Ruby Scarf

Ruby Scarf by Cheryl Andrews

What is Being Made

The Ruby Scarf is a triangular lacy neck scarf designed by Cheryl Andrews under the Wooly Bear Hand Knits label. This elegant neckwear piece is inspired by the Ruby Throated Hummingbird and features a distinctive V-shaped design that drapes beautifully around the neck to frame the face. The scarf begins with a flat bottom edge and incorporates a pointed V-shape that is added during finishing. The finished dimensions in worsted weight measure approximately 46 inches along the longest edge of the triangle, with a center height of 18 inches from the tip to the longest edge.

Techniques Used

This advanced knitting project employs several sophisticated techniques to achieve its elegant lacy appearance. The construction method begins with casting on stitches and working the main body of the scarf in a flat pattern before returning to add the V-shaped point at the end. The design incorporates lace stitch work throughout, which creates the delicate, openwork appearance characteristic of the finished piece. Blocking after completion is essential to set the gauge and enhance the scarf's drape and final dimensions. The pattern requires careful attention to stitch counts and row counts to maintain proper shaping and ensure the triangular silhouette develops correctly.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The Ruby Scarf is worked using a pattern stitch that creates the lacy effect throughout the piece. The gauge after blocking is 14 stitches and 20 rows per 4 inches when working in the pattern stitch with worsted weight yarn. The scarf begins with a cast-on of 7 stitches, which serves as the foundation for the flat bottom edge. The designer notes that exact gauge adherence is not critically important for this project, as knitters can stop knitting when the scarf reaches their desired finished size, offering flexibility in the final dimensions.

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Ruby Scarf is designed for worsted weight yarn, though sport weight yarn may also be used. The project requires 220 to 250 yards of yarn total. The sample shown was knitted in Cascade Venezia Worsted, a premium blend of 70% Merino wool and 30% silk, which provides both warmth and lustrous drape. Alternative yarn options suitable for this pattern include Malabrigo, Berocco Lustra, and Butterfly cotton, offering knitters choices in fiber content and characteristics. Size 10 circular needles measuring 24 inches or longer are required to accommodate the growing width of the triangular scarf during construction.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced, reflecting the lace stitch work, shaping techniques, and finishing methods required to complete the project successfully. Knitters should have solid experience with lace knitting, pattern reading, and blocking before undertaking this design.