Easy Mistake Stitch Scarf
This Easy Mistake Stitch scarf is made with Jade Sapphire’s gorgeous 12-ply Cashmere in color “Green Tea”. If you know how to knit and purl you can make this scarf! Mistake Stitch creates a deep and lofty rib that looks like so much more work than it actually is.
Yarn lovers, if you adore the yarn used in this project, you’ll love exploring all of our other yarn collections! Discover over 45 thoughtfully designed yarns in nearly every natural fiber and in every spectacular color you can imagine. Only available here at Purl Soho’s online yarn store, where every skein is created with care and your creativity in mind!
If you’re interested in the Lovely Leaf Lace Scarf (the orange one on the right), you can find the full, free pattern right here!
Designed by Purl Soho founder and co-owner, Joelle Hoverson.
Share your progress and connect with the community by tagging your pics with #PurlSoho, #PurlSohoBusyHands, and #PurlSohoEasyMistakeStitchScarf. We can’t wait to see what you make!
Materials
- 5 skeins of Jade Sapphire’s 12-Ply Cashmere, 100% Mongolian cashmere yarn. Each skein of this chunky/ bulky-weight is approximately 70 yards/ 100 grams; approximately 300 total yards required. We used Green Tea.
- US 11 (8 mm), straight or circular needles
Shop our wonderful collection of chunky/bulky-weight yarn to find a suitable substitute for this project, and remember that it’s always a good idea to check your gauge before you cast on… Our All About Gauge Tutorial shows you how!
GAUGE
18 stitches = 4 inches in stitch pattern, slightly stretched
SIZE
Finished Dimensions: Approximately 8 inches wide x 48 inches long
NOTE
STITCH MULTIPLE
This pattern is worked over a multiple of 4 + 3 stitches.
PATTERN
Cast on 39 stitches. We used a basic Long Tail Cast On.
Row 1: *K2, p2, repeat from * to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Repeat Row 1 until piece measures approximately 48 inches from cast-on edge. That’s it!
Bind off in stitch pattern.
Weave in all ends and gently wet block.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore all of our free knitting patterns and knitting tutorials, buy one of our many knitting kits and yarn bundles, and shop for beautiful yarn. We have over 35 gorgeous natural fiber yarns in 100’s of magnificent colors, designed to bring integrity, beauty, and joy to your next knitting project and only available at Purl Soho!
Perfect timing – thank you! I just came to the site to try to find out about blocking/dimensions for almost exactly the same style of scarf, that I’m knitting for a much-loved friend in Plassard Meri-Cach8.
I’m going for something less chunky so I’ve cast on 36 stitches on European size 4.5 needles (size 7 US I think) and I’m knitting 4, purling 4.
My question: will blocking flatten the rib out? At the moment, the rib is looking more like ruffles and it’s making the scarf a lot narrower than I’d intended. I’m wondering if I need to cut my losses, rip and start again…
Any help/tips much appreciated!
Hi El Jinx,
Rib pulls in no matter what you do to it. So, you should probably measure it pulled in to find the gauge and then decide how many to cast on to achieve your desired width based on that. For instance, if your scarf so far is 6 stitches per inch in the rib pattern and you want your scarf to be 8 inches wide, you would cast on 48. For your rib pattern make sure the cast on is a multiple of 4 stitches.
Thank you so much for both these lovely patterns!
Thank you!
Thanks for the pretty scarf. I just casted it on this afternoon. I made mine a bit skinnier though to save time. 🙂
Thanks for this! I think this is my new favorite stitch for a scarf. At first I was skeptical of that extra purl at the end, and the first few rows don’t look like much, but it is so beautifully textural once it starts to come together.
THANK YOU, PERFECT TIMING!! This is just what I was looking for!
Can someone more experienced tell me roughly how much of this yarn (below) I would need, and how many stitches to cast on, in order to make the scarf at the same size or maybe 10% smaller? My gauge is normal to slightly tight…
Lobster Pot worsted hand dyed cashmere; CONTENT: 100% cashmere, WEIGHT: 50 grams, LENGTH: 100 yards, GAUGE: 4.5 stitches per inch,SUGGESTED NEEDLES: US size 8
THANKS in advance for the help. Sure wish I (still) lived in NYC – happy knitting and happy holidays to all!
Hi BleAholic,
I would recommend knitting with a US size 9 needle, use 3 or 4 skeins and cast on the same amount of stitches. If it comes up too narrow you could go up to 43 stitches.
Good luck!
Joelle
Thank you so much, Joelle!!
I am going to love making this scarf – gorgeous, classic – and in Black Cashmere, Lobster Pot… 🙂 Cheers!
Just popping back to say that (after much hemming and hawing and starting and ripping and starting again…!) I ended up going with the mistake stitch. And I love it. 🙂 It really does look rather dismal for the first few rows but then, as Alexis said, it suddenly comes together and it’s just great. Very yarn hungry, but great. Thanks again for the inspiration and the education.
Hi!
I bought some Jade Sapphire 6-ply cashmere that you had on sale, and I was wondering if this would work doubled on the Easy Mistake Stitch Scarf.
Thanks,
Gwen
Hi Gwen
Yes! It will be perfect.
what do you mean by “sew in ends”? Thanks!
What hat pattern would you recommend to accompany this scarf? Thank you, Molly
Could someone tell me how many stitches to cast on using Rowans tapestry, and what size needles. I am new to knitting,and afraid to to start without advice from a experienced knitteer
This is interesting. I just knitted a scarf that called for an odd number CO when the pattern of the pattern was even-numbered (K2,P2 – a block of 4 stitches). I thought it made more sense to make the CO an even number so the pattern ended on the same note with which it began. This pattern, too, calls for that one lonesome purl at the end. Why?
I think I'm a little scared that I found your site! Way too many awesome projects and inspiration. Sure wish I could retire!
Thanks,
d
hi, what do you mean by
K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Repeat this row. That's it!
if i understood the 1st line correctly it means to k2,p2,k2,p2…etc until when i'm gonna end then i do k2, p1 right?
but i didn't get the part where us aid repeat this row. kindly explain thanks =)
scarletamber:
You cast on an uneven number of stitches, so you're starting with a knit and ending with a purl … for EVERY row of the scarf. You just repeat k2,p2,k2,p2 … p1 for the entire scarf.
Hope this helps,
d
Dear Scarletamber,
“Repeat this row” means that for every row of the scarf you will do exactly the same thing. You will k2, p2, k2, p2, etc. until 3 stitches remain which you will k2, p1. I hope this make more sense for you now. Please let us know if it doesn't!
Thanks for your question!
purlbee
Hello,
I want to knit this for my dad for Christmas, but i need a cheaper wool version, would blue sky alpaca be an alternative or would you suggest an alternative for me? and would this get the right guage if I use 10mm needles?
Thank you
Hi Alex-
I think the Blue Sky Worsted would be a great alternative. It's available here:
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/711-Blue-Sky-Worsted
But you would have to use a smaller needle, a 9 (5.5mm) or a 10 (6 mm ) and cast on 8 more stitches.
Or you could use any of the chunky weight yarns available here:
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/3-knitting-crochet-yarn?filters%5B%5D=7
and use the needle that the pattern calls for, a US 11 (8mm).
A 10mm needle would probably be too big for either of these options,
Please let us know if you need any more help.
Thanks for your question, and good luck with the project!
Hello again thanks!
Think i will go for the blue sky worsted in midnight blue.
however, it states that using 9 mm gives 4 stitches per inch and the pattern states that the scarf is 8 inches wide, so does that not mean I should cast on 32 stitches to get the right gauge? sorry I'm just learning!!
Hugs
Alex 🙂
Hi Alex-
The gauge that they give you on any given yarn is usually for stockinnette stitch (knit one row, purl one row) and this scarf pattern is in mistake rib so you will get a different number of stitches per inch.
With a pattern like this you don't need to get too caught up in getting the exact gauge since it's a scarf and not a a sweater or something that has to fit in a precise way. So don't worry too much about making it exactly 8-inches wide. As long as it's in the ball park it will be beautiful!
Thanks for your question!
iam confused soory k2 p2 k2 p2 last 3 k2p1 does row two start with a p1 k2,p2, ect. ????
Hi Annamarie-
You just repeat that row for every row in the exact same way. So every row will be made in the same manner: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Hi…I love how this is looking! However I must have gotten to thick of a yarn because it's coming out about 10 inches wide. If I want it to be more like 8 inches, how many stitches should I cast on? Will this pattern work no matter how wide as long as it has an odd number of stitches?
Thanks so much!
Hi Sam-
Thanks for your question. This pattern works with a multiple of 4 plus 3 stitches, not just an odd number. With that in mind I would cast on 31 stitches to make it 8-inches since it sounds like you're getting about 4 stitches per inch.
Thanks!- Molly
Wonderful finished product. I used a bulky wgt. varigated blue/green and used a second strand of lightwght wgt. white yarn. Worked up easily and looks great. Made it as a gift and couldn't have been happier. Used #11 needles but don't be afraid to experiment a little.
Was very happy with results.
Dear Purl Bee, I'm going to make this scarf as a gift, and would like to try it with Rowan Lima and #9 needles. Do you think this would work? I'd like it to be between 8 and 9 inches wide. Could you also kindly advise me as to how many stitches to cast on?
Thank you very much in advance.
Hi Deborah-
You can adjust this pattern to any size and any yarn that you'd like. In order to figure how many stitches you should cast on you'll need to do a gauge swatch in pattern. Once you figure out how many stitches you're getting per inch in the pattern the math is simple: Multiply your stitches per inch by the width you'd like (8-inches for example), round up or down to the nearest multiple of 4, and then add 3. If you need help with this step once you figure out your gauge please let us know.
Thank you for your question.
Molly
Dear Molly: Thank you so much for your quick response!
Best, Deborah
Like others, I was looking for easy pattern. Right now, I followed your pattern of 39 stiches on multicolour(fall leaves color) yarn and it is coming along very well. I think I will go upto 5 feet, instead of 4 feet stated in the article as I like little longer skarf. Thanks !!!
I love this pattern! I cast on with 33 sts and ended with P2 K1 at the end, but the pattern works just the same. I love the way its turning out. It's so simple yet it looks so elegant. Thanks for posting!
I just love this pattern ! I made it for a christmas gift among others but I got more kodos from this one . Starting another for VD.
I started this project for my mom using a size 11, Bamboo circular needles and Lion Brand Yarn, Jiffy and followed the pattern as directed and for me, it was too wide which when completed would have made it too bulky for my mom. I ripped out and restarted casting on 19 stitches, which “appears” better, but since I'm new to knitting, perhaps I should just order the yarn you recommended instead? Please advise. Thank you!
Hi
How many grams did you use for the sample scarf? The cashmere yarn website you link to doesn't sell in “skeins” but in 55 gram amounts. Are you saying you used 5 times that 55 grams? $250 for this scarf?
Hi Riv-
We do sell it by the skein, and each skein is 55 grams. We realize it is a very expensive project, and we are always happy to offer less expensive alternatives. Please see the response from October 2011 to “Alex” for links to some more economical yarns that would work great!
