Corde Lisse Scarf by Kelly Menzies

What is Being Made

The Corde Lisse Scarf is a knitted accessory designed by Kelly Menzies, measuring approximately 145 centimeters (57 inches) in length and 22 centimeters (8.5 inches) in width. This is a beginner-friendly knitting project suitable for those new to the craft, offering an accessible introduction to textured stitch patterns while creating a practical, wearable garment.

Techniques and Construction

This scarf employs fundamental knitting techniques that build foundational skills. The project begins with a simple garter stitch edge—created by knitting every row—which provides a neat, stable border. The main body features a repeating pattern stitch that combines knit and purl stitches in a structured sequence, creating visual texture and interest throughout the length of the scarf. The pattern is provided in both written row-by-row format and charted format, allowing knitters to choose their preferred method of following instructions. The scarf is worked lengthwise on straight needles, with a straightforward cast-on and consistent stitch count maintained throughout.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: Formed by knitting every row, creating a bumpy, reversible fabric used for the border rows at the beginning
• Knit Stitch: The fundamental stitch that forms the base of the pattern
• Purl Stitch: The reverse of the knit stitch, used strategically throughout the pattern repeat to create texture and visual definition
• Pattern Stitch: A multi-row repeating sequence combining knits and purls in a specific arrangement to produce the characteristic Corde Lisse texture

Materials Required

This project requires DK weight yarn totaling approximately 670 meters (657 yards). The pattern is shown worked in West Yorkshire Spinners Bluefaced Leicester in shade 315 (Olive), requiring six 50-gram balls of yarn. Knitters will need 5mm (US 8) straight knitting needles to achieve the correct gauge. Additional materials include a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and a row counter to track progress through the pattern repeats.

Gauge and Specifications

The pattern stitch gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over a 10 by 10 centimeter (4 by 4 inch) swatch, worked on 5mm (US 8) needles. The scarf begins with a cast-on of 50 stitches, which is maintained throughout the project. Achieving proper gauge is important for obtaining the finished dimensions specified in the pattern.

Pattern Format and Publication

This downloadable PDF pattern was originally published in October 2016 and includes both written instructions and charted format for the pattern rows, accommodating different knitting preferences. The pattern features original photography and artwork, with design and modeling by Kelly Menzies and artwork by Caroline Bond.