Men’s Mini Herringbone Scarf
I have accumulated quite a bit of neckwear over the years. Some bright, some bulky, some sleek, lots ecru, but hands-down, what earns me the most compliments is my Big Herringbone Cowl, scooped off these pages of the Purl Bee!
It is undeniably wonderful. After making one for myself, I was hooked on herringbone. It creates a flat, woven-like fabric on one side while remaining quite lofty and full on the other. It has a fascinating texture with a hypnotizing rhythm, and its drape is just beautiful. Considering this unique combination of characteristics, I had to have more herringbone!
My scarf counterpart to Whitney’s cowl showcases a mini-herringbone pattern, bordered by slip stitch rib edges. To highlight the timelessness of herringbone, I knit this scarf with Swan’s Island Worsted, a sumptuously soft organic wool inspired by the rugged traditions of coastal knitting. I hope you find this pattern as classic and handsome as Whitney’s cowl is modern and chic!
If you love the yarn used in this project, you’ll love all of our other yarn, too! Explore our 35+ lovingly created yarn collections, in nearly every natural fiber and spectacular color you can imagine… Only available here at Purl Soho’s online yarn shop!
Update: New Yarn
October 27, 2017
A little bit bigger than our original version, this one also gets a yarn update. We knit it up in our unspeakably soft Understory, a baby alpaca, baby yak and silk blend, here in the rich and juicy color Ripe Plum. It also has new selvage stitches, as well as an accompanying all-new Mini Herringbone video tutorial that shows you how it’s done!
Designed by Purl Soho designer, Laura Ferguson.
Share your progress and connect with the community by tagging your pics with #PurlSoho, #PurlSohoBusyHands, #PurlSohoMensMiniHerringboneCowl. We can’t wait to see what you make!
Materials
- 2 skeins of Swan’s Island’s Worsted. Each skein is 250 yards/ 100 grams; approximately 500 yards required. I used the color Oatmeal.
- US 10 (6 mm), straight or circular needles
Shop our wonderful collection of aran + worsted-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
30 stitches = 4 inches in stitch pattern
Size
Finished Dimensions: 7½ inches wide x 62 inches long
Notes
Slipped Stitches
All slipped stitches are to be slipped purl-wise.
Mini Herringbone Stitch
For more help with this stitch pattern, check out our video tutorial, above!
Pattern
Cast on 55 stitches. We used a basic Long Tail Cast On.
Row 1 (wrong side): Slip 1 wyif (with yarn in front), p1, k1, * p2tog and leave stitches on needle, purl the first stitch again and drop both stitches together from left-hand needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p1, k1, p2.
Row 2: Slip 1 wyib (with yarn in back), k1, p1, * slip 1 with yarn in back, k1, then with left-hand needle raise up the slipped stitch as if to bind off but before dropping off right-hand needle, knit it and then drop from needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k1, p1, k2.
Repeat Rows 1 and 2 row until scarf measures approximately 61 1/2 inches or until desired length. Repeat Row 1 once more.Bind off in pattern with RS facing. To do that… once you have bound off the three selvage stitches and are working the Mini-Herringbone stitch pattern, instead of knitting the slipped stitch as you slip it up and off the right-hand needle, as you have done previously, just drop the slipped stitch of the right-hand needle without knitting it.
Here is a video that goes through the bind off step by step…
Weave in your ends and block if desired.
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!
Love the look of the scarf and the border is a very nice touch
It looks terrific!
I would love to add it to my Ravelry queue, but I cannot find a Ravelry entry for this pattern.
Is there one?
First of all, this is BEAUTIFUL! Thank you so much for sharing.
Second, doesn't this version (with the border) need to be worked over an even number of stitches? In essence you're adding 6 stitches to the mini herringbone basic stitch, but you're also taking away the purl and knit stitches at the very end of each row. All I know for sure though, is that I tried it with 55 and ended up with 4 stitches left on my left needle, not three. Help?
Pattern row two is missing an asterisk. Where does it go?
Hi Bummble, Great question! I added it to Ravelry yesterday morning. Are you still having a hard time finding it? Let us know!! Thanks, Laura
Diane. THANK YOU. I just added the asterisk. Thank you, thank you, thank you! –Laura
Hi Allison, Thank you for the kind words. As for the pattern… the Herringbone portion of the scarf is (and needs to be) worked over an odd number of stitches! Each Slip-Stitch Rib requires 3 stitches. So, 3 for the rib + 49 for the Mini Herringbone + 3 for the second rib = 55. Does this help? Please let me know if you are still stumped! Thanks for writing in. –Laura
What a lovely pattern. The scarf looks so cozy. I will secretly try to make one for my husband!
Please disregard my totally mistaken previous message, sometimes I'm really too silly. Best wishes Rae
I love this version of the herringbone! It's so beautiful! I'm in the middle of another project but I had to break off to make a guage just to make sure I was doing it correctly! The only questions that I have now are where does one go to sort it out when one has dropped a stitch! 😀 and how I can work out reducing it if I want to the stitch for something else. THank you again!
Hi Slang, Thanks for writing in. When I am knitting an unfamiliar pattern and ma confused as to how to un-do a mistake or pick up a dropped stitch, usually, very carefully, I pull a few stitches out very slowly, watching how the stitches interact with one another. After studying this, I can usually see the rhythm of the stitch pattern and find a spot to pick back up. Hope this helps! -Laura
Where can I go for some videos or tutorials on using this pattern? I tried to follow this to the best of my ability, but my scarf doesn't look right! Thanks! PS – This is beautiful and I can't wait to wear it when I'm done!
Hi Nicole-
Unfortunately there aren't any videos that we know of that use this pattern. Is there something specifically that you're having trouble with? Please let us know!
Thank you!
Molly
Hi!
I love this scarf! Beautiful!
I always have such a hard time figuring out yarn substitutions. I have some Savannah DK and wonder if it can be subbed for the worsted you used here. It looks to be a bit lighter weight. And it recommends using a smaller needle size. So, would I want to use the smaller needle size and add stitches? I always end up confusing my self! Any help you could give would be so appreciated! Thanks!
Kelley
Margaret… thanks for including the link. Your stitches look great. Keep it up and let us know how you like the Big Herringbone Cowl when you get to it. -Laura
Would it be absolutely crazy of me to try to convert this pattern into a baby blanket?? I love the pattern and the drape so much. Thanks for you your input! *K
Kelli… it would be amazing if you converted this into a baby blanket. It would be so cozy and beautiful. You could go up in yarn weight/needles to make it a little less time consuming. Please please lets us know how it goes! -Laura
This scarf looks wonderful and I am planning to knit it for my father to give him when I visit at Christmas in the UK (I live in Australia). Quick question – do you by any chance have a pattern for a matching hat or beanie?
Hey Tracy. So glad you like the pattern. And thanks for writing in. We do not currently have a pattern for a matching hat or beanie, but what a great idea! -Laura
hello!
thank you very much for sharing this pattern….i really love it…
i'm trying working on it but the problem is when i finished several rows e.g. <10 rows...it seems like the scraft is mis.shaped...it looks like in rhombus shape...instead of normal square...i did re-do it several times...but still have this problem...i feel like the middle of the scarf is too tight while the other two sides are loose...is this the reason? i'm looking forward to re-do it again by knitting it tighter at the beginning and in the end while knitting loosely in the middle. Not sure that i can fix it!
Hi Chano.
I am sorry you've had to start and re-start so many times. I am not sure why the scarf is slanting to one side. Sometimes, with certain stitch patterns, I have this issue. Usually it is just slight and after blocking the finished pieces, all is resolved. I am not sure that trying to adjust your tension is going to fix the problem. We knit how we knit and the best thing to do is be consistant.
Sorry to not be more help.
Let me know if you have better luck next time.
Laura
hi,
i've tried 25 stitches with a new yarn and it works!
Gonna try 55 stitches tonight 🙂
thanks
Chano
Hello,
I'm working on the herringbone cowl now; I love it! I love this too! I think I will knit it after the cowl. Do you have any other yarn recommendations that could substitute for swan's island? Thanks for sharing all of these gorgeous patterns!
Olivia
I'm new to knitting, and I'm wondering about the border pattern. Do I pass the yarn behind the needles before I knit for the (S1, P1, K1)?
Hi Cori,
Great questions. On the wrong side, hold the yarn in the front while you slip the first stitch purl-wise, keep your yarn in the front to purl the following stitch, then take the yarn to the back to knit the next stitch.
On the right side, hold the yarn in the back while you slip the first stitch purl-wise, keep the yarn in the back to knit the following stitch, then bring it to the front to purl the next stitch.
Hope this helps!
Laura
Thank you, Laura!
My border is a little loose (any tips for making it look great like yours?), but it's definitely the right stitch now.
Hi Cori.
So glad it's working.
As for the loose edge… Make sure to maintain a taut working yarn when you are slipping that first stitch.
Hope that helps. Thanks for writing in.
Laura
Hello,
I absolutely love the pattern! I got pretty far in the knitting so far, however I accidentally slipped and it ruined the stitch. Now I'm not sure how to fix it. I'm not sure how to unravel it. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you!
Hi Shirley,
My best advice for this, and it goes for all stitch patterns, is to slide your needles out. Pull your working yarn slowly and carefully study how the stitches pull out. This will help you understand how to pick them back up. I know this is kind of vague, but hopefully it helps.
Laura
Thank you so much for sharing the pattern I made this scarf as a birthday present out of cashmere wool and it came out beautifully!
I just love this scarf pattern. And, now that I have the yarn on the needles .. I love it even more! Thank you so much. I am making two for Christmas gifts .. I'm sure the recipients will be pleased. I'm using the yarn you recommended .. one in Seasmoke and the other in Shale .. it knits up beautifully. Again, thank you for posting this pattern.
Can you confirm for me, in the instruction as below, work in Mini Herringbone to last 3 stitches, k1, p2
Row 1 (WS): Sl1 wyif, p1, k1, work in Mini Herringbone to last 3 stitches, k1, p2
but when you go to the Mini Herringbone instructions, says repeat pattern to the last stitch then p1
So really you would repeat until last 4 stitches so you could p1, then k1, p2
same for row 2
Hi Susan,
The last stitch of the Mini Herringbone stitch is p1. Then you work the last three stitches: k1, p2. The last three stitches create the edge detail.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Laura
I am a little confused Purl Bee 🙂 new to knitting (jus finished my first project 🙂 after the first * on ws do I purl one each time I finish herringbone stitch pattern? I guess same ? for ws, one knit stitch after each herringbone pattern? This is like learning new language! 🙂 any suggestions for a scarf for a eight year old girl? Sorry so many ?'s.
Connie
Hi, I',m also new to knitting but this seems to be a good next step into starting something more challenging. There are some questions that keep nagging at me before I start it and mess it up again.