Thank you!
Molly
English sizes please for this scarf needle size and wool is it chunky type or Aran type Many thanks Jan
Hi Jan-
It is a chunky weight. The needles are a US 11 which translates to a metric 8mm.
Thanks for your questions!
Molly
Thank you for this post! I knitted this pattern and made my first scarf. It looks gorgeous 🙂
another words the 2nd row goes on top of the end sts of the first row??
Hi Cathy,
I am so sorry, I don't fully understand your question. Could you clarify so I can get you an answer! Thanks. -Laura
Hello! I made this scarf for my hubby last Christmas…he got so many compliments! I'm making it for my brother and 2 nephews this year…it's simple but very elegant and finished looking. Thanks for the pattern!
Hi! I love this scarf, I've already made it once! I want to make another and was wondering if you think it would look good in one of the multi color yarns? Thanks! Love this site!
Hi Jeannnie,
I used fall pattern multi-color yarn to make my scarf. It made a beautiful pattern !
hi,
is it possible to work this in rounds? i just can't figure it out at the moment … im kinda stuck 🙁
Hi Sleepyhead-
I'm not sure I understand your question since this scarf isn't knit in the round. Can you let us know what exactly you're having a problem with so we can try to help?
Thanks for writing in!
Molly
hi,
oh sry of course! i want to use this pattern for a cowl or leg warmers.
thank you for the quick reply.
can this pattern be used as a brim for a matching hat?
Hi Kait-
It certainly could but you would have to convert it to be in the round unless you were planning on knitting the hat flat.
If you need any more help please let us know. Thanks for writing in-
Molly
Thanks so much for this pattern! I am a new knitter and i used this to make a manly scarf for my mr! Adore this site!
Hi, I would like to use this pattern for a baby blanket. Will that work? Can you give me an idea of what size needles and how many to cast on. Thank you for your great web site!
Hi Sandi-
This would work great as a baby blanket! To make a roughly 28-inch wide blanket I would cast on 131 stitches to a 32-inch circular needle in a size 11. Before you get started make sure you're getting the proper gauge, 4.5-stitches per inch, by doing a gauge swatch.
If you'd like to make it wider or narrower just keep in mind that you need to cast on a multiple of 4 plus 3.
Whitney's Forever Baby Blanket has a similar look if you'd like to follow a pattern without having to fiddle with anything: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/the-purl-bee/2011/1/26/whits-knits-forever-baby-blanket.html
Thank you and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
hi
I have bought some zara plus wool and plan on using this pattern but I'm unsure what size needles to use. Its been a long time since i did any knitting.
Thanks
Hi Ann-
We're not familiar with this yarn but usually it will give a suggested needle size on the label. Just give the suggested needles a try and see if you like the way it looks. If it's too tight move up a needle size, if it's too loose, move down a size.
Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Hi,
I'm new to knitting and would like to try this project. But I'm wondering, after finishing the first row (K2, P2 repeat until last three stitches, K2, P1), and moving to the 2nd row, which if I'm not mistaken will then start from the 'bottom' of the project since it's now 'inverted', should I then start with P2, K2, repeat until last three stitches, P2 K1, or should i just repeat the first row?
I hope you reply this comment. I'm really really keen on completing this project. Thank you! 🙂
Hi Nik-
This pattern is complete and correct. You just repeat the same row (K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1) for every row. Once you get a few rows in you'll see the pattern emerge. Thank you so much for your question!
Molly
Finally figured the Mistake St. rib. It’s isn’t nearly as complicated as it sounds. Thanks for everything!
Hi! I'm a fairly new knitter, I learned about two weeks ago and this was my very first project. I absolutely love it and am honestly pretty proud of myself, I didn't think I would actually get the hang of it… and now I'm hooked. 🙂
This site was so helpful! Thank you for this simple cute pattern and for my new hobby!
Hiya,
I'm a newbie to knitting and I really want to try a make this scarf – it looks really pretty. Could you explain to me what you mean when you say 'its a multiple of 4+3'?
Thanks
Hi Gloria-
The multiple of 4 + 3 equation lets you know how many stitches you can cast on in case you want to make the scarf wider or thinner. It's saying that the stitch pattern will work if you cast on a multiple of 4 stitches (like 40 just as an example) PLUS 3 (which would be 43 in my example.)
But if you're a new knitter you should probably just follow the pattern and cast on 39 stitches!
Thanks for writing in and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
What is your policy in regards to printing and handing out patterns? I teach a knitting class (for free) at the library I work at to 7-12 year-olds. I have a couple who are ready for pattern reading and I think this would be a great first project. Can I print the picture and instructions out for her (and/or the rest of the group?)
Thanks,
Jessica
Hi Jessica-
Yes that's fine, as long as our website is clearly on the print and it is not for sale.
Thank you for getting in touch!
Molly
hello, i knitted this scarf, then wanted to extend it. unfortunately i have unpicked the cast ON instead of the cast off edge. is there anything I can do to save this scarf (besides undoing the whole thing)??
Hi Olivia-
Use the live stitches to cast off again, in stitch pattern and it should be OK!
Thanks for getting in touch and good luck with it!
Molly
THANK YOU again for such a cute pattern for free. Working, still, lol, on the 11th Hour Blanket from last summer – to be fair, I've been occasionally working on it 😉
Last year I made this very scarf for my nephew who is 6 feet 4 inches. He always complained that he could never find a scarf long enough. I made a 12 foot scarf in black and a 12 foot scarf in hunter green. I used 4 ply worsted and #11 needles. He loves the scarves and I love him.
Could this scarf pattern be done on a round or long knitting loom? Because of hand surgery I can't use the needles very well any more. If not do you have any patterns for looms?
Thank You
Hi, I love this pattern. How many stitches should I cast on if I wanted to make it appropriately sized for a toddler? Thanks!
Hi Lynn-
You need to cast on a multiple of 4 + 3 so perhaps you might want to try casting on 23 stitches for a 4 1/2-inch wide scarf.
Thank you!
Molly
Hi,
Great stitch! I was winding if there was any special way to cast off.
Hi TSmith-
You will want to cast off in pattern.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Hello Mary!
I have forwarded your question to our customer service team that will be able to check on your order. We’re sorry for the delay! Never hesitate in the future to write directly to [email protected] if you need anything else. Thanks for shopping with us!
Hello,
Thanks for sharing. I recently bought DEBORAH NOVILLE'S CHUNKY YARN VARIEGATED IN CHOCOLATE COLOR. IT recommends using Size 9-11 needles, 3-3.75 Stitches per inch.
I am making this scarf for a man and was wondering how many stitches I should cast on and what size needles I should use.
Thank you very much.
Hi Rita-
We aren't familiar with that yarn but it sounds like a similar gauge to the one we used so you might just be able to follow the pattern as written with size 11 needles. To be extra sure we would recommend that you do a gauge swatch in pattern to figure out how many stitches you are getting per inch and figure out your cast number on from there. Just make sure that you cast on a number that is a multiple of 4 + 3.
Thanks for writing in!
Molly
Hi i never knit before ever in my life and i just started watching how to knit videos on youtube learning how to cast on and knit and purl etc..
I was wondering what do you mean by
Mistake rib is a multiple of 4+3
and is K2P2 mean knit knit purl purl?
or is there two different type of knit?
and when you say 'K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.'
K2 p2 K2 p2 K2 p2……….K2 p2 k2 p1?
meaing last three stitches going to be p2 k2 p1?
many thanks!!!
JOJO
Hi Jojo-
When we say Mistake Rib is a multiple of 4 + 3 it means that this stitch pattern will work if you cast on any number that is a multiple of 4 plus 3. For example 23 (5X4= 20 + 3= 23) or 47 (11 X 4= 44 + 3= 47)
K2P2 does mean knit, knit, purl, purl.
The last 3 stitches will be knit, knit, purl.
Thanks for getting in touch with your questions!
Molly
Hi – I would like to use Malabrigo Mecha for this pattern and use #10 needle. Do you know how many CO i would need. Also do I slip the first stitch? If so – do i just continue with K2 after that?
Pls he[p!
Thamks
Hi Suan-
We are not familiar with that yarn so you will need to do a swatch in the stitch pattern. From there you can determine how many stitches you are getting per inch and then determine how many to cast on. Just be sure to cast on a number that is a multiple of 4 plus 3 for both your swatch and the final scarf.
You can follow the pattern as written, no need to slip the first stitch.
Thank you!
Molly
Hi, This is my first attempt at knitting and it's going well apart from some of the purl stitches on the edge looking a bit loose, baggy and messy. How can I stop this happening? Many thanks
Hi Carlpie-
You can slip the first stitch of every row as if to knit and it should help the edges. Count the slipped stitch as a K1. Work row as follows: Slip 1 stitch as if to knit, k1, p2. *k2, p2; repeat from * to last 3 stitches. K2, p1.
Thank you!
Molly
Hello, I love the look of the scarf pattern. I am from the UK but am in Saudi Arabia and no shops nearby for wool etc. I did bring back with me 2 large balls of James Brett Marble Chunky,think it is 200 grams each ball and also 3 balls of Robin Paintbox double knitting wool, total 300 grams. The needles I have with me are 1 pair 12mm, 1 pair 4 mm and 1 pair of 5mm. Can I knit this scarf using any of these wools? what would you recommend? many thanks for your advice. Annie Dunn
Hi Annie-
We aren't familiar with the yarns you list but you can do a few swatches to figure out what yarn and needle combination gets you closest to the gauge listed in the pattern. It doesn't have to be exact since this is a scarf and doesn't have to fit like a sweater would.
Thank you for getting in touch!
Molly
Hi this looks like an amazing project ..
Is this scarfs for a male or female?
Also I am using metric needles, please confirm needle size in metric…
Thank you !
Hi Shama-
This scarf is unisex, it works for both men and women! It uses an 8mm needle.
Thank you!
Molly
Hi.
I have a very serious question. I have made this scarf and it is gorgeous. But I can't cast off. I read your comments and you tried to address it, maybe I am just stupid. I am trying doing it in pattern. But it just looks wider than the other end. Maybe because I am not a professional knitter and only do it on and off for my own projects, could you please tell me what I am doing wrong?
For last row I take two loops on my right needle, knit once, put one loop back on the left needle, knit again with double loops, then do purl twice, then knit twice, and then when I have nothing left, it is as wide as can be with no pattern whatsoever. Maybe I am not casting off properly. I really want this scarf to be perfect as a finished product, not just look nice on my needles.
Thank you for your great ideas on this website.
Hi Shirin-
Yes, you are casting off incorrectly. Here is a step by step guide on how to cast off in this pattern:
K2, Pass the first knit stitch on your right needle over the second stitch and off the needle, * P1, Pass the first stitch on your right needle over the second and off the needle, P1, Pass the first stitch on your right needle over the second and off the needle, K1, Pass the first stitch on your right needle over the second and off the needle, K1, Pass the first stitch on your right needle over the second and off the needle, Repeat from * until the last stitch, K1, Pass the first stitch on your right needle over the second and off the needle.
