By Wendy Pan
If you're new to knitting, one of the easiest and quickest items to knit is a scarf. You don't have to worry about gauge or the fit of a scarf, you just need to knit a rectangle as long as you want it, add some fringe if you like, and you're done! Luckily, there are plenty of free scarf knitting paterns all over the Internet, so you can get started knitting your first scarf right away.
Free Scarf Knitting Paterns on the Internet
You can find scarf knitting patterns online, often at yarn manufacturers websites. It makes sense that they would develop patterns to help sell their yarn, but you don't need to buy their yarns to download the patterns. In fact, most patterns tell you the weight or ply of the yarn you need to use for the pattern to come out right, so you can match yarn you already have to the pattern and get knitting right away.
Scarf Knitting Paterns at Your Local Yarn Shop
Many yarn shops give away free patterns when you purchase yarn, too, so your local yarn store is another source of scarf knitting patterns, and so is your local library. Look for scarf knitting books for different patterns, and check out your local bookstore and used bookstore, too.
Make Your Own
As you become a more experienced knitter, you'll probably want to develop your own scarf patterns, as well. Scarves are one of the easiest ways to begin designing your own knitting, because they are easy to make, and they can be as complicated or as simple as you'd like. Creating your own patterns allows you creativity and expression, but it also allows you to experiment with new and different yarns for different looks and textures in your scarves.
Since scarves are one of the cheapest to knit accessories, you can splurge on some more expensive yarns if you like, so you can try these new yarns without spending as much as you would on a shawl, sweater, or throw. If you're at a loss as to how to start designing your own patterns, look at a couple of knitting stitch dictionaries, and combine a stitch or two to create your own, one-of-a-kind design.
Embellish Your Creations
Once you've gotten the hang of scarf knitting, you can embellish your designs, too. Use beads, felting, or even a strand of silver or gold thread knit along with your regular yarn to create stunning new designs, fit for a night out on the town. As you learn how to embellish your designs, you'll create even more new looks, and you'll add to your scarf collection, as well. Scarves make great gifts, too, so don't forget to keep some on hand for last minute birthday, holiday, or "just because" gifts.
So, as you look for scarf knitting paterns, think about creating your own scarf patterns, creating scarves that are works of art as well as wearable accessories, and always be on the lookout for new ideas, patterns, stitches, and embellishments to make your scarves as unique and appealing as you are!