For the WS rows, once I finish S1 P1 K1 then go into the repeating P2tog.. I noticed the yarn is in the back because of the K1. Should I turn it over to the front for *P2tog? I've only done stockinette stitch and ribbed scarves so far so I wasn't sure if turning the yarn over for any type of purl stitch is implied knowledge and what all knitters should do..
Hi Karen. Welcome to knitting! Hope you're loving it.
After you Sl1, P1, K1, then you should bring your yarn between your needles to the front of your work in order to being the Mini Herringbone Pattern, just as you did between the P1 and K1 at the beginning of the row .When you say 'turn your yarn over' I am assuming you mean bring it to the front or to the back. Do not turn your work, however, until you have reached the end of the row.
Please please please let me know if you have any questions at all. This isn't a hard pattern, but it is a leap from stockinette and ribbing. I'm very impressed!
Laura
Help….I just can't seem to “get” the right side of the mini herringbone. I don't understand what or how you “lift” the slip stitch and then knit it. Could you explain it in different words. I've made the herringbone cowl with no issues, but this mini herringbone is not getting through my brain.
I'm attempting to start this scarf but I keep goofing on the RS because when I try to knit into the slipped stitch, I find that the yarn gets very tight and hard to maneuver. Should I be knitting into the same stitch every time? Am I over thinking the pattern or doing something wrong?
Hello,
I really love this scarf and want to knit it for my boyfriend, but I do have a question.
I am using 100% merino wool yarn for needles 6-7mm. I made swatches with both 8 and 9mm and cannot decide which is better. I know that you are supposed to use one needle up (so the 8mm needle), but the swatch feels rather stiff. The 9mm swatch seems more soft and fluffy, but a bit loose. Your version of this scarf seems so soft and the drape looks amazing, I am just afraid that when I use the 8mm needles, the drape will be not nice.
What do you recommend? I am turning my family crazy trying to get their opinion 🙂
Hi there, this pattern is beautiful! I want to make a lap blanket using this pattern. How many stitches I need for the herringbone? I'll then cast on a multiple of ? + 6. Hope I'm making sense :). Thanks again!
Hi Meems-
All you need to do is cast on an uneven number of stitches. You can make is as large or small as you want!
Thank you!
Molly
Hi Noelle.
Sorry you are struggling with the pattern. With this stitch, sometimes it is helpful to go up a needle size, which should relieve some of the tautness. Also, sometimes it just takes a few rows to get the rhythm. Has it gotten any easier? Let me know if I can help more.
Thanks for writing in,
Laura
Hi Carolyn,
Slip one stitch, then knit the next stitch. Now look at your right-hand needle, slip the tip of the left-hand needle purl-wise into the stitch farthest right on the right-hand needle. Lift it up as if to slip it off the needle, but just before you slip it off, knit it.
I hope this helps.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Laura
Hi Laura,
thanks for that last explanation of the RS stitches.
When you say “Lift it up as if to slip it off the needle, but just before you slip it off, knit it.”
I'm wondering whether you knit it purl-wise or if you end up getting a “twisted” knitted stitch..?
(sorry if it doesnt make sense..)
Greetings from Norway
Hi Marit.
Your question totally makes sense! And ask as many as you have. That's why we're here. So. When you are grabbing that slipped stitch with the left-hand needle, insert the left-hand needle into the front of the slipped stitch. That way it won't be twisted when you knit it. Let me know if this helps or not.
Laura
Hi SinFan.
I know what you mean about driving our family crazy. Sometimes it's just so hard to decide. I tend to like my knits a bit tighter than other people do. Whitney (of Whit's Knits) is always suggesting I go up a needle size). If you feel the larger needle creates a fabric with holes then perhaps go with the smaller size needle. Knits tend to bloom and grow a bit once worn, so the scarf with drap more and more with wear. Does this help?
Hope it turns out to your liking!
Laura
Hi,
I really want to make this scarf, it's beautiful, but I just don't see the same pattern coming through on mine, as the images you've provided. I have no idea where I'm going wrong! I feel that I'm stitching a completely different pattern by accident Is there somewhere I could upload a close up photo? I'm wondering if it's the yarn I've chosen to test with or if I'm reading an instruction wrong… feeling a little disappointed 🙁
thanks!
Hello Lindsay.
I am sorry you are disappointed. I am not sure which step of the pattern is causing the problem. Is your yarn machine spun? Hand spun yarns look quite different in this stitch. Is your gauge correct? When knit loose, the fabric can have gaps or holes. I do not have more zoomed in image.
Please let me know if I can help you out in any other way.
Laura
I have been looking for a classic pattern to knit a scarf for my brother. What I am really looking for is a pattern for a scarf he can wear with his winter dress coat. He is really not the outdoor, chunky scarf kind of guy. I want to do this in a kind of cashmere, silk blend yarn. Before I buy this yarn, I need some guidance in figuring out how much I should buy. I know I have to change needle size not to get guage but to get the fabric I am looking for. I also need to change number of stitches cast on. I need a scarf about 5" wide. How do I take this info and determine the amount of yarn I need?
Hi Abigail.
Let me see if I can help. Those are a lot of changing factors so what I am about to say is just an estimation.
1. You will cast on an odd number plus 6 (3 stitches worked at each side, which will add about about a 1/4 to 1/2 inch to your total width).
2. This scarf is 7 1/2 inches wide. If you wanted it 5 inches wide, that's 1/3 less. This scarf used approximately 500 yards… you were were knitting at the same gauge, you would need 300 yards. If you go with a thinner yarn, you will need more, thicker yarn, less.
As for yarn substitutions… Jade Sapphire's 6-ply cashmere would be a wonderful sub (but of course it does not have silk in it). Another sub would be Manos' Silk Merino Blend (but it is hand-spun and might not be as refined looking as you'd like). Both would require a slight needle change, but you could figure that out when swatching.
Abigail, if you swatch or pick a yarn and have more questions, please let me know. What a lucky brother you have to have a generous, knitting sister!
Laura
hey! i'm a little confused about what you mean with the "with yarn in the back" and "with yarn in the front" if its purled, wouldn't i assume the yarn will always be at the back? i'm pretty new at this btw 🙂 thanks!
Hi Sylvia.
When purling, the yarn is typically held in the front. When knitting the yarn is typically held int he back.
Above you are to slip a stitch at the beginning of each round. On the right side you slip it with the yarn in back because the next stitch is a knit and so the yarn in then in the right place. Same thing goes for the back, you slip with the yarn in front so that the yarn is ready for the following purl stitch.
Does that help?!?!
Laura
Please can you send some photos because I can't understand the pattern and is so pretty
I'd love to wear a scarf like yours, is beautiful, I'll apreciate so much thanks
Hi,
Thank you for your beautiful pattern and wonderful help. Extremely hot summer here California, its perfect to stay indoors and knit.
Is there any yarn in Blue Sky Alpacas I can use as substitutes? I love their suri merino, royal and worsted hand dyes.
meadow
Hi Alicia,
Unfortunately we do not have any additional photos of this stitch at the moment. Is ther a particular portion of that pattern you have having a hard time with, perhaps I could help walk you through it. Please let me know if I can help.
Laura
Hi Meadow,
The beauty of this pattern is that once you find a yarn you love and pair it with the appropriate needle that give it a nice drape (usually about 2 sizes up from what is recommended) it can be easily adjusted. After swatching, just be sure to cast on an odd number to reach the width you desire.
The Suri Merino, Royal and Worsted Hand Dyes would all work. The Suri is thicker than the yarn I used, and has more of a bloom to it, but would probably be the best match of the yarns you're asking about. The Royal would be gorgeous; it's such a luxurious yarn, but is incredibly thin compared to what I used. The Royal doubled, would be lovely tho. The Worsted Hand Dyes might be a little too thick and stiff for this scarf. It already comes out fairly dense if you don't use the right needles, and the cotton is a bit less forgiving than the animal fibers.
I hope this helps. Please let us (and our other reader) know how it goes.
Laura
Hi Laura,
Thank you for your prompt and thorough answer. Now I think before I go for different yarns, I should choose the same yarn you use for this incredibly handsome scarf, so that I can be sure I reach the same effects. This scarf will be for my sister, I think natural/white will be lovely. Thanks again.
Meadow
Hi Laura,
I got Swans Island worsted Seasmoke, its such a beautiful yarn and I cant wait to start. I knitted a few rows this weekend, the right side looks the same as your picture, but the wrong side is totally different. Are they supposed to be the same, or similar? I saw your big herringbone cowl, two sides are different but the wrong side has herringbone pattern also. My mini herringbones wrong side almost looks like a basket weave. Thanks.
meadow
Hi Laura,
Good news! I started over and knitted a 10×10 swatch, the right side looks exactly like your picture and its beautiful. I am going to officially start the scarf this weekend. Thank you!
meadow
Meadow,
I'm so sorry you figured it out before I could get back to you.
I'm so happy you figured it out.
Hope you love the scarf. Please let me know if you have any questions on this project.
Best,
Laura
Hi. I am struggling with the bind off. My scarf came out really beautiful, thank you for the pattern. But please can unexplain the bind off a little more.
Hi Aisha,
I will gladly expand on the bind off! Bind the first three stitches off in pattern. You will bind off the first two stitches in knit and the third stitch in purl, from there, you continue in pattern, so, you will slip one, then knit one, bind off that slipped stitch, but rather than knitting it, as you have done in the previous RS rows, you will just drop it off the needle. Continue binding off in pattern, the last three will be bound off in purl, knit and knit. Does this help at all? Please write back if you want further help!
Thanks for writing in.
Laura
Hello,
I love the look of this scarf, especially the slip stitch rib border!
I am planning on knitting this in the round, would the instructions change at all?
Hello! I'm not sure if anyone has asked this yet.. but would knitting this project with Swan's Island bulky, in stead of worsted, pose any problems?
Thanks!
Hi Allie.
I do not believe anyone has asked that question. It's a great one. I think this scarf would be lovely in Swan's Island's Bulky.
For the original, I used a US10 on a yarn that typically suggests a US7 or US9. So for Swan's Bulky, which recommends a US10.5, I would try this stitch pattern on a US11 or US12. Definitely swatch first thought. This is a very dense stitch, so be sure to go up enough needle sizes so that the resulting fabric is drappey enough for a scarf.
Laura
Thank you for this beautiful pattern. I have been knitting for over sixty years and never attempted a herringbone scarf. I have an issue with slanting. I was very excited to start this project, however after many starts and restarts I am confused as to why after 6 inches into it, it still slants. The pattern is consistent and clean looking, but wondering if there is something I'm missing. I know the recipient will not keep it blocked, so I'm trying to avoid that. I hope you can help
Hello Kay.