I hope this helps! Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
I would like to do this mistake stitch scarf. My 1st question: I bought 100% merino wool from a lady who has her sheeps and makes her own wool. It is a 3 ply, 300 yd. that makes 21 st/30 rows, 4 inc., she told me to take 5mm needles for a scarf. How many stitches should I cast on, I would like it to be 6 inches wide? 2nd question:The pattern says to cast on 39 stitches but does not say wich kind of cast on. I read the January 13, 2014 question regarding casting off. When you replied to cast off in ribbing, should we CAST ON in ribbing also to make it look the same at both ends? Thank you for your help, appreciate your explanations, anxious to start the scarf.
Hi Caroline-
You will have to do a swatch in pattern to determine how many stitches to cast on. Once you figure out how many stitches you are getting per inch in this pattern you can then multiply that number by 6, since you want the finished scarf to be 6 inches, then round that number to the nearest multiple of 4 plus 3 and that's how many you should cast on.
For example: let's say you're getting 5 stitches per inch in the stitch pattern. 5 X 6= 30 rounded to a multiple of 4 gets you to 32 and then you add 3= 35 to cast on. If this is too confusing just let us know how many stitches per inch you're getting and we'll be happy to do the math!
We recommend using a basic long tail cast on for this project.
Thanks for your questions!
Molly
First, I would really like to say how awesome and helpful your website has been. I basically knit while watching your tutorial videos. I absolutely love this scarf, but would like to add a huge button to it. How would you recommend making a button hole for this pattern? I'm thinking I'd like to place it towards the right side of it as opposed to directly in the middle.
Thanks!
Hi Amber-
For a simple buttonhole we would recommend that you do a yarn over (often abbreviated as "yo") followed by knitting two together (often abbreviated as k2tog.)
For video demonstrations of these two techniques please see our knitting videos page:
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/knitting-videos/
Thank you!
Molly
I'm just learning to knit can you please explain to me what gauge means. I can't find 12ply yarn anywhere around here, what other kind of yarn would work please? Thank you kindly,
Kelly
Hi Kelly-
The Ggauge is how many stitches you are getting per inch in a particular pattern.For example, in this pattern the gauge is 4.5 stitches per inch. To get this gauge you'll need to use yarn which is the appropriate weight, meaning that it's not too thick and not too thin.
Yarn labels often give a suggested needle size as well as a suggested gauge. This gauge is almost always in stockinette stitch. For example: The 12 ply yarn used in this project has a suggested needle size of US 11 and a suggested gauge of 3 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch. This is considered a chunky weight yarn. So if you are looking for an alternative yarn you'll want to look for something "chunky" that suggests a size 11 needle and a 3 stitch per inch gauge.
I hope this helps!
Molly
Thank you for responding so quickly yes you really did help, thank you!! 🙂
I'm totally confused. Does 2nd row start with knit 1 purl 2 and then knit 2 purl 2?
Hi Barbara-
Every row is exactly the same. So…
Row 1: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Row 2: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Row 3: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Row 4: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Just keep going like that!
Thanks for your question and let us know if you have any more.
Molly
I love this scarf! I made it in a very pretty "oatmeal" color and everyone wants it! My question is this, do you think I could make it using two different colors? I want to make a scarf for my son who has recently graduated from college and I want to use his school colors.
Thanks
Hi! I'm planning to make this project but when I read to the bottom in THE PATTERN this part confused me: Sew in ends, wash gently by hand, block and let air dry.
What do you mean by "block"? I'm just starting to knit and any help would be much appreciated!
Thanks,
Anna
Hi Anna-
Here is a link to our blocking tutorial. It should explain things!
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/knitting-tutorials-finishing/2006/11/13/blocking.html
Thanks for writing in!
Molly
Hi Monica-
Yes, you can make this striped in two different colors but the transitions between the colors might not be as clean looking as you'd like. I'd recommend doing a swatch with the two different colors to see how you like it. If you don't like it you might try doing a regular 1X1 rib- (knit one, purl one) since that would give you a very clean stripe.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I'm currently knitting this scarf in Rowan Cocoon yarn, and it's lovely! However I prefer a longer scarf, so I'm making it 60 inches instead of 48. I've found that 4 skeins of Rowan Cocoon are perfect for this.
I have just finished the scarf knitted in Sirdar Bonus Aran, colour Barley, and I am delighted with the finished scarf. It will be a Christmas present for my son living in Boston, U.S.A. He is 6’6″ so I made it just over 5′. He loves to receive scarves that are a good length on him.
Very many thanks for the pattern 🙂
Barbara. Cambridge. U.K.
Could I make this scarf on circular needles if yes please tell me how many stitches to cast using size ten needles bulky weight yarn
Hi Laura-
You could make this scarf on circular needles if you use the needles to knit back and forth and not in a circle. We actually use circular needles for all of our projects.
You probably don’t need to change the cast on number because it sounds like you are using similar yarn with only slightly smaller needles. But if you would like to change the cast on just make sure the cast on number is a multiple of 4 plus 3.
Thanks!
Molly
Yay Molly! Someone else that uses circulars for all their knitting 🙂 The only exception I have these days is using dpn for working the fingers on gloves. Love all the patterns and designs on the site, find it wonderful for inspiration.
Must go now and carry on my Christmas knitting.
You can use circular needles for glove fingers and socks if you use the magic loop method. You can find tutorials if you google “magic loop.”
I’ve always used circular needles for everything. When I use singles, I always lose one. I can set it down next to me and still lose it. I’d have to lose the whole project when I use circulars.
Thanks for sharing your tips Sheila! -Alyson
I knit everything on circular needles. Use them as tho straight needles but just much easier to keep things from slipping off or have ends sticking out.
Hello Linda!
I usually do too! It makes for easier subway knitting since your elbows don’t stick out as much! Happy knitting! -Alyson
I, too, use circulars for everything, even double cables or magic loop for small stuff.
I teach knitting and other needlecrafts at a YMCA and I have all my students use circulars from the beginning. I use the excuse (actually the truth) that this is the only way I can avoid loosing a needle. I also knit my fair share of blankets (my biggest was 200 stitches in super bulky on 13s – ended up almost 100″ wide and I made it 6 feet long – as a sofa blanket for my granddaughter, her husband, their daughter and their dog!
All in one piece on 36″ circular.
I could not find yarn in the weight I wanted (5), so ended up with 6 which has a recommended needle size is 13. If I use size 13, I am guessing I’ll need to cast on fewer stitches? If I stay with the size 11 needles, and cast on the recommended 39 stitches, I am guessing I will have a scarf that doesn’t drape very well. What is your recommendation since drape is important to me?
Thank you
Hi Nan-
Everyone knits differently so needle size is always just a suggestion. We recommend that you try a gauge swatch before you cast on for the whole scarf and see how you like the resulting fabric and if you are getting the proper amount of stitches per inch. If it’s too tight you should go up a needle size, if it’s too loose you go down. For a pattern like this, that doesn’t have to fit like a hat or sweater you don’t have to get the perfect amount of stitches per inch- as long as it’s pretty close- you just have to like how it looks and feels!
Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
I should have added that the yarn I’m using is Lion Brand Thick & Quick. It’s heavier than the same brand in “chunky”, but as I said, the colors I needed were not available. I am using size 15 needles and as you can guess, there is not a lot of “drape.” Still, I will make this again and choose a yarn that is soft … for a man’s scarf, the thicker yarn will work just fine. This is such an easy pattern and I can’t wait to try it again.
With this pattern k2 pm and last 3 do k2 p1. When I finish the first row do I flip to the other side and do same knitting or do I do it in reverse thanks.
Hi Lucy!
You will knit the same row over and over again! Do not reverse the directions at all.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
with this pattern can you do a hat with it and how would you do it thanks.
Hi Lucy,
The Mistake Rib is not a 1 row pattern in the round. I’d probably suggest knitting a hat flat and doing a small seam!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
I just finished a mistake stitch hat! It was a free pattern and is called Steinway Hat and the designer has directions for flat or circular needles. Just do a web search for it .
What do you mean when you say “sew in ends?”
Hi Chris!
It is also called “weaving in your ends.” We have a wonderful tutorial on the Purl Bee about how to weave in your ends. You can find it here.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi, I am going to knit a scarf using 9mm needles and chunky yarn, a 500g ball, but I don’t know how many stitches to cast on? I would like it a decent length, but also not too thin.
Hi Marla-
The only way to tell is to knit a little swatch in the yarn. Cast on, say, 20 stitches and knit in your desired pattern until you have a square. You can measure your gauge (how many stitches you’re getting per inch) from this swatch and determine how many to cast on from there. It is very tricky to tell how much area you will get from one ball of yarn so unfortunately you may just have to wing it and possibly get more yarn if you don’t have enough to reach the length you like.
Thanks so much for getting in touch!
Molly
Gorgeous scarf and easy to make.
I’m making this as a gift. It’s so easy and looks even better than in the photo! I’m using Lion Brand Hometown USA and size 15 needles with 19 sts Cast on.
I have size 17 knitting needles and bulky yarn. How many stitches would I cast on?
Hi Lisa-
The only way to tell for sure is to knit a gauge swatch in the pattern! Knit a small square (roughly 4-inches X 4-inches) and then measure how many stitches you are getting per inch and multiply that number by 8 (8 inches is the finished width of the scarf) and round to the nearest multiple of 4 +3. For instance, if you are getting 3 stitches per inch in the pattern multiply 3 X 8 to get 24. 24 is a multiple of 4 so you can just add 3 to get 27 stitches to cast on.
Or, if you are feeling lazy and don’t want to do a gauge swatch you can try casting on 27 stitches and see if you like it!
Thanks for getting in touch!
Best-
Molly
Thanks for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Hello, I love this pattern and would love to knit it in strips! I am just not sure how that would work with the slip-stitch at the beginning of the rows. Any advice? Thanks so much!
Hi Karina!
I’m assuming you mean that you will eventually use mattress stitch to stitch strips together to make it wider. If so, it is actually easier to sew a mattress stitch if you have done a slip stitch edge. Just be sure that each side that you sew through is 2 rows, or 1 of the slipped stitches.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
I knit left handed. If I follow the directions, will it still look the same or do I need to do something different?
Hi Jan!
You should be able to knit the pattern as it is written, and it will come out the same! As a mirror knitter, you’ll find you can do that on any pattern that isn’t asymmetrical.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hello,
Would it be possible to make this scarf out of wool and 2.75mm/3.25 mm needles? (I live where it’s summer for the whole year, so these are the best needles and wool that I can find. Is it okay? I really want to try this pattern out! If it’s possible, which size needle would go recommend?
Thanks!
Hi Jane!
This would be a pretty easy scarf to adjust. You can choose your wool and needles that match the wool, and all you need to remember is to cast on a multiple of 4 stitches plus 3 extra stitches. Experiment with cast on numbers that work for that multiple, and see how wide you’d like your scarf to be!
Happy knitting!
Thomas
love the simplicity of the pattern. Thanks.
Do I bind off in pattern? K2 P2?
Hi Cheryl-
Yes you should bind off in pattern!
Thanks for getting in touch!
