Doonbeg Bay hooded scarf

Doonbeg Bay Hooded Scarf by Kate Heppell

What is Being Made

The Doonbeg Bay is a multifunctional knitted accessory that combines a scarf, hat, and hoodie in one versatile garment. Inspired by the designer's visits to Doonbeg, a village in Ireland known for its windy coastal climate, this project solves the practical problem of traveling light while maintaining warmth and style. The hooded scarf design offers protection from harsh weather while eliminating the need to pack multiple separate pieces.

Design and Inspiration

Created by Kate Heppell, editor of Knit Now magazine—the UK's leading publication focused on knitting accessories and quick projects—this design reflects the designer's passion for both the meditative process of knitting and the technical challenge of garment construction. The pattern embodies the satisfaction of creating wearable pieces by hand.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level project employs cable stitch techniques to create textural interest and visual depth. Cable stitches are a fundamental decorative technique in knitting that involve crossing groups of stitches over one another to produce twisted, rope-like patterns. These techniques require careful stitch manipulation and are well-suited to knitters with foundational skills who are ready to develop their technical repertoire.

Stitches and Abbreviations

• C3B (Cable 3 Back): Slip 1 stitch onto cable needle, hold in back, knit 2 stitches from left-hand needle
• C3F (Cable 3 Front): Slip 2 stitches onto cable needle, then purl 1 stitch from left-hand needle
• CN: Cable needle—a specialized tool used to temporarily hold stitches while working cable patterns

Materials and Tools

This project requires Aran weight yarn, a medium-weight category ideal for creating garments with good drape and structure. The pattern calls for 3 balls of Wendy Traditional Aran yarn. Knitters will need 5mm (US size 8) straight needles for the main fabric and a cable needle for executing the cable stitch techniques throughout the design.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this project is appropriate for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are comfortable working with pattern instructions that include cable techniques and shaping.