Thank you for writing in and I am so sorry this stitch is giving you a hard time. I do not know why it would be slanting. My best guess is that you work your knit side and purl side with a different tension that is not equally counter balancing one another, so the fabric is tending to one direction.
I know a few other people have had an issue with slanting as well. I experience such a minimal amount and I am unfortunately at a bit of a loss as to how to direct you in fixing it.
Laura
I absolutely love the mini herringbone stitch. Would it be possible to make a video and post on your site? It would make it easier. Please also do in Continental style.
HI Devorah-
Thanks for the suggestion. We'll keep it in mind going forward.
Molly
If I were to use this yarn and needle size for the herringbone cowl, will the cowl have the same drape as using the yarn in the cowl pattern?
Hello Im,
This scarf is worked in Swan's Island's Worsted and it's a lovely yarn, a very soft merino. The Herringbone Cowl is knit with Blue Sky's Worsted which is an alpaca / merino blend. Alpaca is a heavier fiber than sheep's wool and therefore has a bit more drape. All that to say, Swan's Island's Worsted is not going to have quite the dense drape that the Herringbone Cowl has.
Another note: Blue Sky's Worsted (used for the cowl) is much thicker than Swan's Island's Worsted which is on the lighter end of the worsted weight spectrum. So the gauge will be quite different and the cast on would need to be adjusted.
Do hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any other questions!
Laura
Hi, just tried this and after dropping a few stitches decided to use lifelines. It's a very difficult stitch to unravel. Just feed a scrap piece of yarn through your loops every 10 rows or so and it will be easy to rip back if needed. 😉
I love this pattern! Could you possibly recommend a slightly less expensive yarn you carry that may work well for this scarf as well?
Thanks SO much!!
Janice
Hi! I love this pattern so much and after trying it out a few times have gotten the hang of it!
I'm almost done with my first skein of yarn and was wondering, how would you recommend joining the yarn for this scarf? My first attempt was not very elegant-looking.
Thank you!!
Hi – First let me say that I LOVE this pattern! I'm planning to make it for my dad for Christmas 🙂 Quick question – I cast on 55 stitches. Then, row 1 says to Sl1, p1, k1, and then work the herringbone pattern (which is in increments of two stitches) to the last three stitches and then k1, p2. Ive done this twice now, and each time, I end up with 2 stitches at the end of the row, not 3. Doesn't slipping one stitch, knitting one and then purling one leave you with 52 stitches on your left needle – so 24 repeats of the herringbone pattern with 2 stitches left over? What am I doing wrong? Thank you!!!
Hi Mariya,
I'm glad to hear you are enjoying the stitch.
I believe I joined at the edge, I slipped the first stitch and then began with the new skein. And then wove the ends in later, hiding it in the selvedge stitches.
How did you join initially? Did you work a couple stitches with the end of the 1st and beginning of the 2nd skein held together? It's a pretty dense stitch, so that method might be a bit uncomfortable.
Laura
Hi Laura!
I ran out of yarn in the middle of a row so I think I started the next skein by working it into the next stitch. It didn't work so well for this pattern though.
Thank you so much for your recommendation, I will definitely try it out!
-Mariya
Hi Carol.
Glad you like the scarf!
Mini Herringbone is worked in increments of 2 and then there is one single stitch at the end, a p1 on the WS and a k1 on the RS. What I think is happening is that you are missing that p1 at the end of the Mini Herringbone pattern on the wrong side. You should be working in increments of 2 until the last 4 stitches, work the final stitch of Mini Herringbone and then the 3 selvedge stitches. It might be helpful to place a marker before those last three selvedge stitches, because it sounds like you are working them in Mini Herringbone by mistake.
Please let me know if you have more questions on this!
Laura
Hello,
I have a question about this step of the instructions: P2tog and leave stitches on needle, purl the first stitch again and drop both stitches together from left-hand needle. When you "purl the first stitch again", are you referring to the stitch on the top or bottom as the first?
Thanks so much for your help!!
Hi Joanna,
Ok, so first stick your right needle into the first two stitches on your left needle, purlwise, from back to front. Loop your working yarn around your right needly and pull the loop through the two stitches on the left needle, but don't drop those stitches off your left needle. Now, place your right needle into the first stitch on your left needle purlwise, just as you would normally purl a stitch if told to p1. That first stitch is the one closest to the tip of the left needle. After you purl it, then you can drop those two stitches off that left needle.
Hope this helps. Please write us anytime!
Laura
I love this pattern. I'm still confused on the mh (mini herringbone) stitch for the ws. How can I purl the last stitch in mh, and then do mh to last 3 stitches in row 1? Seems like I have to do one or the other. Or, do I do mh to last 4 stitches, p1, then k1, p2??
If I work first and last 3 stitches apart from mh, and mh pattern is worked with 2 stitches, dropping them both every time, I just can't figure out where that "purl the last stitch" comes in.
I know you've probably already answered this, but still not following. Sorry.
And thanks!
Hello Vonda.
If you take the selvedge stitches and the Mini Herringbone stitch pattern and combine them into 2 rows of instructions, this is what it would be…
Row 1 (WS): Sl1 wyif, p1, k1, * P2tog and leave stitches on needle, purl the first stitch again and drop both stitches together from left-hand needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p1, k1, p2
Row 2 (RS): Sl1 wyib, k1, p1, *Slip 1 with yarn in back, k1, then with left-hand needle raise up the slipped stitch as if to bind off but before dropping off right-hand needle, knit it and then drop from needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k1, p1, k2
I hope this helps.
Laura
Love this.
How do I work the edge
thank you
Hi Cheryl,
The edge or selvedge stitches are worked row by row along with the Mini Herringbone stitches. (It is not created after, which is what a lot of people thing upon first glance.) They are the first three and last three stitches of each row of instruction.
Thanks,
Laura
Hi Laura,
Can I substitute the yarn you suggested with Lion Brand's Fisherman's Wool? Please let me know when you get a chance. Thank you!
illi
Hi Illi.
You definitely can! It looks to be a bit thicker than Swan's Island's Worsted which is actually quite light for a worsted-weight yarn. Just be sure to make a swatch before casting on for the scarf. This Scarf tends to knit up on the dense side, so you'll probably want to go up a needle or two larger than what is recommended. Lion Brand recommends a US9, so maybe a 10 or 10.5?
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Laura
Hi Laura. I seemed to have gone from 55 to 53 stitches somehow. Is there a way you recommend to get the two stitches back??
Hello Helen,
Oh goodness. My first recommendation is to pull out the scarf to the error(s).
My second recommendation would be to increase on the right side, in the purl stitches, between the stitch pattern and the selvedge stitches.
The goal is to recover, but also to interrupt the fabric as little as possible. This might mean leaving it alone. It depends on how perfect you'd like your final product.
Laura
Can you make a video for this beautiful scarf?
Hi Von-
Thank you for the suggestion! We don't currently have plans to do a video on this stitch pattern but we will certainly keep it in mind going forward!
If you have an specific questions we'd be happy to answer them here in the comments section.
Thank you!
Molly
I love this pattern, do you think it would translate well to stripes? I am envisioning big stripes like the amazing seed stitch wrap.
***Please Help!!!***
I've made a mistake on my mini herringbone scarf that has taken me foreverrrrr to knit (as a Christmas present for my Dad, mind you)……And I don't know how to rip it out! I'm getting really really discouraged and heartbroken…. 🙁
Can I rescue it? Can you tell me how?
Thank you so much!
-Pia-
Hello PiaLuna,
Do not fret. My best suggestion is to take your work off the needles and slowly start pulling the stitches out. Watch very closely to see how the working yarn and stitches all interact (how each stitch is built). After watching a few rows slowly, it should be easy to pull down as far as you need, past your mistake, and then run your needle through the live stitches.
I do hope this helps. If you have worked a large portion of this piece already (and it sounds like you have) you should be able to recognize if you have picked your stitches up correctly or not.
Laura
Hi Cynthia.
I bet this stitch pattern would be really interesting in large color blocks or thick stripes. Let us know how it goes!
Laura
Hello Laura – love this pattern. A bit difficult to correct if you make a mistake. Was trying to adapt a favorite hat pattern I have to this stitch. If I did this stitch in the round, without the borders, I would need an even number of stitches and would only do the RS rows, correct?
I used this pattern idea to create a set of boot cuffs! AWESOME! Thank you so much for your wonderful and inspirational projects! I have made several items from baby to adult from your ideas on here and they have been lovely lovely gifts!
Purl Bee usually has lovely photo illustrations of any special techniques required for a stitch pattern.
I'm having trouble with the components of this stitch pattern, especially on the RS row, knitting the stitch being passed over. I saw a video of this on the internet, but the cloth that resulted from the way she was doing it did not resemble your lovely scarf, and I'm confused.
Any chance you could include a photo or video of this stitch?
Hi TrueFeather77.
Thank you for writing in. We do always aim to communicate our patterns as clearly as possible. Adding photos to this pattern is now on our "To Do" list. We have lots of stuff in the works, so I am not sure when I will get them posted, but I will try to do it as soon as possible.
In the mean time, is there any way I can talk or write you through the issue you have with the RS row? I believe I know what step you are referring to… pretend you have picked up a stitch with the tip of your left needle as if you were going to bind off… just before you left that stitch drop off the right hand needle, take your working yarn and wrap it around your right needle and then let the stitch drop off and pull the working yarn through. Does this help at all?
We're here if you have more questions!
Laura
Lovely pattern! I used a merino and cashmere blend to knit it and because my husband likes his scarves extra long it took me ages! I loosely blocked the scarf (nearly ran out of floorspace!) and let it dry but it seems to be curling inwards on the ws on both long side. Should I block it again, more tightly this time? Help!
Hi Sara.
What a lucky husband. I'd love an extra long, cashmere blend version of this scarf! I can't believe it's curing up, especially after blocking. I experienced a tiny bit or curling, but steam blocking it relaxed the yarn and stitches and the curling stopped. I would definitely try blocking it once more. And with the wrong side facing up.
Let us know if it works. I'm quite puzzled by this.
Laura
The stitch pattern instruction is WS: do the HB stitch until last stitch, p1.
The scarf pattern is: WS: p to last THREE sts,k1, p2. How do I handle this?
Thanks.
Kmbold
Hi Kmbold,
Thanks for writing in. The first and last 3 stitches of each row are selvedge stitches. On the right side you slip 1, k1, p1 to start the row and you end the row with p1, k2. On the wrong side, you slip 1, p1, k1 to start the row and you end with k1, p2.
Between the selvedge stitches, you work the Mini Herringbone Pattern. So that means you…
Row 1 (WS): Sl1 wyif, p1, k1, * P2tog and leave stitches on needle, purl the first stitch again and drop both stitches together from left-hand needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p1, k1, p2
Row 2 (RS): Sl1 wyib, k1, p1, *Slip 1 with yarn in back, k1, then with left-hand needle raise up the slipped stitch as if to bind off but before dropping off right-hand needle, knit it and then drop from needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k1, p1, k2
I hope this helps clear things up! Please let me know if you have any questions!