Best-
Molly
If you cast on a multiple of 4 stitches plus 1, i.e. 37 (9 times 4+1) or 41(10 times 4 +1) you finish each row with a knit stitch and it gives you a FIRMER edge.
Daphne, would love to know how your pattern turned out
2304 Taylor AV.
This is a great pattern! It looks GREAT!
easy to work while sitting, chatting–watching TV
On a trip, car, train, or what ever.
Do you need to use a selvedge edge for this scarf? If so, can you tell me how this is done?
Is it okay if I use Malabrigo worsted with number 9 needles?
This is a nice pattern. I plan to make three as gifts. I hope this pattern is simple enough that I don’t mess up, or if I do, the mistake won’t show. I have a tendency to mess up something very simple.
Thanks for your help.
Hi Rosemary Gooden-
The complete pattern is shown here, you don’t have to do anything extra to the edges. It’s fine to use the other yarn and needle you mention, but the scarf will be thinner than this version. If you’d like to cast on extra stitches just make sure the total cast on number is a multiple of 4 + 3. I might try casting on 43 stitches if I were you.
Thanks for your questions and good luck with the project!
Molly
I’ve made one easy mistake rib scarf with one skein of Malabrigo Rios and casting on 39 stitches and using #9 needles. I want to make the next two scarves in the same yarn and amount, but narrower so I can make the scarf longer. I know that the stitch is 4+3, but I’m in a quandary as to the needle size and amount of yarn needed to make a narrower scarf.
Thank you for your help. My thoughts are with you as you anticipate a major snow storm.
Hi Rosemary!
We’re not very familiar with the Rios, but it looks like it is a worsted weight. For a scarf, it just matters that you use a needle that matches the yarn. For worsted weight, you’d use about an size 8 or so. I’m not sure how much yarn you need either. We used about 300 yards, and I think that would probably be enough even in worsted weight, maybe a little less if you are going narrower.
Hope this helps!
Thomas
I made one for my husband and it was beautiful.
Thank you!
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/314266880223181997/
I am teaching my colleagues at the Health Department to knit (caps and scarves to be handed out at clinic on this 12F days) and this is the scarf pattern that I use.
It seems to me that when i knit the second row I would knit 1 (on the P stitch, then P 2, knit 2 etc., am i wrong?
Hi Bette-
The pattern is correct as written. If you give it a try using any scrap yarn you have laying around you’ll see how it comes together!
Thanks for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
I stumbled upon this pattern on my own — same number stitches, everything. One recipient is 6’8″ and lives in North Dakota, the other is 4’10” and lives in Arizona. How long should the scarf be? I discovered that if the length of the scarf is the wearer’s height or a little more, when it wraps around the neck it is just the right length.
Hi Paulette-
I’m afraid there’s no magic formula for how long to make a scarf but you can shoot to make them about as tall as the wearer. I hope this helps and thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
One of the knitting books i have say’s to knit a scarf , as long as the person is tall. i have done 2 of them and it is right.
I followed the pattern, I think, and I feel like it didn’t turn out the way it’s pictured here. I actually made two scarves. I like what I made but I’d like to know why mine are so different than the one pictured here. I would say that the ridges/rows on the scarves that I made are horizontal/short while the ridges/rows on the scarf pictured here are vertical/long. Can you explain why?
Hi CMK-
It’s hard to tell without seeing your scarves. Would you mind sending us a photo so we can try to get to the bottom of this? [email protected]
Thank you!
Molly
I would like to know if it is possible to knit this mistake rib with two colors. I suppose I can knit with one color and purl with the other one. Am I right or have you another method?
Many thanks
Christine from Belgium
Hi Christine,
Thank you for the comment. You can absolutely use 2 colors to knit this. If you change colors every 2 rows you will be carrying the yarns up on the same side of the work and shouldn’t have to change the pattern at all. You can also switch color every row but you will need to use double pointed or circular needles so that you can slide to the opposite side of the work freely. If you change colors every row you may need to alter the stitch pattern slightly. I recommend doing some swatches and playing around with the colors to see what happens!
Good luck and let us know if you have anymore questions!
Happy Knitting,
Jake
I have seen patterns which suggest slipping the first stitch for a smoother edge. But it said “knit row” so I was curious if I would only slip that stitch on every other row!
Hi Karen,
Thank you for the comment! Slipping the first stitch does create a very nice, smooth edge. You will want to just slip the fist stitch in every row because that stitch will be knit in the following row as the last stitch. Here’s another version of the Mistake Rib Scarf that has the slip stitch worked into the pattern already;
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/11/17/mistake-rib-scarf-in-mulberry-merino/
I hope that answers your question and feel free to respond if you have anymore questions!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
I have “gobs” of 4 ply acrylic yarn and would love to use some of it to do this easy scarf. What size needle would you suggest and how many stitches would I need to cast on to make the scarf about 7/8 inches wide?
Hi Barb,
Thank you for writing us! I am not entirely sure what the weight of your yarn truly is, there is no real universal gauge for a 4 ply yarn as every company uses it’s own terms and qualifiers to describe weight of yarn. I think the yarn should fall in the needle size US 4 – US 7. I would try doing a gauge swatch in the stitch pattern on maybe a US 6 and decide if you think the fabric should have looser stitches or tighter ones and then try going up or down in needle size accordingly. Then you count how many stitches you achieve in one inch and multiply that number by your desired width to find a cast on number! Here’s a tutorial on how to check gauge; https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2006/08/29/swatching-for-gauge/
I hope this helps and feel free to write back if you have anymore questions!
Good Luck!
Jake
Hello I have 60mm needles would that be do big to make scarfs? Could you suggest any good books for beginners??
Hi Tia-
60mm needles are really huge! We don’t carry any that large, but yes, large needles can be used to make big bulky scarves. I would recommend starting out with something a lot smaller thought! We have a great Learn to Knit kit that also comes as a separate book if you don’t want to get the whole kit: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/8946-Purl-Soho-Learn-to-Knit-Kit
Good luck and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Best-
Molly
Hi just going to start out this pattern. I am fairly new to knitting. I have a load of double knit wool would I get the same result and would the pattern have to change in anyway for example cast on stitches etc 🙂
Hello Samantha,
You’re right that you would need to change the pattern a little to accommodate the size yarn you want to use. I would estimate that you would need to double the number of stitches in the cast on. The only way to know precisely is to make a gauge swatch and measure out how many stitches per inch you get and then multiply that by how many inches wide you want your scarf to end up.
Hope this helps and happy knitting! -Alyson
This was my first knitting project. Thanks for such a simple pattern. Great for beginners.
HI i have just finish this project for my FIL & it is just a beautiful manly pattern that any beginners can have. I used size 8 straight needles and two different colors yarn.Thank you so much for this pattern , if you want, i would love to show you my work.Hope to have more like this. …….Sumana from India.
Hello Sumana!
We’re so glad to hear that the pattern worked out for you! We’d love to see your finished pieces on Ravelry or at customerservice AT purlsoho DOT com. Happy knitting! -Alyson
“If you’re interested in the Lovely Leaf Lace Scarf (the orange one on the right), you can find the full, free pattern right here! – See more at: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2008/12/02/easy-mistake-stitch-scarf/#sthash.gWrA93ZH.dpuf”
Link is no longer available or correct. Do you have the pattern elsewhere? Thanks 🙂
Thanks for sharing Julie! Our site has gone under a major transition, so thanks for your patience!
Enjoy! -Alyson
When going up to the next row, it starts off as a purl stitch, should I purl that and then stitch two, then continue on? Or should I just knit two purl two?
Hi Nancy-
No, make sure you have cast on 39 stitches (or a multiple of 4 +3 if you are making a wider or narrower scarf), just repeat the first row over and over.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I loved this pattern but, I am interested in using less yarn and turning it into a cowl with buttons. At what point would you suggest incorporating button holes in the pattern? Or could possibly point me in the direction of a good source to reference? Thank you!
Hello Jessica!
Would you like the cowl to go around your neck just once with buttons almost like a little collar? I would recommend measuring how long you want the final piece to be with a measuring tape around your neck and then put the button holes 2″ from the edge. I would recommend taking a look at some patterns on Ravelry for reference!
Best of luck! -Alyson
Do you have working pictures of this project? I am a self taught knitter…. like 5 days ago. I am questioning if I am correctly applying the pattern.
Hello Jodi,
Welcome to the knitting world! Unfortunately we don’t have more photos at this time of the stitch pattern in progress. What aspects are you having most trouble with? We’d be happy to expand and explain a certain technique if that would help! Let us know! -Alyson
I would like to use worsted weight yarn to make this scarf. How many stitches would I cast on and what size needles would I use?
Hello Theresa!
I would cast on 47 stitches and use size US 8 needles to create about an 8.5 inch wide scarf. Hope this helps! Enjoy! -Alyson
With reference Jessica’s query about knitting a cowl in mistake rib.I knitted one to the given pattern and kept measuring it around my neck while still on the needle to get the desired length. I preferred it wrapped around my neck twice, I do not stitch the ends together but fasten it with a decorative wooden pin. I have also used a kilt pin with small charms attached, I always receive positive comments about the cowl and pins. I live in the UK so I don’t know if these pins are available to the rest of the knitting world.
Hi, Caryl!
Thank you for your response! That is a wonderful suggestion! We do sell kilt pins (https://www.purlsoho.com/large-kilt-pins.html and https://www.purlsoho.com/small-kilt-pins.html) as well as some beautiful brass pins (https://www.purlsoho.com/brass-cloth-pins.html and https://www.purlsoho.com/brass-safety-pins.html). Again, thank you for writing in!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Is this scarf unisex? I am considering to make for my husband. Would dimensions be the same for a man’s scarf? Thank you.
Hello Diane!
Absolutely! This is quite a popular pattern with our customers for boyfriends, brothers, fathers, husbands, etc! Unless your husband prefers a specific width scarf, I’d keep the pattern as is for a standard width. Thanks for writing in and happy knitting! -Alyson
Do you have a pattern that knits vertically? I like to cast on a large amount. This makes it faster for me.
Hello Glenda!
We do have a few patterns knit vertically! Take a look here at our Sunshine Scarf https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2011/08/21/whits-knits-sunshine-scarf/ and our Bamboo Wedding Shawl: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2011/05/15/whits-knits-bamboo-wedding-shawl/
Thanks for writing in and happy knitting! -Alyson
I made a scarf with this stich pattern, before I knew what it was called. I used worsted weight yarn and maybe #9 (5.5mm) needles. Just finished another using #10.5 (6.5mm). while the scarf looks narrow, it stretches wider with ease. When I made the first one I used 25 stiches, now I am using 27. The pattern really becomes apparent after 5-6 rows.
Hi, last time I tried to make this scarf it came out WAY to wide, I was using thicker needles though, so if i now have size 10 will it be the same width as the picture?