Laura
Thank you so much for your explanation Laura! I was searching for the edge variants of this pattern as it not looks accurate on edges itself and I have found your variant and it looks perfect!
Thanks for clarifying! Moving on from basic knit and purl stitches here so I was a bit confused. Rolling along fine now with this explanation.
Thank goodness I scrolled into the comments – I started this scarf and ripped it out 3 times before doing so because I kept ending up with 4 stitches left instead of 3 as it says you should have in the pattern above. All good now though!
Hi Laura,
Since you’ve explained the correct way to do this here, could you correct the pattern above? It still says “to the last 3 stitches” and that is very confusing to new comers!
Thank you
Hi Caiti,
Thanks for writing us! Both ways are correct, but it seems the explanation in the comments is more popular. We will consider replacing it in the future! Thanks again for the heads up!
Best,
Adam
Help! On the WS, I end with 3 stitches but on RS I end with 4! What am I going wrong? This is the 4th time I’m trying. Thanks.
Hi Shaznin,
Thanks for the question. Hopefully I can help you out. Since you cast on 55 stitches, the first three stitches of the row will leave you with 52 stitches. The body of the herringbone stitch is knit on a multiple of two so you should be able to get four stitches at the end of your row. It’s possible that you are knitting too few or too many stitches at the beginning of the row. This would offset your stitch count. It’s hard for me to tell you a definite answer without seeing your work but I hope I’ve helped in some way! Feel free to write back if you have any other questions!
-Adam
Thank you for asking this question! I was convinced I needed 56 stitches but then wasn’t getting the correct result. I’ve been working the pattern over and over going back and fourth from 55 to 56 stitches.
Makes perfect sense.
Thanks.
Kmbold
Thank you so much for this beautiful scarf pattern! I finally finished today!! It took me about ten or more times of ripping out until I finally got my knitting tension even. I had for a while called it the “The Nightmare Scarf” ecspecially when I dropped a stitich and had to figure out how to rip out a row which turned into several 🙁 This scarf was a challenge for me and I wasnt going to cave in. I knitted it in the same yarn from Swan Island but in Teal, gorgeous!! I love all your patterns because they look so cool 🙂
Hi, I just wanted to add if anyone is interested. I knitted the scarf a bit longer up to 78 inches so I had to order one more skein. It give you a nice one wrap around your neck and theirs enough to through one end back over your shoulder. It will be perfect for my brother since he lives in a cold climate. Thanx again for your awesome pattern!!
Hi Purlbee, I just wanted to ask you what type of cast on you used for this scarf? I used the Continental cast on but when I bound off it didn’t look alike. I heard that if you use a Cable cast on your bind off will look identical. Have you heard about this? Thanx for any input.
Hi Lins-
We used a long tail cast on for this. Here is a tutorial that might help you out: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2006/09/29/long-tail-cast-on/
Thank you!
Molly
This may be a basic question, but I tried using a long tail cast on for this. After working the first row, I’m left with a huge loop at the end that I can’t get rid of. The only way I was able to prevent this was using a knit-on cast on with a slip knot. What am I doing wrong with long tail?
Hi Adam-
Hmmm… is the loop at the beginning or end of your cast on row?
The beginning of a long tail cast on is also a slip knot so perhaps that’s the issue?
Molly
Hi again, I just realized I don’t think I understood the bind off on the Mini Herringbone scarf. Am I sopose to drop every slipped stitch when binding off or just the first slipped stitch? This is probably why it doesn’t look anything like the cast on. Could you explain it in a different way? Thank you
Hi Linda.
I will gladly expand on the bind off! Bind the first three stitches off in pattern. You will bind off the first two stitches in knit and the third stitch in purl. From there, you continue in pattern, so, you will slip one, then knit one, bind off that slipped stitch, but rather than knitting it, as you have done in the previous RS rows, you will just drop it off the needle. Continue binding off in pattern, the last three will be bound off in purl, knit and knit.
Please write back if you want further help!
Thanks for writing in.
Laura
I’m so eager to try this pattern… However, I was looking for some advice. I’d really like to make the piece wider so as to be more of a shawl than scarf. I stink at figuring out gauge. Can you offer any advice as to how many to CO for such a project? Thanks in advance!
Hi Laura,
Thanks for writing in.
The Mini-Herringbone Stitch is always worked over an odd number of stitches. To make this scarf I added 3 selvedge stitches to each edge making 6 selvedge stitch in total. So if you’d like to make this wider… simply cast on an odd number + 6 selvedge stitches.
Let me know if you have any questions at all!
Thanks,
Laura
Hi! I absolutely love all your patterns and your style. How is it that you’re all able to combine classic with modern every single time?
I was hoping to do this pattern and treat myself to some yarn from Purl Soho. However, there are very few colours for the yarn you used. I was hoping to knit it with ANZULA For Better or Worsted, but being a somewhat self-taught knitter, I’m not sure it would work. What do you think? Also, would I need 2 or 3 skeins?
Thank you!
Hi Catherine-
For Better or Worsted would work beautifully, especially if you like the look of hand dyed yarn, which have a streaky quality. I would recommend a lighter color so that you can see the stitch pattern well. You would need 3 skeins.
Or if you’d rather not do a a hand dye, our Worsted Twist yarn would also work and you would also need 3 skeins: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/9239-Purl-Soho-Worsted-Twist
Thanks so much for your question and please let us know if you need any more help!
Molly
Hi, Purlbee. I just bought the yarn from Purlsoho to make this scarf, and although I have the stitch pattern down, I have two questions:
One, maybe it’s just the magic of photography, but the scarf in the photo looks as though it had been knitted on smaller needles than #10, and your edges seem so much finer than mine. Is that stitch really the result of #10 needles? If so, any suggestions as to how I might get a tighter edge? And two, when I was practicing the stitch, I dropped one and had absolutely no clue how to pick it up. Any hints on how to handle a dropped stitch? I’m afraid I’ll be a quarter of the way into the darned scarf, make a dreadful error and be stuck having to rip the whole thing out! Fear and trembling!
Hi Tim.
Yes, indeed these are size US #10 needles. I knit the scarf myself and could not believe how large a needle this stitch requires. If I was to work this yarn in stockinette stitch I would probably do so on a US #7, so I totally understand your disbelief.
One way to very slightly tighten up those selvedge stitches, would be to slip them knitwise rather than purlwise. Maybe give that shot?
As for picking up in this stitch, the best advice I can give here, is to slowing rip out a few rows, carefully watching how the loops and stitches interact with one another. That way, by the time you pull out your knitting down to the error, you’ll know what the stitches should look like and how to pick them back up.
Thanks for writing in, Tim, and please let me know if you have any questions.
Laura
Hi!
I love this pattern and would love to try knitting it in Woolfolk Far. What needle size would you recommend for this yarn and pattern?
Thanks!
Michelle
Hi Michelle-
The Woolfolk Far is a good substitution because it’s a similar weight to the original yarn used here. You shouldn’t have to adjust the needle size or the pattern at all!
Thanks for your question and please let us know if you have any more!
Molly
Hi Michelle + Molly.
Yes. Molly, you’re correct, they are similar in weight, but Michelle, the Woolfolk is a hair thicker than the Swan’s. I would maybe go up a size in needle, especially if you have a tendency to knit on the tight side. Plus the Woolfolk has more loft and bloom to it than the Swan’s so it can be knit a bit looser!
Let us know how it goes!
Laura
Help! Am I counting wrong. If the first 3 stitches and the last 3 stitches equal 6 stitches, and each set of p2tog requires and even number of stitches, how do you do this with and odd number of stitches (55)? After the sl1, p1, k1, then herringbone stitch all the way across I end up with only 2 stitches left. What am I doing wrong?
Hi Ann.
Thanks for writing in.
I think you may be overlooking a stitch in the pattern somewhere.
Yes, the selvedge stitches add up to 6, between them is an odd number. The Mini Herringbone potion does repeat in pairs of stitches but then ends with a single purl 1 on the wrong side and a single knit 1 on the purl side.
When you combine the Mini Herringbone pattern to the selvedge pattern it looks like the following…
Row 1 (WS): Sl1 wyif, p1, k1, * P2tog and leave stitches on needle, purl the first stitch again and drop both stitches together from left-hand needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p1, k1, p2
Row 2 (RS): Sl1 wyib, k1, p1, *Slip 1 with yarn in back, k1, then with left-hand needle raise up the slipped stitch as if to bind off but before dropping off right-hand needle, knit it and then drop from needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k1, p1, k2
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Laura
Could this be done in a DK cashmere/merino blend? How would I adapt the pattern? Needle size, number of stitches? Want to make for my son who’s six feet tall.
Hi Marilynn!
Since this scarf stitch pattern can be worked over any odd number of stitches, you should be able to adjust it easily! I would go down a couple of needle sizes from the pattern, and add a few stitches to the cast-on. Since it is a scarf it is entirely up to you how wide you’d like it!
I also usually make scarves at least as long as the height of the recipient, plus a few inches.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi Kathleen-
That yarn actually sounds pretty similar so it will probably work to just substitute it and do the pattern as is. But keep in mind that needle size is always just a suggestion, so if your swatch is too tight or too loose on the suggested needles you should always feel free to change!
Best-
Molly
Hi,
I am trying to make this lovely scarf, but something’s not going right. I cast on 55 stitches, and follow row one as written. I then end up with 2 stitches at the end (instead of 3), and no longer have the 55 stitches. Then, when I ignored the edge and kept knitting, I followed the instructions for the second row, and ended up with 2 stitches left for the edging and had a total of 56 stitches. What could I be doing wrong??
Thanks, Phoebe
Hi Phoebe.
Thanks for writing in. I think you may be overlooking a stitch in the pattern somewhere. When you combine the Mini Herringbone pattern to the selvedge pattern it looks like the following…
Row 1 (WS): Sl1 wyif, p1, k1, * P2tog and leave stitches on needle, purl the first stitch again and drop both stitches together from left-hand needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p1, k1, p2
Row 2 (RS): Sl1 wyib, k1, p1, *Slip 1 with yarn in back, k1, then with left-hand needle raise up the slipped stitch as if to bind off but before dropping off right-hand needle, knit it and then drop from needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k1, p1, k2
Does this help at all? I think you need to stop working the Mini Herringbone pattern one pair of stitches sooner in order to either k1, p1, k2 on the RS or p1, k1, p2 on the wrong side.
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Laura
Yes, that helps very much. Thank you!! The pattern reads to work the herringbone until the last 3 stitches, which is where I went wrong. Now off to continue my christmas knitting!