Hi Alexis,
Thank you for writing in! You are correct that using a larger size needle and/or yarn will yield a wider scarf. If you would like to ensure that the scarf comes out to the same measurements as is pictured in the pattern, I recommend doing a gauge swatch with the needles and yarn that you intend to use. The gauge for this project is 4.5 stitches per inch in rib pattern, slightly stretched. If your gauge comes out differently, you can swatch again in a larger or smaller needle until you achieve the desired gauge. This will then allow you to knit the scarf to the pattern specification!
If you are unfamiliar with creating a gauge swatch, we have a handy tutorial available.
I hope that this clears things up!
Happy knitting!
-Cassy
I started the pattern (maybe 10 rows in) and I’m not seeing the ribbing! The math of it is also confusing for me. Don’t you want the knit stitches and the pearl stitches to line up? If you end with one pearl stitch, shouldn’t you start the next row with one pearl stitch so they line up? What am I missing? Thanks!
Hi, Evan!
Thank you for writing in! Sorry about the delayed response! If you have cast on the correct number of stitches and are following the pattern the rib will start to emerge soon! Just keep going for a few inches to see what’s really going on. If you have further questions please let us know! Again, thank you for your question.
Happy knitting,
Kumeko
Can you please tell me which cast on method you used? Thank you!
Hi Diana,
Thanks for writing in and my apologies for the terribly delayed response! Unless otherwise noted, we almost always use the long tail cast-on method. We think that it gives a lovely, even edge!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi, please tell me what does Mistake rib is a multiple of 4+3 mean? Am I supposed to implement it in the pattern? If so how. I am following the directions of the pattern but not sure about the note. Thank you
Hello, Sadiha!
Thank you so much for writing in! Sorry for the delayed response! The note that says, “Mistake Rib is worked over a multiple of 4 + 3 stitches,” just means that the stitch pattern requires a cast-on number that is a multiple of 4, then you add three stitches. For example, the cast on for this scarf is 67, but really it is 64+3. This note is here to help you figure out how many stitches to cast on if you wanted to change the width of the scarf, i.e. if you wanted to make it wider you could cast on 84+3 (87).
If you’re not going to make any adjustments to the pattern you don’t have to do a thing, just follow it as it’s written.
Again, thank you for writing in! If you have further questions, please let us know!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Great pattern 😀 Love it!!
Thanksss
Hi – I was wondering if I could use this pattern on a knitting loom (like the knifty knitter).
Hi Peggy,
I looked up how to use the knifty knitter and I think that you could adapt this for the loom since the process is manual. A mistake rib is essentially a 2×2 rib over an odd amount of stitches. To make a purl stitch on the knifty knitter I would assume that you pass the bottom stitch over the top stitch from the back of the work instead of the front. I hope this helps and good luck!
-Adam
Hello from Australia,
I have used this pattern many times with many different yarns. It is such a versatile pattern that can be adapted easily. Am currently knitting with double 8ply wool (thats 16 ply) for a friend in cold Tasmania. Have also added tassels on occasion (for a teenager). The best and easiest pattern.
Regards
Sally
Hello from New York City!
So glad you like this pattern! Be sure to tag us on Instagram if you have it so we can see the final product!
Thanks,
Adam
Could I just use any size needle and yarn for this? Since it’s a scarf and it doesn’t have to be exact. Plus, it doesn’t state how many rows to knit. Just “repeat”
Hi Kay,
Thanks for the question! It is true that gauge and needle size is not as important for scarves as for sweaters and socks, but you also don’t want to make the scarf too wide or narrow. If you want to make this scarf in a different size yarn and needle, you’ll probably want to do a gauge swatch. To do this, you’ll knit a swatch to determine your stitches per inch and then multiply your stitches per inch by your desired width for the scarf. This pattern is knit up in multiples of 4 + 3, so it’s very much adjustable for width.
There is no row count for this scarf because you simply knit until your scarf is long enough! Best of luck and happy knitting!
-Adam
An easy pattern. Just finished knitting one in self stripping yarn and it is lovely. Thank you for clear instructions.
Do the sides curl in with this pattern? I just bought a skein of Lion Brand Scarfie and this pattern looks lovely.
Hi Diana,
No this pattern does not curl in.
Enjoy!
Can you convert this to an infinity scarf ? And would you sew it flat or twist it?
Hi, Carol!
Thank you so much of your question! You can totally convert this to an infinity scarf! If you used a provisional cast-on you can use the Kitchener Stitch to graft the two ends together. Or, if you used a long tail cast on, you’d bind off in pattern. Then cut the yarn, leaving a long tail and sew the cast on and bind off edges together. Regarding sewing it flat or twisted, I personally would sew it flat but it’s really more a matter of personal preference!
Again, thank you for writing in! Please let us know if you have further questions!
Best,
Kumeko
This is my third time doing this scarf in variegated yarn from RedHeart & I must say they have turned out beautiful. The first two were in black light & now am doing it in Icelandic. This is such an easy pattern to do on circular needles considering they are so much easier to use than straight needles.
Keep up the good work love this pattern lots.
For those interested in those yarns I got them at Walmart.
Hi,
Beginner knitter over here – I’ve completed 1 scarf before just using just the k-knot? Also did them on straight needles. I recently just bought circular ones so I was wondering how to transition.
How long would this project take say I do 2 hours a day?
Thanks!
Kim
Hi Kim,
Thanks for writing in! Although we used circular needles for this project, we knit this scarf flat, meaning back in forth in rows, turning the work at the end of each row. To use circular needles for knitting flat you simply finish a row, turn the work so the other side is facing you and put the needle that was in your right hand into your left hand and the needle that was in your left hand into your right hand, ready to go on the next row!
By the way, once you get the hang of it, you may find that you never use straight needles again, even for projects without so many stitches. Circular needles are just easier to keep track of (no losing one in the cushions of your couch!), and they never poke the person sitting next to you!
Estimating how long it might take to knit this scarf is a bit challenging. Everyone knits at different rates. Your 2 hours of knitting and another knitter’s two hours of knitting could translate to a dramatically different amount of knitting. That said, this scarf goes quite quickly and most knitters can finish it in a few weeks.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi Cassy,
I appreciate the response! Excited to try the needles even though it seems more intimidating 😛 I’m excited to make this as a xmas gift so perhaps I’ll update here once I’m done how it came out!
Thanks,
Kim
I only ever use circular needles. I got hooked on circular needles when I was commuting to work by bus. Nothing
worse than having one needle fall onto the floor of the bus
while starting a new row . Nothing to worry about when using circular needles. I don’t think I have any straight needles now –
have given them all away.
Kim,
I searched & found out how to bind off in purl stitch it’s easy to do.
Good luck with circular needles
Audra
So I started this on circular needles. I am a little confused. If you repeat the same thing each row isn’t each row different cause of the odd stitch? So in my second row I start with k2 p2 but that is going on top of p1 k2? Shouldn’t I be knitting into Knits and purling into purls?
Hi, Emily!
Thank you for writing in! I know the pattern can seem a bit confusing, but if you give it a try using any scrap yarn you have laying around you’ll see how it comes together! It’s because of the odd stitch that you will knit into your knits and purl into your purls. Here’s a quick break down of the pattern, just in case you might find that helpful.
Row 1: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Row 2: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Row 3: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Row 4: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1.
Just keep going like that!
Please let us know if you have any further questions! Again, thank you for writing in!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Thanks for this breakdown – I was confused about this also. We’re going to try it!
Mathematically, this is still not making sense to me. That odd purl stitch at the end.. then I pick up and knit on top, makes sense, but I’m knitting 2… which means 1 on top of the purl and 1 on top of a knit… ? My brain wants to understand! I used the right size needles, but now, after about 6 or 7 rows, it is looking way way thicker than the picture.. I’m using a carisma yarn, like a medium thickness. Any advice? I think because I haven’t knitted in a few years I’m still getting my groove. I think I will take it out and do 23 stitches the way you suggested below.. and I’m going to keep trying this pattern even though to me it doesn’t make sense!
Hi Melissa,
Thanks for writing in! The math here and can be a bit challenging to wrap your brain around! I would say just trust the pattern over a small number of stitches and see how it comes out! The mistake rib is created by that slight mis-staking of knits and purls. It creates a lovely texture!
Best,
Cassy
Emily,
They are right the scarf turns out beautiful. Just follow the instructions like they are written. The pattern is amazing.
Good luck.
Audra
This is an easy scarf to work while you are in the car while someone is walking your dog at a park.
Hi, I’ve just finished knitting this scarf and realized it seems too short at 48″. There’s not much you can do with a scarf that short in terms of how to wear it. It can’t be wrapped around the neck, but only can hang. I’m trying to get this out as a Christmas present and wonder if I need to get another skein… Is this length correct?
Hi Joanne,
Thanks for writing in! The intended finished length of this scarf is 48″. This is a shorter scarf that can be worn with one end down the front and one down the back. You can certainly get another skein to add length if you would like! The thing that I love about knitting is that you are the boss and can knit it as long as you want!
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
I love this scarf pattern. I used Wool-Ease by Lion Brand -Fisherman, to knit a scarf for myself a couple years ago. I have worn the scarf ever since. It still looks gorgous and better than any scarf I have seen in the store to date. And even better I can wear it dressed down or dressed up. It is perfect.
Hello! I was wondering what the best way to adjust this if I would like to make a thinner scarf?
Hi Nancy,
Thanks for writing in! The mistake rib is a multiple of 4+3 stitches. If you would like to make a thinner version you can cast on a smaller of number of stitches that matches this formula. For example, if you wanted a scarf that was about half as wide or 4 inches wide you would cast on 23 stitches (4 x 5 = 2 + 3 = 23).
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year.
Happy knitting all.
Audra
Hello I am looking to start knitting for the very first time. I like the look of this scarf, but want to make a thick luxurious hat. Is there a pattern for a mistake stitch hat with uses the Jade Cashmere 8 or 12 ply yarn?
Ellen
Hi Ellen,
Thanks for writing in and welcome to the knitting world! We do not have a matching hat in mistake rib but you certainly can knit a hat to coordinate by using the same color. For the 8 ply cashmere, you can knit any of our worsted weight hats (https://www.purlsoho.com/create/category/knit-accessories/knit-accessories-type-hats+knit-accessories-yarn-weight-worstedaran/). For the 12 ply cashmere, you can knit our Super Soft Merino Hats for Everyone or the Cozy Ear Flap Hat.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I am a new knitter. I started this scarf and ended the first row in the correct order of 2k1p. However on the next 4 rows, after I p2′ there are 4 stitches left a t the end, so I have been knitting 3 & ending with 1p. What am I doing wrong?
Thank you
Hi Paulette,
Thanks for the question. Often, new knitters end up increasing or decreasing stitches, so I would recount your stitches and make sure you still have the amount you cast on with. If you do, then somewhere along the row you are not doing k2 p2 and are either adding or eliminating a knit or purl. Let me know if you have any other questions!
-Adam
I’m planning to do this scarf again in the Deborah Norville Everyday yarn I picked up on sale the day after Christmas it was 50% off at JoAnn’s.
Want to make another mistake scarf using your super soft merino yarn. Is it best to use size 11 needles. I made this pattern a few years back with Noro variegated and used size 11. Please advise. I know I will need 3 skeins.