Thanks again!
Please help. I have swatches and swatchec and while the front looks right the back looks, as someone else posted, like basket weave. I even watched the you tube. The cowl and scarf a so lovely I can’t wait to have it made
Hi Amy.
I’d love to help you figure this out!
The Men’s Mini Herringbone and Whitney’s Herringbone cowl are two different stitches. We haven’t put out a video tutorial on either (although I know some for the cowl do exist on YouTube) so I’m not sure which stitch or pattern has you confused.
If it’s the Big Herringbone Cowl… please comment here (https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2011/01/05/whits-knits-big-herringbone-cowl/) so that Whitney can get back to you!
If it’s the scarf… can you tell me what exactly you’re struggling with? I’d love to help get you started! Please write us back!
Laura
I just started knitting this with Madeline Tosh Vintage 100% merino – worsted weight, 200 yds. I thought the yarn was comparable to the one featured in the pattern, but my gauge is too big with size 10 needles and even size 9 seems big. The scarf is turning out a full inch wider than the 7.5 inches mentioned in the pattern. Can you tell me if Madeline Tosh Vintage worsted is comparable to Swan’s Island Worsted? Should I keep dropping needle sizes until I match the guage? (The Madeline Tosh yarn actually calls for size 6-7 needles.)
Great website and patterns!
Hi Linda.
We don’t see Madeline Tosh Vintage so I don’t have any experience with it first hand, but after some internet research it’s looking like the suggested gauge is 4.5 to 5 stitches to the inch on size US6 or US7 needles. Swan’s Island’s Worsted is 4.5 stitches to the inch on size US8 needles. While the suggested needle size is different, by the looks of it, they can still accomplish the same gauge.
For the Mini-Herringbone, I suggest a US10 for the Swan’s Island Worsted for this pattern (2 sizes up from what’s recommended for stockinette stitch), so I think I’d go up from the recommended Us6 or US7 for stockinette to a US8 or US9 for this Mini-Herringbone pattern in the Madeline Tosh Vintage.
If the gauge is too big, then yes, I would drop down in needle size. The most important thing is that you’re happy with the fabric. Is the knit fabric too loose and hole-y? If yes, I’d drop down in needle size. If the fabric is a nice density and still drapey, maybe just continue to work the scarf as you are. The nice thing about scarves is that even if they are a little wide or a little narrow, they still “fit”.
Let me know if you have any questions!
Thanks.
Laura
Hi Laura,
Thanks so much for the quick reply. I do feel that even with the 9s the fabric was not as clean and tight as the scarf in the web photos. I’ll try dropping to the 8s to achieve that look.
Thanks again!
Linda
Hi Laura,
I’ve been knitting with size 8s and the scarf is turning out beautifully. I have a more general question now about the selvedges as this is the first time I am knitting a pattern that has them. Are they purely aesthetic, or do they function to prevent or reduce curling? I’m wondering if adding these selvedge stitches to a rosette stitch scarf would keep it from curling.
Thanks!
Hi Linda!
I am so glad to hear your scarf is coming along!
Regarding the selvedge stitches… They are primarily aesthetic, but yes they can help prevent a edge that wants to curl. The Mini Herringbone stitch tends to lay fairly flat on it’s own, but I have used this edge on other pieces and found it very helpful for fabrics whose edges curl.
I love this selvedge, but it doesn’t work for every row gauge. When it does, I find it quite pleasing, a clean finish that compliments textured stitch patterns like this or, I would imagine, a rosette stitch. If it doesn’t match the rosette stitch row gauge, maybe take a look at the edge I did on my Trellis Scarf. It’s similar and I think helps with a rolled edge even more. https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/04/04/lauras-loop-trellis-scarf/
Let me know how it goes!!
Laura
Hi,
This pattern is really incredibly beautiful, but I’m having a very hard time with it. Somehow, somewhere, I am dropping stitches. I can’t figure out why, where, when or how I’m not noticing.. I started working off the combined pattern that Laura so kindly wrote out, but I’m still having trouble. Is anyone else experiencing this? Any solutions? I’ve pulled out so many rows that my yarn has basically felted itself. Please help!
Thank you!
Hi Joy.
I’m so glad you think it’s beautiful and I’m so sorry it’s causing such strife.
Some spots where you may be losing stitches…
– maybe on the right side, when you are supposed to knit the stitch as you are binding it off, are you forgetting to knit it?
– maybe on the wrong side, when you are supposed to p2tog, but then purl into the first stitch again, are you forgetting to purl into that stitch again?
– maybe you are working up until the last two stitches rather than the last 4 and that is messing things up?
Readers, knitters, commenters… please weight in here. I’d love to hear your experience with this stitch, plus I’d love to get Joy back on track!
Joy… write me back with which part of the pattern has you most tripped up. I think we can figure this out!
Laura
Joy, did you figure out what was causing this? I’ve just started this scarf and realized that I’ve dropped about 5 stitches so far (I’ve knitted maybe 10-12 rows), but I can’t figure out where. Perhaps we are making the same mistake–if you have any advice, I’m grateful!
It looks like you no longer sell the Swan’s Island’s Worsted yarn that the pattern uses. Do you have any suggestions for substitutions?
Thank you!
I’m a bit confused by the selvedge element.
When you’re left with four stitches on the wrong side are you supposed to purl, purl, knit, purl? On the right side are you supposed to knit, knit, purl, knit?
Hi Kasady.
Thanks for writing in.
Here’s what the pattern looks like all together (selvedge stitches + Mini Herringbone stitch pattern). Hope this helps!
Laura
Row 1 (WS): Sl1 wyif, p1, k1, * P2tog and leave stitches on needle, purl the first stitch again and drop both stitches together from left-hand needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p1, k1, p2
Row 2 (RS): Sl1 wyib, k1, p1, *Slip 1 with yarn in back, k1, then with left-hand needle raise up the slipped stitch as if to bind off but before dropping off right-hand needle, knit it and then drop from needle, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k1, p1, k2
This pattern is beautiful! I am just wondering if it can be done with a regular herringbone stitch in between the selvege edge? I found a pattern where you k2tog in the back, drop of first stitch and continue to end of row on the RS. The WS is th e same as you described. Would that work?
Hi Danielle.
I’m not entirely sure it will work, but it sounds promising (and interesting). The stitch pattern you found… is it worked over an odd number of stitches? Have you done a swatch to test it out? I’d love to hear how it goes!
Laura
Can you recommend a matching hat pattern for a man? Maybe gloves?
Hi Allison.
I do not know of any hat patterns that use this same stitch. I will keep my eye out though. I bet this stitch pattern would make a lovely pair of Mittens. Maybe Mini Herringbone on the back side of the mitten and stockinette on the front or palm side? Again, I don’t know of any off the top of my head, but I’ll keep it in mind (and maybe even see if we can work something like this into the calendar for 2015).
Thanks for your interest and for writing in.
Laura
PS: Here’s a link to all of our knit hats! https://www.purlsoho.com/create/category/knit/projects-knit/accessories-projects-knit/hats-projects-knit/
Hello, I am having trouble with the selvedge stitch. The chain of stitches on one side is coming out loose, while the other side is perfect. Do you have suggestions on how to fix the lose side?
Hi Celeste.
I’m glad you wrote in! A couple people have had this same issue. I’ve been suggesting to slip that first slipped stitch, on the loose edge, knitwise rather than purlwise. Most of the time this fixes that extra looseness. Another option is to try a different edge all together… like the one I used on the Brioche Scarf: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/10/20/lauras-loop-brioche-scarf/
On the right side start and end each row with… slip 1 wyif, k1, slip 1 wyif
On the wrong side start and end each row with… k1, slip 1 wyif, k1
I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any questions!
Laura
Thank you Laura, I will knit a swatch for both options to see which works best. I’ll write again to tell you how I am doing with the project.
Celeste
Is casting on 55 stitches correct? Is this not made across the short end, and then to desired length?
Hi Susan.
Casting on 55 stitches is perfect!
You cast on for the short edge and then work to the desired length!
At 7 1/2 stitches to the inch in stitch pattern, the scarf should end up approximately 7 1/2 inches wide.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Laura
Hi I would like to make this using some Juniper moon baby alpaca I have. The yarn is bulky weight. I’m also a tight knitter and I know this is a tight kind of stitch. What size needle would you recommend? Your pattern uses 10s… May I go up to 13s? And keep an odd number of stitches? I definitely want to keep the masculine look of this scarf. Other herringbone patterns have edging that looks too feminine for my husbands style.
Hi Jennifer-
I am not familiar with that yarn but it sounds like you’re on the right track. The best thing to do would be to knit a swatch on the 13s to make sure you like the look of the fabric you create.
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Gorgeous pattern!
Hi there!
I am relatively new to knitting but feel like I have mastered this pattern with one small exception! My scarf is always slightly slanted towards the left! Can you suggest what could be causing this?
I have tried knitting it tighter or looser and I am making sure that both wrong and right side are knitted in the same tension but it keeps happening. Could it be the yarn I used? I’m knitting with Patons wool blend aran which uses the same needles and very similar tension as the wool in the pattern. I would appreciate any advice!
Thanks.
Hi Ju.
It sounds like you’ve already really investigated the situation. I know you said you’ve been diligent about keeping your tension even on both sides, but sometimes, with patterns like this (where you are working two stitches at once and working stitches twice and doing a faux bind off kind of thing), we can’t help but favor one side. We either purl a little tighter or knit a little tighter. It’s a charming nuance of hand made goods.
Have you blocked your scarf? Do you think it is so drastically slanted that blocking won’t straighten it up? Sometimes a good soak will really relax the stitches, taking some of that unwanted shape away.
I’m sorry to not have any new or secret or magical advice to give.
Please keep us posted if you figure out a fantastic solution or have any thoughts on this! We’d love to hear about your experience.
Thanks.
Laura
Does the front side look identical to the back side of the pattern?
Hi Jamie
Great question.
It does not. The has a slight and subtle pattern of purl-like stitches.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
Laura
Dear Purl Bees
I have just received your “worsted twist” wool via mail.
Can I use it too for this mens scarf? It is a little thicker than the described one. What is the smallest needle possible for the “worsted twist”? Last but not least – do you suggest iron needles for a even pattern?
kind regards
Dear Purl Bees
I have just received your “worsted twist” wool via mail.
Can I use it too for this mens scarf? It is a little thicker than the described one. What is the smallest needle possible for the “worsted twist”? Last but not least – do you suggest iron needles for a evenly knitted pattern?
Hi Mario.
You definitely can use the Worsted Twist for the Men’s Mini Herringbone Scarf! As you mentioned it’s a bit thicker than the yarn used in the pattern, but not by too much. For the original scarf I used a size US10 needle. I would typically use a US7 for the Swan’s Island Worsted if working stockinette stitch, but the Mini Herringbone is so dense, I had to jump up a few needle sizes.
For the Worsted Twist, I typically use a US8 if working stockinette stitch, so I would probably go up to a US10 1/2 or US11 for this scarf.
You asked what the smallest needle possible for Worsted Twist… I tend to use a US6 if I am trying to work ribbing for the cuff of a hat or something similar.
As for needles, I personally tend to knit with only metal needles. I love the Addi Turbos and the Addi Turbo Rockets. https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/8-knitting-crochet-knitting-needles?filters%5B%5D=11 Lots of people love wooden needles though too. It’s whatever is more comfortable in your hand. There’s a bit more flex with the wooden needles, but there is also more friction, which can slow you down.
Please let us know if you have any questions!
Thanks for writing in.
Laura
Thanks a lot for your detailed answer. I have tried it out with the worsted weight. I am not very convinced if I have it right. Probably it is the look of the «twisted» which seems different to your pictures. With a different wool I almost got it … but maybe I invented also another pattern.
Hi! This pattern is gorgeous, but I’ve tried starting it a few times and my border always looks much chunkier than it does in the photographs… Are you sure it’s the same? It seems like 3-4 stitches on either side looks like more than you could have in the pictures. Then again it could just be me making a mistake. Please let me know! Thanks
Hi Noa.
The scarf pictured here follows this exact pattern.
The edge doesn’t fully take shape until you’re a few inches in. How far have you been getting until before you rip out? Are you slipping your slipped stitches purlwise? I’m not sure if you’ve read any of the comments, some commenters found it helpful to slip the slipped stitches knitwise instead (just for the selvedge stitch). This does change the look a little bit, but it may tighten things up for you.
I do hope this helps.
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Laura
Hi. I love this pattern. My scarf is knit on size 8s using Madeline Tosh DK Merino. It looks amazing except that it is biasing to the left. Is there a way to correct this? Any thoughts on why this is happening? My knitting has never biased in 15 years.
Thanks!!
Hi Sarah.
I’m glad you wrote in.
You are not alone! A few others have written in with similar concerns or experiences. I think this fabric may have has a tendency to bias especially if you might be working the right and wrong sides with even just a slightly different tension (which is extremely common). The difference in tensions can cause subtle pull or bias to become much more exaggerated. Most folks who’ve suffered this problem have had great luck with blocking this scarf back into a rectangle. Have you tried to block your scarf?
Please write us back. I’m curious to hear how the blocking goes! Let me know if you have any questions.
Best,
Laura
Does anyone have any substitute yarn suggestions? This scarf is beautiful, but it looks like Purl Bee is no longer selling the Swan’s Island yarn originally used. Thanks!
Also, I am in love with the original color, so I would love a suggestion for a similar color as well.
Hello again!
Purl Soho’s Worsted Twist Heather in Wheat Flour is very similar! Check it out here: https://www.purlsoho.com/yarn/knitting-crochet/worsted-twist-heather.html
Thanks for writing! -Alyson
Hello Kaitlynn!
This pattern originally used a standard worsted weight, so any of these yarns would work wonderfully:
Purl Soho’s Worsted Twist: https://www.purlsoho.com/yarn/knitting-crochet/worsted-twist.html
Madeline Tosh Merino: https://www.purlsoho.com/yarn/knitting-crochet/tosh-merino.html
or Manos del Uruguay’s Maxima: https://www.purlsoho.com/yarn/knitting-crochet/maxima.html
Hope this helps! Happy knitting! -Alyson
Hi Laura
Really like this patten. Would like to know if it’s passible to use this patten to make a baby hat for my son! If it’s passible how can I decrease ?
Hello Krilin!
While we don’t have a pattern at the moment for this exact stitch pattern in a child’s sized hat, we do have a pattern with a stitch that resembles herringbone available here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/12/08/elfin-hats/
Take a look and let us know what you think! Thanks for writing in, Alyson
This knits up so beautifully, I looooove this herringbone pattern! My question is…. Any tips on tinking? I made a practice swatch to learn this technique, and completely ripped the work off the needles after a mistake because i simply could not undo it. My efforts to tink were disastrous!! If I make a mistake two feet in on the actual project scarf I’ll cry if I can’t fix lol. Help!
Oh….maybe i should add that I didn’t realize it right away and truth is I wasnt sure where my error even was… I was trying to work backward to find it. Thank you!
Hello Laura!
From your second comment it seems like you aren’t able to identify where the problem was in the scarf. Were you able to find it? Has the error affected the rows that you are working on now?
As you unfortunately figured out, this stitch pattern is quite intricate and therefore nearly impossible to tink back without ripping out to the error. How drastic is the error? It may be possible to stitch it into place from the back of the work and make it invisible. Let us know so we can brainstorm together!
Thanks for writing in! -Alyson
Ok, so in the meantime I DID have an error in my actual project. I took it to my local yarn shop out here on Long Island, and the owner patiently tink-ed away. She’s a MASTER lol. I learned a lot from her that day and am all fixed up. Lesson learned: do not knit this scarf until the kids are ASLEEP. thanks for your reply! And for this beautiful scarf. I think my honey’s going to love it <3
I’m a little upset that there is no video on how to do this, but rather, how to end it. I would love a video or pictures because the written of this is just too much and too easy for me to mess up 🙁 It seems to be very popular and asked about, I hope a video is added.
Hi Jakkie.
Thank you for your request!
We’ll see what we can do about adding this to our Video To Do List. In the meantime I’d love to help you through any portion you’re finding difficult. Please do not hesitate to write us back with any questions!
Thanks.
Laura
I am working on starting this beautiful pattern, but every time I get to the third row I am short one stitch. The first two work through fine, but when I get to the end of the third row I have five stitches left instead of the four needed for the p1, k1, p2. I have started over 4 times and end up with the same problem each time.
Nevermind, I still don’t know what I was doing but I somehow fixed my own problem.
Jordan, I’m glad to hear your back on track. Please don’t hesitate to write us if you run into any other problems! Thanks for writing in. -Laura
I just purchased the woolfolk yarn from purlsoho to make my husband the mini herringbone scarf. Can you suggest the needle size to swatch/gauge with? This will be my first attempt at this stitch and am needing some guidance. Thank you for all the lovely patterns.
Hello, Carol!
Thank you for writing in! Sorry for the delayed response! Which Woolfolk yarn did you buy? For Far I recommend trying a US 10 or US 11 and for Tynd I recommend trying a US 5 or 7. Pleaes let us know if you have further questions!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I would love to knit this scarf but find I cannot follow the tutorial as you are knitting continental. What is the difference between the “mini” herringbone and regular herringbone stitches? I can find other tutorials for herringbone that I understand but none for mini herringbone. Thank you!
Hello Sandra,
Thanks for your interest in this pattern! “Mini Herringbone” is also known as “Little Herringbone” and I have posted a link to a YouTube tutorial below. This tutorial is also continental, but it is the only tutorial I could find of this stitch. I hope this helps.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9n8443eRryM
Best,
Adam
Beautiful pattern! My husband would love me to knit him a scarf and we’ve settled on this one, but horror of horrors he does not want wool! Can you suggest a quality cotton yarn substitution? Much appreciated.
Hi Liz,
What a bummer! For a cotton replacement for the Swan’s Island Worsted, I would suggest trying Blue Sky Worsted Cotton. The yardage is a little different and you will need 3 skeins of the Blue Sky Worsted Cotton to get the same yardage.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I just started this pattern and am struggling with visualizing the first row..
p2tog and leave stitches on needle, purl the first stitch again and drop both stitches together from left-hand needle
I am not sure I’m understanding how to purl the first stitch again. I get really tight knots when I try, and I’ve you tubed a few herringbone videos and none seem to be purling two together and then purling into the first stitch again. Is it possible to elaborate for an intermediate knitter. I feel like once I get that down, I’ll be good to go!
Thank you!
Oh no, I just saw the link above! Very helpful, the first few rows look a bit weird, but once you get going it starts to make sense. I’m working a bit sloppy, but may start again with another yarn, etc. Thanks!!
I am knitting this scarf using Cascade Longwood worsted. I completed about 12″ and the scarf is coming out slanted not square. What have I done wrong? Can it be fixed by blocking?
Hello Wendy!
You are not alone! A few others have written in with similar concerns or experiences. We think that this fabric may have has a tendency to bias especially if you might be working the right and wrong sides with even just a slightly different tension (which is very common). A difference in tensions can cause subtle pull or bias to become much more exaggerated. Most folks who’ve suffered this problem have had great luck with blocking this scarf back into a rectangle.
Please write us back. We’d love to hear how the blocking goes! And please let us know if you have any further questions.
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Hello,
This looks like a fabulous pattern and I’m really looking forward to making it as a Christmas present for a friend.
A suggestion for future knitting patterns: it would be good to list the approximate number of yards needed; it’s only by reading some old comments that I noticed that this scarf needs 500 yards.
Thanks for the patterns… keep them coming. 🙂
Hello Su,
Thank you so much for your kind words! Your suggestion is a great and we will certainly take it under consideration!
Thank you for writing in.
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I thought I should let you know that I finished the scarf in 2 1/2 weeks and gave it to a friend as a Christmas present. He said that he loves the herringbone pattern and the thickness of the scarf. Trouble is, now he wants me to knit more things for him! 😀
Thanks again for the excellent pattern, and Happy New Year!
Hi, I’m knitting this in the For Better or Worsted in the color Aspen which is a beautiful color using a size 10 needle. However…..I have tried multiple times to get a tight edge pulling the yarn tight but it still is very loose and has holes. Am I doing something wrong?
Hi Christine,
Thank you for the question. Because you are knitting with such a smooth worsted yarn on a US 10, you might have to tighten up your tension on the selvedge stitches. To do this you’ll knit and purl but pull upward after each stitch to tighten the stitch on the needle. If this doesn’t work, you might want to consider moving down to a US 9. I hope this helps. Best of luck and happy knitting!
-Adam
I’m somewhat confused about the gauge on this scarf of 7.5 inches per inch. I’m using the recommended Swans Island Worsted, which is listed as 4.5 stitches per inch on US8 needles. So, if I go up to US10, shouldn’t I get less stitches per inch and not the pattern’s gauge of 7.5 inches per inch?
Hi Donna,
Thanks for writing in! I think that I see where the confusion so happening. The gauge on this scarf if given in stitch pattern and this stitch pattern is quite dense. Therefore the given gauge will be significantly different than the gauge of the yarn. I would suggest knitting up a gauge swatch in pattern and then checking your gauge for this project.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I’m somewhat confused about the gauge on this scarf of 7.5 inches per inch. I’m using the recommended Swans Island Worsted, which is listed as 4.5 stitches per inch on US8 needles. So, if I go up to US10, shouldn’t I get less stitches per inch and not the pattern’s gauge of 7.5 inches per inch?