Hi Nancy,
Thanks for writing in! I would say that using size US 11 needles with the Super Soft Merino would be your best bet! As always, I would suggest doing a small gauge swatch to make sure that you like the fabric on US 11 needles. If it is too tight, you can go up a needle size and if it is too loose, you can go down a needle size!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I am very New. Just started yesterday and now have 44 stitches. How do I get back to 39 stitches. What to do?
Hi Sally,
Thanks for writing in! It seems like you may have increased by accident! In cases where this happens, I suggest ripping back until you get to a row that has the correct number of stitches and begin knitting from there. If you are not to far along, you may want to rip out and start over again. The best way to avoid this in the future is count your stitches every few rows to make sure that you are on track until you get in the swing of the pattern. Be assured that this happens to all of us from time to time and we all have to rip back!
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi
I am just learning to knit, so this pattern looks perfect. My daughter gave me some yarn to make her a scarf. (hmm)… Its not nearly as luscious as the yarn you feature, but I’ll get there! The yarn is “super bulky” 6, 106 yards/skein…I have 15 needles, and wonder if this will work. How many skeins do you think I’ll need to make it 70″ long?, and many stitches should I cast on? Thanks for your advice!
Hi Pat,
Thanks for writing in! The beauty of this pattern is that it can be knit out of any size yarn with just a little bit of work! The mistake rib is worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 3 stitches. To make a scarf that is 8 inches wide as the one above, you will look at the gauge (stitches per inch) and multiply that by 8 inches. Make sure that the cast on number that you choose is as close to this number as possible while being a multiple of 4 + 3 stitches. For example, if you are getting 2.5 stitches per inch on the US 15 needles, 2.5 x 8 = 20 stitches. The closest stitch number to this that will work is 19 or 23 stitches.
Estimating the number of skeins is a bit more challenging as your gauge has a lot to do with how much yarn is used. I would estimate 3 skeins but know that you may need more or less depending.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I’ve inherited a box of beautiful hand dyed yarns that my mother was given years ago. She was to knit samples of the different yarns for the person who owned the sheep and dyed the yarn. I am not sure what I can knit with the yarn. The prettiest is a hand painted/dyed yarn but I only have 8 oz./280 yards (I think medium weight). The most I have of any color are 2 skeins of same weight. All patterns seem to use much more yarn. Any suggestions, I love this pattern and was hoping to make it with one of these gorgeous yarns.
Thanks
Sharon
Hi Sharon,
Thanks for writing in! How lovely! What a treasure that sounds like! Without knowing the gauge, I can only make some general recommendations. With the single color, you could make a hat. You will need to figure out that gauge in order to decide on a pattern that will work best with it. To do so, knit a gauge swatch with needles that you think would work well. If you like the fabric, measure the number of stitches per inch and then you will know roughly what type of pattern you could use!
I think a scarf would be great using 2 or more colors. You could color block the scarf is colors that go well together and it would be lovely! You could also make a blanket out of a variety of colors. Our Super Easy Blankets are a great option as are the Bias Blankets.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
When I do the knit purl stitch for some reason the second row doesnt match the first Idk why, can someone help me
Hi Cheryl,
Thanks for the question. I suggest recounting your stitches and seeing if you’ve either lost or added a stitch by accident. If you are changing the pattern, remember that this stitch is knit over multiples of 4 + 3. Hope this helps!
Best of luck and happy knitting!
-Adam
Hello! Can’t wait to get started in this. It will be my very first knitting project. My 6 year old son had already claimed it as his and has picked out the yarn. It is a worsted weight but seems on the lighter side: Neighborhood Fiber Co, Cobbelstone Worsted in Rock Creek Park. Tag says 4-5 sts/inch US 6-7. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you!
Hi Sarah,
How great to have your knitted item claimed because your son loves it! You can knit this scarf out of any gauge yarn with just a small adjustment. The stitch pattern is worked over a multiple of 4 + 3 stitches. So to get a scarf roughly 8 inches wide with the yarn that you are hoping to use, you will cast on either 35 or 43 stitches using the suggested needles!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Thank you so much for the response!
Has anyone used this to make a scarf for men? I have a dk Marriner marrino yarn. Would tht be ok? Sorry im new to knitting.
Hi Aisha,
Thanks for writing in! We have seen this scarf on men and women alike and it looks great on everybody!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
I think this pattern has definite masculine appeal. It is chunky and not your ordinary rib st. I think many of the people commenting forget it is called the “Mistake Stitch”. That’s what makes it unique. As a beginner you don’t have the problem of have K2P2 then P2K2 on the next row in your head yet. Just stitch it as the pattern says, and DO count stitches now and then so that you don’t have to FROG… That’s Rip-it rip-it.
Hi,
I am a complete beginner at knitting but love this scarf. Are there any tutorials you could advise that would give me an idea of where to even start with this??
Thanks.
Hello Emma,
I think this scarf is a great beginner project! Here are our Knit Stitch and Purl Stitch tutorials. Good luck with your project and let us know if you have any further questions!
-Marilla
Hi! I’m a complete newbie in knitting, and I’m doing this pattern to my own scarf with normal needles, and I was wondering if I’m supposed to do k2, p2, k2, p2… for each row? Wouldn’t this make the columns that are present in the pattern not match? Wouldn’t doing every other row k2, p2… and every other row p2, k2… make the columns as they show up in the pictures? Sorry for having every sentence end with a question mark, I’m a bit lost.
Hi Chloe,
Thanks for writing in! As this pattern is a mistake rib, the k2, p2 stitch combination is set a bit off the create the stitch pattern. The columns will match up with a bit of texture between them. Additionally, the patterning does not pull in in the same way that a traditional rib does, causing the fabric to lay a bit flatter.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I am fairly new to knitting and I LOVE this pattern! I did it with super chunky wool, cast on 15 stitches on UK size 10 needles. It looks great! I have a feeling I know what a lot of my friends will be getting for Xmas this year 🙂
Aside from the all-time favorite garter stitch, I am wild about the mistake stitch. For a recent project I used a variegated yarn in shades of purple and it turned out super.
This was what I was looking for thank you so much…australia
Hello!
I am almost finished with tbis scarf. It is my first knitting creation ever! I love it. I am out of this world happy.
But now I am at the time to bind off, and I am stuck. I have looked up how to bind off in the “east mistake stitch” and I can’t seem to find how to do it. Can you provide me with a link to a tutorial or a break down of how I am supposed to bind off in this pattern?
Thank you! 🙂
Hi Nicole,
Thanks for writing in and congratulations on being so near to finishing your first project! We do not have a tutorial on how to bind this pattern off but I can help! When you are asked to bind off in pattern, you will work the pattern as you had on previous rows will binding off the stitches. Here the row that you work is: K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1. So to bind off, you will knit the first 2 stitches and then pass the first stitch over the second. This you will purl the next stitch and pass the first stitch on the right hand needle over the stitch that you just purled. You will then purl the next stitch and pass the first stitch on the right hand needle over the stitch that you just purled. You will then continue on in this fashion, knitting the next stitch and then passing over, knitting the next stitch and then passing over, purling the next stitch and passing over, etc.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
On the easy Mistake Stitch Scarf, I have a question. I see that you cast on 39 stitches. Then is every row K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches , k2, p1?
Hi Sue,
Thanks for writing in! That is correct! The beauty of this pattern is how easy it is to achieve! You will repeat the same row for every row and the beautiful pattern is created.
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Hi, I’m following this pattern and mine is curling – what am I doing wrong ? I’m about 18 inches long now.
Hey Anna!
Sorry to hear your scarf is giving you problems! I think the best thing to do is block the scarf by steaming it.
I hope this helps!
Carly
I’m new to knitting and I don’t know what a multiple is or how it changes what I am doing. What is a multiple? I tried knitting the pattern following the K2 P2 until the last 3 stitches then doing K2 P1 and it didn’t look correct, it looked like a bunch of tangled yarn and I was wondering what I may have done wrong as well.
Hi Sophie,
Thanks for writing in! When we mention the multiple here, we are referring to the number of stitches should you want to make the pattern wider or narrower. So with a multiple of 4 + 3, you would multiply 4 x any number and then add 3 stitches to get a cast on number that will work here. For example, 4 x 5 = 20 + 3 = 23, the cast on would be 23.
It does sound like you are working the pattern over the correct number of stitches. It should not look like a tangle of yarn. It is possible that you are knitting quite loosely and that this looseness is looking a little messier than you would like. I would suggest knitting at least 10 rows to get a sense of how the pattern looks. If it the fabric still seems too loose, you can try going down a needle size.
I hope that this helps and please do not hesitate to reach out!
Cassy
Hi There! I’m a beginner and I love this scarf. I can knit and purl, but I’m not sure how to “bind off in stitch pattern”. I have only casted off from a knit stitch in the past.
Hello,
To bind off in the stitch pattern, you are going to follow the pattern that you were doing, you will bind off knitwise the first two stitches, then bring your yarn forward as if to purl, and bind off the next two stitches purlwise. You will keep doing this until you reach the end.
I hope this helps,
Melissa
Hi,
I am just starting to knit and I have some skein of 6 ply lying around. I am planning to use wooden needles of size 9. I have tried to follow the pattern but I am getting clumps instead of the pattern. Could you tell me how many stitches I should cast?
Hello Tanul,
Thank you for reaching out! Mistake rib is a multiple of 4+3 for example: (4 x 9) + 3 = 39.
I hope this helps!
Happy knitting,
Marilla
I want to make this into a shawl using Sugarbush Motley yarn which is #3-light — 22 stitches = 4″ (10 cm) on 4.00 mm (US 5 – 7). I get a cast on of 111 stitches using a US 7. Am I correct?
Hi Lois,
Thanks for writing in! I am happy to help! If you swatch in stitch pattern is yielding 22 stitches over 4 inches, the number of stitches per inch would be roughly 5.5. For an 8 inch wide scarf, 5.5 stitches per inch x 8 inches would be 44 stitches. The nearest number that would match a multiple of 4 + 3, would be either 43 or 47 stitches. Do be sure that your swatch is in pattern as a ribbed pattern will pull in a little bit!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I want to make a shawl which would be approximately 30 inches wide.
Hi Lois,
Thanks for writing back! Is your swatch done in the mistake stitch pattern? If so, at 22 stitches over 4 inches, you cast on for a 30 inch wide scarf would be 163 stitches. If your swatch is in garter or stockinette, I would suggest knitting up a swatch in stitch pattern to ensure that your shawl is as wide as you hope!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Hello!
Love your site; everything about it – yarns, patterns. Though I created an account only recently, I have been a frequent visitor.
I was hoping to make this beautiful scarf for my friend for Christmas. The pattern says 8″ by 48″. If I wanted to make it 60″, how much more yarn will I need?
Thanks in advance,
~ Priya.
Hi Priya,
Thanks for writing in! To get a scarf that is 60″ long you will need 2 additional skeins of 12 Ply Cashmere! You will have a little left over, perhaps enough to make the scarf 64-65 inches long!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I love this scarf and I’m planning to knit it soon but will be using two needles. I have been knitting for over 60 years with two needles (one needle under my armpit) and find it slower to knit with a circular needle. Thank you for sharing the pattern.