Hi Donna,
The herringbone stitch is very, very dense. This means that even on a larger needle you’ll get way more stitches per inch. Let me know if you have any other questions — I’d be glad to help.
-Adam
Hi – I’m a new beginner, and excited to do something that looks complicated! I’m wondering if there are any video recommendations that demonstrate the written instructions. I’m having a hard time understanding them in written form. I’d like to knit this scarf as a gift and want to do a good job of it. Thanks!
Hello Shannon!
Thank you for writing in! Unfortunately we do not at this time have a video tutorial for the Herringbone stitch. I recommend checking out our pattern for the Big Herringbone Cowl for some images of this stitch. Also, a quick internet search of “Herringbone Knit Stitch” is sure to send some videos your way. I hope this helps!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I am currently working on this scarf pattern. I LOVE IT! It’s gorgeous!! But for some reason, the scarf is tilted.. I’m trying my best to keep the same pressure of hold while kitting but for some reason it is pretty badly tilted.. is it because I am using circular needle instead of straight one? Is there any way to fix it? Please help me!!
Hi Rob,
Thanks for writing us! Sorry this pattern is giving you trouble. I am not sure why your scarf is coming out tilted. It is hard to tell without seeing the scarf in person. Does the stitch look correct? I would do another swatch on the side and see if you get the same results. Let me know how it goes!
-Adam
hello- I am in the process of making this mini herringbone scarf and I must say it has been very fun and exciting process.
but I am slightly confused since my scarf pattern seems… tilted.
the whole scarf is off shape. its not straight..
I am trying to use same pressure all around as I knit, and seems like I am knitting it correctly so I am confused as to why it is tilted..
is this something that can be fixed? or do I need to start the whole thing again..?
is this because I am using circular needle by any chance?
Please help me!! i wanted to knit this to give as a gift so I want it to look perfect.. 🙂
Thank you in advance!
Hi Rob,
Thanks for writing us! Sorry this pattern is giving you trouble. I am not sure why your scarf is coming out tilted. It is hard to tell without seeing the scarf in person. Does the stitch look correct? I would do a swatch on the side and see if you get the same results. Let me know how it goes!
Best,
Cassy
I was given some beautiful Folio yarn for Christmas and would like to knit this scarf for myself. However, the yarn calls for size 5 needles. Would this be an impossible task? What adjustments would I need to make?
John
Hello John,
Thanks for your question! To knit this scarf with size 5 needles all you will need to do is knit a gauge swatch in the stitch pattern to find out how many stitches per inch you are getting. Once you have this number you can figure out how many stitches to cast on to achieve your desired width. You will want to be sure to cast on an odd number. I hope this helps!
Warmly,
Marilla
Hi there. I have some Hometown USA super chunky that I’m hoping to use for this. Just wondering if it will work, and any suggestions on needle size would be much appreciated.
Hello Sue,
Thanks for writing in!
This scarf was knit with a worsted weight yarn so you will not be able to achieve gauge with a super chunky yarn. If you don’t mind this scarf coming out wider I would try knitting with a US 15. If you would like your scarf to come out with a width of 7 1/2″ you can knit a gauge swatch in the stitch pattern to find out how many stitches per inch you are getting. Once you have this number you can figure out how many stitches to cast on to achieve your desired width. You will want to be sure to cast on an odd number. I hope this helps!
-Marilla
I notice that Swan’s Island Worsted is no longer available front Purl Soho. Is there another yarn you would recommend for this project?
Hello Meara,
Thanks for reaching out! This scarf would be beautiful in our Worsted Twist and will knit up to the same gauge.
I hope this helps!
-Marilla
Hi! I just had a quick comment about slipping of stitches. The directions say to slip as if to purl – should I slip as if to purl with the yarn in front or just slip as if to purl with the yarn in back? I’ve done both depending on the pattern and wanted to check 🙂
Thanks again!
Hi Rebecca,
Thanks for writing in! One row 1 you will slip with yarn in front and row 2 you will slip the yarn in the back. You can also view the video above if you are more of a visual learner. I find that it helps make this pattern fly by!
Best,
Cassy
I love this pattern! I’m trying to create a blanket but I’m not sure how many stitches to start with?
Hi Angella,
What a lovely idea! The cast on number will depend on how large you would like to make your blanket. The gauge for this pattern is 7 1/2 stitches = 1 inch in stitch pattern and the pattern works over an odd number of stitches. So if you would like your blanket to be 40 inches wide, 7.5 x 40 = 300 and the nearest odd number is 301. Based on this, for a 40 inch wide blanket, you would cast on 301 stitches.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
What cast on method did you use?
Hi Sarah,
Thanks for writing in! For this lovely scarf we used the long tail cast on. Our tutorial for this cast on can be found here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2006/09/29/long-tail-cast-on/
For most of our patterns, unless otherwise noted, we use the long tail cast on!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Beautiful pattern! I noticed the Swan’s Island is out now. What is the total yardage needed for this? Thanks
Hi Grace,
Thanks for writing in! Sadly we do not carry Swan’s Island anymore. For this lovely scarf you will need approximately 500 yards of an Worsted to Aran weight yarn!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Can you do a video of the actual stitch, not just the bind off? Other videos are not this stitch. I have ripped it apart 6 times because it has ugly holes between stitches and knit in the back or the front on the S1 K1 slip knit……? Vague instructions for a beginning knitter. The bind off is useless without the actual stitch. The cowl and hat are nothing like this pattern either. Searched this entire site to get no assistance in this scarf.
Super excited to make my son a scarf for Christmas, but feel like throwing it all in the trash and buying something already made instead.
Hi Renee,
Thanks for writing in! You are in luck! We just relaunched this pattern using our new yarn Understory and with it, we made a video of the stitch. It can be found here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/mini-herringbone/
Best of luck and happy knitting!
Cassy
p1, k1, * p2tog and leave stitches on needle,
Hi Noor,
Thanks for writing in! We just relaunched this pattern and with it we made a video of the stitch. It can be found here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/mini-herringbone/ I think that watching the video may clear things up for you! In this newer version, we did alter the edge stitches a bit and perhaps this pattern will work better for you. It can be found here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2017/10/27/mini-herringbone-scarf-in-understory/
Best,
Cassy
I am so excited to try this scarf! Thank you very much for all the information on how to knit it, and for the video you just posted, showing the repeats on the right and wrong sides! Suddenly the instructions became clear!
This is such a lovely scarf; I think it would be perfect for my very fussy adult son. However, I can’t find the original pattern for the Men’s Version. I would like to do that one because I know he would prefer the selvedge edge on that original version. All I can find is the updated version, with a different edge. Can you direct me to the original Men’s pattern? Thank you!
Hi Barbara,
Here’s the like to the original pattern!
Men’s Mini Herringbone Scarf
Enjoy!
Carly
Perfect — thank you so much!
BB
I love the herringbone scarf, but…my fabric has a definite bias type lean. I think this is the same problem that Rob referred to earlier this year. I am using two strands of worsted and knitting on a size ten circular needle. I have started and restarted this project several times, and the fabric always develops this bias type lean. Any help would be appreciated!
Hi Liz,
Thanks for writing in! Bias can happen on this very compact stitch pattern when you are knitting more tightly than you are purling or vice versa. It may also be due to using needles that are too small for this very compact stitch pattern. Here we are using worsted weight held single and a US 10. If you are holding 2 strands of worsted weight, you may need to go us as large as a US 15 or 17 to get a fabric that matches what we have here. I’d suggest going down to 1 strand of worsted weight and your US 10 needles and see if you get a better result!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Hello, what Cashmere yarn would you suggest for this pattern?
Hi! I am new to knitting and wondering if there is a video that walks through the steps so I can see how it is done. I unfortunately don’t understand the terminology used in the instructions but would love to try to make it.
Hello Bira,
Thank you for reaching out and your interest in this project! Here is a link to a video tutorial we made for this project: .
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
Hi! I just started knitting a scarf using this stitch and it’s also coming out tilted! Since there’s a little stripe pattern on each end it really shows and doesn’t look good at all, is there a way I can avoid it? I’m using chunky yarn and 6mm needles and never usually have this problem with that combination of sizes!
Hello Han,
Thank you for writing us! Bias can happen on this very compact stitch pattern when you are knitting more tightly than you are purling or vice versa. It may also be due to using needles that are too small for this very compact stitch pattern. Here we are using a light worsted weight held single with a 6mm/US10. If you are using a chunky weight, you may need to go us as large as a 9mm or 10mm to get a fabric that matches what we have here.
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Hi! I was wondering if you had any advice on how to weave in the ends of the Men’s Herringbone Scarf, the original pattern not the updated. I grew up knitting, however my great gran always wove in my ends for me; she loved to particularly after arthritis made it too challenging to knit a whole project. She’s no longer here to share her technique with me so any advice would be helpful.
Thanks so much,
Kathleen
Hello Kathleen,
Thank you for reaching out! The key to weaving in your ends is really to follow your original stitch pattern as you go. There are many ways to do this and everyone has their preferred methods. For a more in depth discussion on how to weave in your ends check out our tutorial on weaving in ends.
I hope this helps and let us know if you have any further questions!
Happy knitting,
Marilla
Hello! I’m planning to knit this pattern with a DK weight. If I knit double, what needle size would you suggest? Same question if I were to knit single with DK weight. The suggested needle size for my yarn is US 4. Thank you!
I’m knitting with Sugar Baby Alpaca by Woold and the Gang
Hi Lindsay,
Thank you for your question! I would recommend doing a gauge swatch on the needles recommended in the pattern to start. Everyones gauge is a little different so keep swatching with different needles until you find the correct size.
Best,
Carly
Can I use this pattern for a colour block scarf?
Hi Linda,
You can do color blocks or stripes in the herringbone stitch; however, there will be a little “wiggle” along each color change instead of a straight line. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but I’m not sure if that’s the look you are going for! I would recommend trying it out in a small swatch first to see if you like to look of color changes in the Herringbone stitch.
Thanks for your question!
Julianna
I’m wondering what the formula is to cast on a larger number for a wider piece. I checked the Big Herringbone Cowl pattern and didn’t see any notation there for casting on an even or odd number or multiples of 3 or whatever.
Do you have any information on this?
Hello Lee,
Thank you for reaching out! The mini Herringbone is worked over any odd number greater than 5.
Warmly,
Marilla
I’m confused. when row 1 says purl the first stitch again, which is the first stitch? the left one or the right?
Hello Gabriel,
Thank you for writing us! With your row facing you the first stitch refers to the stitch on the right or the stitch that is closest to the end of your left needle.
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
I LOVE THIS PATTERN/scarf. the cast on edge is very curled. will it be able to be flattened upon blocking or should I rip out and start over.