HI Cilla,
Thanks for your kind words! While we used circular needles here, it is just preference! This lovely scarf can certainly be knit on straight needles!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
I’ve completed my scarf, but I have two tails on the ends of my scarf. I’m not too sure how to weave them in so they aren’t noticeable…
Hello Anisa,
Thank you for reaching out! I recommend checkin out our tutorial on Weaving in your ends– it will give you some tips and tricks on how to make it less noticeable.
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
Love this pattern! I used super chunky yard and US15 needles and I love how it turned out.
does anyone have a easy knit pattern for five different shades of green. i hope so and thanks for letting me know,
Hello Myra,
Thank you for reaching out! What is the gauge of the yarn you are working with? Is it an ombre of greens? I think this Mistake Stitch scarf could be beautiful in an ombre of color.
I hope I can help!
Happy knitting,
Marilla
Thank you for this patttern! I am going to make a scarf per your pattern. Thank you so much.
I have made this scarf a few times and used different yarn types and they all came out beautiful. I am starting another one. This project is my traveling project
Love the idea of this and can’t wait to get started. But, is there any way to get out of blocking, like larger needles, etc.? Or can you give any tips on how you blocked it? I don’t want to stretch it out too much. I tend to avoid patterns that need to be blocked.
Thanks, Shelby
Hello Shelby,
Thank you for reaching out! I would say that while blocking always helps to create a more finished look it is not a requirement. You can certainly knit this scarf up and not block, but if you would like to block I would check out our Tutorial for some helpful hints!
Happy knitting,
Marilla
I started making one of these for my pastor. Since he wears mostly black I didn’t want to go too colorful. I chose a black yarn with neon specks throughout.its really looking cool and the color specks give it just enough for a little pizzazz.
Hi! So I’m on about my 6th or 7th row (about 1.5-2in), but the ribbing isn’t showing? Is there a specific way the yarn is meant to be moved when going between knitting and purling? I’m just moving it back and forth because it IS pretty straightforward, but I’m not sure if there’s something more I’m missing, or if I just have to finish more rows before the pattern starts to show more. Thank you!
Hello Sydney,
Thank you for reaching out! Your stitch pattern should line up on every other stitch. This means that you will have a column of knit Vs, a column of alternating knit Vs and Purl bumps, a column of purl bumps, and then a column of alternating purls and knits. You should be seeing this pattern at this point, but it will become more pronounced as you go. How does the pattern look? Are any of the knits and purls lining up? The first thing I would check is that your stitch count is correct as this will determine how your stitches are lining up from row to row.
I hope this makes sense and let us know if you have any further questions!
Happy knitting,
Marilla
Has anyone shortened the width on this scarf for a toddler? How many stitches did you co? I’m new to knitting and wanted to make this scarf for my 2 year old but I know 39 stitches would be way too wide for her. Thanks!
Hello Anna,
Thank you for reaching out! I would reccomend a cast on of 23 stitches which will give you a 5″ width.
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
I love your site and patterns. I’ve made a number of scarves like this and they all turn out great. I’ve experimented with different yarns (fuzzy ones are fun!) and needle sizes. It’s hard to really mess this up. Love this pattern.
I’m making this scarf right now! I love it. I’m wondering if you think I could make a blanket with the same stitch.
Hello Merry,
Thank you for reaching out! You certainly could, you would just decide on a width and multiply that number by how many stitches per inch you are getting to figure out a good cast on number. You will just want to make sure that it is a multiple of 4 +3.
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
I love the pattern and knit a really cool scarf. Have you ever knit this pattern in the round, ie for a hat? I’m going to try to see if it will work, but if you’ve already figured it out, I’d appreciate hearing from you. thanks.
Hello Christie,
Thank you for reaching out! We don’t currently have a mistake rib hat, but you could use our Classic ribbed hat pattern as a guide. You will just need to change where your purls and knits line up from row to row.
I hope this helps and let us know how it goes!
-Marilla
Love this pattern
I just finished this scarf using Caron Chunky Cakes yarn. I love how the thickness of the yarn plus the pattern gave so much texture to the scarf. I will be starting a second scarf soon!
Hi,
Could you pleased let me know what the difference is between this pattern and the other mistake rib scarf you have? The Last 3stitches are different but otherwise is it the same?
Thanks
Sarah
Hello Sarah,
Thank you for reaching out! In our Mistake rib scarf we added a slip stitch selvedge for a nice neat edge.
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Enjoyed knitting the scarf. I used “I Love This Yarn, Print” and I’m very pleased……thank you for sharing…..
I really like this pattern and have made a number of scarves using it. Thanks to you!
Hello! I’m a fairly new knitter and will be trying this pattern out as a christmas gift. Wondering how to adjust for slightly chunkier yarn (#5). Would I cast on a different number of stitches? Use a different sized needle? Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Cynthia,
Thanks for reaching out! This pattern is written for a yarn that is approximately a #5 according to the Craft Yarn Council’s standard yarn weight system, so I don’t think you will have to make any changes to the pattern at all! Although I would recommend knitting a gauge swatch for a larger project to make sure your yarn substitution will work out, in the case of a relatively narrow scarf like this, you can just start the scarf and if you find that the stitches are too tight or the scarf is too wide after a few inches, it won’t be too much work to start over.
I hope that helps, and happy knitting!
Julianna
Thank you for your response, Julianna! I ended up purchasing size 9 needles since that is what was listed on the yarn I purchased. I’ll definitely knit a gauge swatch first as you recommended 🙂
Hello! Would you suggest blocking this piece to open up the rib a little? I am using a chunky alpaca yarn. Thank you!
Hi Lisha,
Great question! Yes, we do like the look of the Mistake Rib stitch after blocking! It isn’t necessary to block it aggressively, however – you can just soak the finished piece and gently lay it flat to dry!
Best,
Julianna
I bought the yarn I want already and it is worsted weight. I have three 150 meter/100 gram balls but I LOVE this pattern!! Any suggestions for alterations to make this work or should I buy new yarn?
Hi Lise,
Thanks for reaching out! This should be fairly easy to adjust to your yarn! I would suggest knitting a gauge swatch in pattern on the needle size recommended for your yarn. You can then multiply your stitches per inch by 8 inches and round to the nearest multiple of 4 plus 3 stitches to determine how many stitches to cast on!
Best,
Julianna
Hi Lisha,
I am really enjoying this pattern for a scarf. Do you have a pattern for a matching hat?
Thanks,
Marlene
Hi Marlene,
Thanks for reaching out! Unfortunately we don’t have a hat pattern in Mistake Rib; however, although the stitch patterns are a bit different, I think our Snow Day Hat would complement the scarf quite well!
Best,
Julianna
This scarf looks beautiful! Do you need to slip the first stitch at the beginning of each row? Thanks!
Hi Becca,
Thanks for writing in! We didn’t use a slip stitch edging on this scarf; however, if you want to add one, just make sure you add two stitches to the cast on so it doesn’t interfere with the stitch pattern!
Happy knitting!
Julianna
Hi,
I want to thank you for this easy to make yet gorgeous pattern scarf. I was skeptical about the pattern simply because I can’t picture it in my head, I am fairly new knitter as well. But once I started, I can see it in front me, I just fell in love with the design. Thank you.
So, my wife cut her hair super short during a mid-life crisis of sorts, and was initially feeling a little apprehensive about it, so I thought a home/hubby-made scarf to keep her neck warm this winter would be the perfect surprise for Christmas! Only problem was that I had never knit anything in my life, and I only had 4 weeks to get it done! The description of this scarf boosted my confidence, and I took the plunge. With the help of YouTube (man, some people can knit discouragingly fast!), I learned all sorts of things: how to read pattern descriptions and skein labels, picking the right yarn and needles, casting on, gauge, knitting versus purling, slipping the first stitch for selvedge edges (saw your other posting on the mulberry Mistake rib scarf), joining, binding off in pattern, weaving in, and blocking…oh my! Was I in over my head? After half a dozen attempts at a gauge swatch, I figured I was close enough to begin. Over the first 20 or so rows and a few more videos (thanks, Google), I learned that I was doing it way too tight and how to keep the edges from being too loose. I also figured out why I was periodically adding stitches, and occasionally losing a stitch (scary), how to effectively back out a row…and…that my scarf was WAY to wide–39 stitches of the super bulky lion head yarn resulted in a scarf that was going to be a foot wide! So I learned how to start over, and hoped my unlearned fingers would learn the motions and become more efficient (I play the piano, after all, but boy was I feeling clumsy with this!), because I had already calculated how long it was taking and I was barely going to make it by Christmas as it was! Casting on 31 stitches seemed more reasonable, and fortunately my fingers picked up the rhythm quick enough that I wasn’t too embarrassed to knit during my train commute–but this business suit-knitter did get a few strange looks from all the phone swipers, ha! My wife likes longer scarfs, so I used a full 4 skeins. The scarf ended up about 7″ wide and 100″ long after blocking–probably too long, but I’m confident I could shorten as desired with my new-found skills. Oh, there are a few mistakes if you look close enough, but this rib pattern does help conceal those. I’m proud of how it turned out! I’m already looking forward to another daintier scarf next year. Thanks!
Darren you sound like you’ve made incredible progress. I learned a lot from reading your post – there are many things in it that I need to check out on Youtube. Congratulations on your scarf – your wife is a very lucky duck, lovely to read how you helped her haircut crisis!
I plan to knit the “mistake rib scarf in rainbow colours for my grandson who lives in Weybridge. ( I am living in Cape Town South Africa where it is nearly impossible to get a choice of knitting patterns ) S o thank you very much for giving me access to your patterns, I hope the scarf keeps my grandson warm in chilly Sussex !
can you use a #4 yarn to make the easy mistake scarf
Hi Doris,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes, our Mistake Rib Scarf looks lovely in a wide variety of yarn weights! This version of the scarf is written for a bulky, or #5, yarn, so you will need to modify the cast on slightly. To do so, I would suggest knitting a gauge swatch in pattern using your yarn and a US 8 or 9 needle. You can then multiply your stitches per inch by 8 inches, or however wide you would like the scarf to be, and round to the nearest multiple of 4 plus 3 stitches.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
Hi,
I’m sorry if this is a silly question, but if I want the scarf to be wider, should I just cast on more stitches? Does it need to be a certain number more if so?
Hi Mariko,
Thanks for reaching out, and I don’t think it’s a silly question at all – one of the best thing about knitting is getting to customize the size of your items! For this pattern, you can cast on any multiple of 4 plus an extra 3 stitches.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
Hi – I want to make this wider as well. And maybe about 70 inches long. How do I figure out how much wool I will need?
Thank you
Hi Peggy Jo
Thanks for writing in! If you want the length to be around 70 inches, I would add another 150 yards. It’s a difficult for me to estimate the actual yardage without knowing the width you would like. If you wanted to make your total width around 12″ wide by 70″ it will take around 700 yards. I hope this helps!
Happy knitting
Jessica
Jessica,
Thank you for getting back to me so quickly. Sorry but I am a beginning knitter and realize I should have been more specific. So if I want this scarf to be 10 inches wide and 70 inches long, how much yarn should I buy in terms of skeins? I don’t really understand yards unless that is clearly marked on the packaging. Also- how many stitches would you suggest I cast on?
Thank you again.
Hi Peggy Jo
Thanks for giving me more specific measurements! If you cast on 47 stitches this should get you around 10″ if you are knitting at the correct gauge of 4.5 stitches per inch. It will take about 550 yards to knit to this measurement, which would be 10 skeins of Jade Sapphire 12 Ply. This will be gorgeous!
Best
Jessica
So sorry- final question. You told other knitters to make your amount of stitches cast on to be a multiple of 4 plus 3. 49 is not a multiple of 4 and neither is 46. So I’m confused. And if one side ends in a K stitch and the other a P stitch, won’t they look different?
Thank you, thank you for your patience.
Hi Peggy Jo
I’m so sorry, I must have been doing too much math yesterday! You are correct, it does need to be a multiple of 4+3. So I would cast on 47 stitches.
Thanks for catching that!
Best
Jessica
It happens to all of us! Thanks again.
I love this pattern and have been working in my first scarf with it! But I’m having some issues with length… I am making it for my dad as a gift, but I am not sure how long I should make it. I know that sometimes the yarn can stretch, so I’m scared of making it too long and it stretch too much or to make it too short and not stretch enough. What would the recommend size be? Thanks everybody!
Hi Cami,
Thank you for reaching out and asking about this! All knitting will stretch a little with wear, but most yarns will bounce back to shape every time the item is washed. It does depend a bit on what type of yarn you’re using – cashmere will stretch more than wool, for example. The Mistake Stitch scarf was knit to 48 inches long, which is a nice length for folding over (as shown in the second picture) and tucking into a coat or jacket. I hope this helps, and please let me know if you have any other questions!
Happy Knitting!
Cassandra
I’m really excited about completing this pattern.The jade sapphire 12 ply cashmere yarn is a little more than I want to spend on yarn. What would you suggest as a less expensive yarn that would also work for this pattern, and has the same gauge?
Hi Lauren
Thanks so much for reaching out! The Super Soft MerinoBig Good Wool
Awesome! Thank you so much.
Hi, I was wondering if this pattern will cause the edges of the scarf to curl inwards (like in a stockinette stitch scarf).
Hi Helen,
Thanks for reaching out! The stitch used here acts more like a rib stitch than stockinette so you don’t have to worry at all about curling edges!
Happy knitting!
Gianna
Begginer here, what do you mean by stitch in ends please
Hi Jane,
Thanks for writing in! Sewing in the ends is another way of saying to weave in the ends! If you need any assistance with this technique we have an excellent Weaving in Your Ends tutorial!
All the best,
Gianna
What would be a soft and comfy yarn to use instead of the yarn you used To expensive for me. Please recommend a yarn for me to use for the very pretty green tea scarf
Hi Carol,
Thanks for reaching out! You can use any bulky yarn for this scarf, I would recommend our Super Soft Merino, Lovebird or even Brooklyn Tweed Quarry!
All the best,
Gianna
Gianna Thank You for your recommendations
Hi! I’m a beginner, and planning on making this scarf, my yarn is size 6. What size needles should I use? Also, what does it mean to gauge the size?
Thank you!
Hi Mary,
Thanks for reaching out! A size 6 yarn is a super bulky yarn, so a US 11-17 needle could work! Our tutorial All About Gauge is an excellent resource to use and will walk you through the whole concept of gauging and how to do it!
All the best,
Gianna
Thank you, Gianna!! Happy New Year!
Hi, I’m a complete beginner so knitting patterns are completely new. When repeating the row, you start with 2 knit stitch, not one purl? I guess I’m a little confused that I’ll be putting a knit stitch over a purl?!? Thank you and sorry if I’m being a bit dim!
Hi Jen,
Thanks for reaching out! No worries! Since this is a “Mistake Stitch” pattern you are following the exact same K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1 pattern in order to get the “mistake” look, if you were to start then next row with a purl stitch instead, it would create a rib stitch pattern which would be a totally different look!
I hope this clarifies things, happy knitting!
Gianna
I am a beginner to knitting and I have a size 4 yarn. I am not sure what size needle I need. I only have size 6 and size 6.5 needles. Which would work best?
Hi Kristyna,
Thanks for reaching out! A size 4 yarn is comparable to a Worsted/Aran weight which typically calls for a US 7-9 needle. Are your needles in US sizing or mm? I believe they may be mm and in that case both sizes would be a bit too big for that yarn and would result in a very open fabric. I would suggest working a gauge swatch in the needles you have to see if you like how the fabric turns out and comparing your gauge to the written gauge of the pattern. You can then adjust the gauge and change needle size from there! Our tutorial All About Gauge is an excellent resource to use!
Warmly,
Gianna
Hi Julianna,
Is knitting dementia a term? I’m an eternal advanced beginner then took a break for last year or two and now that I picked it up I don’t know left from right. So this pattern, after you k2, p2 and last 3 do the k2, p1 but it looks a mess and nothing like any type of rib stitch I’ve done before. I’m 5 rows in…does it start to look like the scarf pictured?
Hi Barbara,
Thanks for reaching out! Since this is a “Mistake Stitch” patter it is a bit different than a rib stitch and wont look the same! Since you are K2, p2, repeat to last 3 stitches, k2, p1 and repeating this row for all of the rows the rib stitch will be offset each time giving you the mistake stitch! Once you work several rows the pattern will begin to emerge!
I hope this helps and please let me know if you have any more questions!
Warmly,
Gianna
Hi, I’ve been working on this scarf for a while and I love the way it looks – but increasingly as I go on I find that the first and last stitches in the row come out very loose, no matter how tight I pull them, and make the edges of my scarf look bumpy and untidy. I’m not sure if maybe I’m doing them wrong?
Any tips you can provide would be much appreciated!
Hi Jacqueline,
Thanks for reaching out! My best advice for keeping the edges tidy is to make sure that when you are knitting the first and last stitch to be extra careful not to overstretch the stitch below (that you are working into) no matter how tightly you pull the yarn if the stitch below is overstretched it will look a bit wonky. The good news is that you can also adjust this a bit when you block the finished scarf!
I hope this helps, happy knitting!
Gianna
Thanks so much Gianna 🙂 I’ve never blocked anything before but this will make a great piece to practice with!
I don’t understand why the last three stitches are k2 , p1. Wouldn’t you just end with two K stitches and then when you begin on the other side, start with two purls?
Hi Thorina,
Thanks for reaching out. The stitch pattern in this scarf is the Mistake Rib, which is a little different than a traditional rib stitch! The reason that there is a p1 at the end of the row is so that the stitches can become offset, creating the unique mistake rib pattern. Hope this clarifies things!
All the best,
Lili
I want to make this scarf for my 5-year-old grandson. Can you give me adjustments for child a size scarf, please?
Hi Jerri,
Thanks for reaching out. To make a smaller version of this scarf, you’ll need to change the number of stitches you cast on in order to make it narrower! To figure out your cast-on number, you will want to first knit a gauge swatch in pattern. Once you know how many stitches you are getting per inch, you can multiply that number by the width that you would like and cast on the nearest multiple of 4 + 3. Then you can follow the pattern as written until the scarf is as long as you want!
All the best,
Lili
I added a twist that I used on other patterns that keeps the sides tight. I slip the first stitch of each row purlwise and draw the yarn to the back. Knit the next stitch as usual and then P2 K2 like normal across the row ending with P1.
Hi Kathy,
Thanks for writing in! That’s a great tip and we really appreciate you sharing it!
Have a great rest of your day!
All the best,
Cat
Would your yarn Hedgerow work for this? What size needles would be needed? Thanks!
Hi Louise,
Thanks for reaching out. This pattern is super easy to modify, so Hedgerow will definitely work! We recommend using size US 6 or 7 needles for Hedgerow, but you could also use something slightly larger or smaller if you want. And since Hedgerow is a different weight from the original yarn used to design this scarf, you will likely need to adjust the number of stitches you cast on so that the scarf comes to the correct dimensions.
To figure out your cast-on number, you will want to first knit a gauge swatch in pattern (if this is daunting, we have a wonderful tutorial called All About Gauge). Once you know how many stitches you are getting per inch, you can multiply that number by the width (8 inches, or your preferred width) cast on the nearest multiple of 4 + 3 stitches. Then you can follow the pattern as written!
All the best,
Lili
Is there a link to purchase this yarn? It doesn’t come up in a search:
Jade Sapphire’s 12-ply Cashmere. We used the color Green Tea.
Hi Louise,
We’re not carrying this yarn anymore, so it’s no longer available on our website! It sounds like you were interested in using Hedgerow though, which will definitely work.
All the best,
Lili
Thanks so much Lili!
Is there a yarn closer to Jade Sapphire’s Green Tea?
Thanks again!!
Hi Louise,
Are you interested in a yarn that’s closer to Jade Sapphire 12-Ply in terms of yarn weight or fiber content? Or were you looking for a similar color to Green Tea?
In terms of both weight and fiber content, Plenty is the closest match. Plenty is a heavy worsted weight 100% merino yarn, and this merino wool in particular is just as soft (if not softer) than cashmere!
In terms of weight and color though, Campo is the closest match. Campo is also a heavy worsted weight yarn, and the color I’d recommend is Eucalyptus Green. This yarn is made from a blend of wool and cotton, so it has a very different texture, but it’s also very soft regardless!
All the best,
Lili
Thanks Lili! Do you think I could use one of the 2 you’ve mentioned without first doing the gauge? Thanks for your time! I am leaning to the Campo. Louise
Hi Louise,
We always recommend knitting up a gauge swatch before beginning, no matter what yarn you use! That’s because every knitter has a slightly different natural tension, so there’s always a chance you’ll need to adjust your needle size.
That being said, since this is a simple project with a small cast-on number, you could always just go ahead and start right away, keeping in mind that you may need to start over if the scarf isn’t the width that you’re aiming for. It’ll be a bit of trial and error this way!
All the best,
Lili
Hi,
What other weight of yarn can you use besides cashmere yarn for this scarf?
Hi Kathy,
This scarf is a great one to knit with almost any yarn weight or fiber content! The stitch pattern is super adaptable, so all you need to do if you’re planning to use a different yarn is adjust your stitch count so that it comes to the correct width.
To figure out your new cast-on number, you will want to first knit a gauge swatch in pattern. Once you know how many stitches you are getting per inch, you can multiply that number by the width that you would like and cast on the nearest multiple of 4 + 3 stitches. Then you can follow the pattern as written!
All the best,
Lili
Hi, I’m knitting this scarf and have enough yarn to make a matching hat. Would I just cast on maybe 59 stitches and knit in the round?
Hi Nadine,
Thank you for your question! I’m afraid it’s hard to give an estimate on how many stitches to cast on without a yarn, gauge and pattern in mind. I would recommend checking out our hat patterns that use a similar weight to what you are using for your project!
All the best,
Gavriella