Hello Chris,
Thank you for reaching out and for your enthusiasm! Blocking should eliminate this issue, but depending on how much it is curling you could knit up a little swatch and block it to make sure it will take care of the curling issue.
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Hi,
I am knitting the men’s mini Herringbone scarf. What is the correct gauge in pattern? If the yarn is 4.5 per inch and the stitch is denser and the needle larger, shouldn’t I get less stitches per inch? Thanks for your help.
Resa
Hi Resa,
Thanks for writing in! Herringbone stitch by its nature creates a very dense fabric and compresses your stitches quite a bit, so you will end up getting more stitches per inch than you would in stockinette or garter stitch, even when using a larger needle than regularly recommended for the yarn. We did get a gauge of 7 1/2 stitches per inch with worsted weight yarn on US 10 needles!
Happy knitting!
Julianna
Could I knit this pattern with sock yarn?
If so, what kind of changes would you recommend I make as far as the needle size goes?
I’m not sure it’s ever recommending to knit a pattern with a lighter weight yarn than the designer calls for … but I have this beautiful, variegated sock yarn in my stash and I thought it might look nice knit up with this stitch.
Any thoughts would be appreciated!
– Michelle
Hi Michelle,
Thanks for writing in! Worsted weight to sock weight is quite a jump, so I would definitely suggest knitting a gauge swatch on a needle 2-3 sizes larger than is recommended for your yarn. This will also give you an opportunity to see how the herringbone stitch looks in a variegated yarn – sometimes if the yarn is too busy it will obscure the stitch pattern, but it’s hard to tell until you have tried it! Once you have determined your stitches per inch, you can multiply that number by 7.5 and round to the nearest odd number to figure out how many stitches to cast on.
Best of luck and happy knitting!
Julianna
Hello, I see that the yarn you have suggested for this pattern is no longer available, I would like the same color , do you recommend another yarn? Thank you
Hi and thanks for writing in! Our Understory works beautifully in this pattern, and the Willow Bark color is quite similar to the shade of Swans Island Worsted we used for our sample. I also think our Good Wool in Driftwood Gray would work quite well!
Best of luck and happy knitting!
Julianna
Hello, I’m looking for the original men’s herringbone mini scarf pattern please .
Hi Mattie,
Thanks for writing in! If you scroll up to the section titled “Pattern,” you will find our original Mini Herringbone Scarf pattern on this page.
Happy knitting!
Julianna
Hello, I was wondering if you had a recommendation on a hat pattern to match this scarf. I’ve seen the herringbone hat but I’m just not sure how I feel about the square top. I tend to lean towards the beanie style. Thoughts? Thanks in advance!
Hello Grace,
Thank you for reaching out! The Herringbone hat would have been my suggestion as it is the only hat pattern that would truly match this scarf. My second idea would be our Four Spokes Hat, Which I think would be really lovely in our Understory yarn which a we also knit this scarf up in. It could be really lovely if you used the same yarn for the hat and scarf to coordinate them.
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Thank you so much for this pattern, it’s beautiful and a delight to make.
I’m about to start knitting the Men’s Mini Herringbone Scarf. I was wondering if I should do a set-up row first & then begin the pattern. It’s often difficult to knit the first row, knitting off the cast-on stitches. So, I thought doing the more complex pattern might be even harder. Would it be better to first do one (or 2 rows of knit stitches (or purl). Thanks.
Hello Jeanie,
Thanks for reaching out! For this stitch there is no need for a set up row, I would just suggest no casting on to tightly.
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
G’day,
If I’d like to change colours, should I change on the wrong side?
Cheers, Jo
Hi Jo,
Thanks for reaching out! I would actually recommend changing colors on the right side of the work; however, keep in mind there will be a little “wiggle” along each color change instead of a straight line. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but I’m not sure if that’s the look you are going for! I would recommend trying it out in a small swatch first to see if you like to look of color changes in the Herringbone stitch.
Best,
Julianna
Do you have any suggested resources showing how to recover from problems in this stitch? I’ve literally tried starting this scarf three times, and I keep making what are probably dumb mistakes (uh, one time wine was involved…I should know better), and I can’t figure out how to recover from them. The stitch is so beautiful, but I’m starting to feel twitchy about getting a handful of inches done and making a goof and having no idea how to fix. Other herringbone stitches I see debugging videos for online seem to be done differently. Thanks in advance if you can help!
Hi Caroline,
Thanks for writing in! Unfortunately we do not have a video for fixing mistakes in this stitch, though, as you have found, it can be tricky! My best advice would be to go stitch by stitch, and when taking out a knit row, uncross the slipped stitch before attempting to take it out. I will certainly pass your request for a video along to the design team!
Best,
Julianna
Hi Julianna,
Thanks for your reply — fortunately, I was able to get into a rhythm with this stitch and was ultimately able to make the two scarves in it I had intended as thank-you gifts for my surgeon and his P.A. after a recent spinal fusion surgery (I thought it appropriate I knit a bone-themed stitch while my bones were also knitting…).
I’m definitely going to use this stitch again, and I still think I’d be in trouble if I made a mistake, but I feel like I have much more of a “flow” with it now. If it was possible, though, I think a video showing how to recover from mistakes in this particular stitch would be an awesome add.
Hello,
Thank you for this and all of your lovely patterns! I’m a fan. I want to knit this scarf for my boyfriend, and am trying to decide between the two versions of pattern (old and new). I’ve settled on understory. Debating scarf width and the edge style.
I’m a fairly experienced knitter and not afraid of the original pattern’s edges.
Besides personal preference, do you think the original would work a little better for a cis man with more of a refined masculine style – or either would be fine?
Thanks!
Hi Ashley,
Thanks for writing in! Although I think both versions are totally gender neutral classics that could work for anyone using either edge treatment, you may want to take his height and build into account when deciding on the width. A narrower scarf can look a bit underwhelming on someone who is very tall or broadly built – but some might find a skinnier scarf more of a fashion statement, so there is definitely an element of personal preference! I am sure that either version will result in a cherished and cozy accessory!
Best,
Julianna
Hi! I’m looking to knit this with DK(weight #3) 100% Baby Alpaca Yarn . For that yarn it said US size 5-7, but I saw on the below post that the scarf is knitted with DK weighted yarn and a size 10 needled. Just wanted to be sure I’m using the correct needle size! (also side note my first knitting project :))
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/mini-herringbone/
Thanks,
Janis
Hi Janis,
Thanks for reaching out! Although most DK yarns recommend a US 5-7 on their label, due to the dense nature of the herringbone stitch, we find it works up best on a US 10 needle using a DK weight yarn. If you aren’t sure, you could always knit up a gauge swatch to see how it turns out!
Best of luck, and happy knitting!
Julianna
Hi – if i want to knit this scarf using the Cashmere Bloom yarn, how many skeins would I need? Thanks!
Hi Lauren,
You will need 3 skeins of Cashmere Merino Bloom to knit this scarf!
Best,
Julianna
If the Swan Island Worsted is no longer carried… what are the best substitute yarns to achieve the same gauge? Would Purl Soho Worsted Twist work?
Hi Anjuli,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes, Worsted Twist would be a great yarn to substitute for this scarf! Our newest version of the Herringbone scarf is knit up in Understory which also just as lovely as the original!
Best,
Julianna
Would Super Soft Merino yarn work with this pattern? If so, would I still need 2 skeins or more?
Thank you:-)
Hello Stormie,
Thanks for reaching out! Super Soft Merino is a much thicker yarn than what we used for this project so you would need to go up in needle size and down in cast on. I would recommend trying a US 17 needle for SuperSoft in Herringbone stitch. You would then knit up a little knit a gauge swatch in the stitch pattern to find out how many stitches per inch you are getting. Once you have this number you can figure out how many stitches to cast on to achieve your desired width. You will want to be sure to cast on an odd number. I hope this helps!
Warmly,
Marilla
Hello!
I’m about a quarter of the way through my scarf and have realised that that skeins of yarn I’m using are not as lengthy as the Swan Island yarn used in this pattern. The skeins I’m using are 192 meters per skein as opposed to 229 meters per Swan Island skein. I am using 2 skeins which means I’m 66 metres short. I’m wondering if I’ll have enough yarn for my scarf to reach 60 metres?
Thank you!
Hi Maria,
Thanks for reaching out! How does your gauge compare to that of the pattern? We used approximately 500 yards for this scarf so I think you may need an additional skein to get to the 68 inches!
All the best,
Gianna
Hi,
I love these stitches and was wondering if there is a sweater pattern with these stitches. Thank you.
Hi Sylvie,
Thanks for reaching out! We don’t currently offer a sweater pattern with this stitch but thank you for expressing you interest and I will be sure to pass this along to the rest of the team!
All the best,
Gianna
Hi Colby,
Thanks for reaching out! It looks like Luft is a Bulky weight yarn and the original yarn we used for this scarf is a worsted weight so you would need to make some adjustments to the pattern. Typically a US 8 is standard for a worsted weight yarn, so we sized up to a US 10 for this pattern! I would recommend sizing up to a US 13 for this stitch pattern and working a gauge swatch to calculate your cast on! I suggest checking out our tutorial All About Gauge, it is an excellent resource to use!
I hope this helps and feel free to reach out with any more questions!
Warmly,
Gianna
Hello
Thank you for this wonderful tutorial. After failing with another pattern a zillion times, I think I can do this! Can you please help me how to change up the yarn to 4ply (UK) using 3.25mm (US 3) needles? I would like to make the scarf for my boyfriend.
Salma
Hi Salma,
Thanks for reaching out! You can certainly use a different yarn and needle size! You will just need to start out by working a gauge swatch to determine your cast on amount, just be sure to know that this stitch pattern works over any odd number greater than 5.
I hope this helps, happy knitting!
Gianna
Thank you so much, that makes sense. I will try this, I’m terrible at maths.
Salma x
Hello! Can you please help a bit to explai the Slip Stitch Rib edge. I am new to knitting and I am trying to understand which part of your pattern is makes up the edges on both sides. Thank you! Hipe my questios makes sense but I really like how the edges look like and hope to use it for other knitting patterns as well.
Hi Alina,
Thanks for writing in. The first and last four stitches notated in each row will become the edges of the scarf! It’s essentially basic 1×1 ribbing, except you slip the first stitch. I hope this helps!
All the best,
Lili
Hi there, thank you for this pattern and I love to try knitting this scarf. I have a question about something weird happened after I tried making a swatch to see my gauge.
I casted on 35 stitches using long tail cast on with a circular needles. After the cast on, the stitches on the first row became 33 instead of 35. And if noticed that one of the edges of the swatch doesn’t look the same as the other edge, so it’s not parallel in terms of the edge of the scarf.
Do you know why is that? Will I cast on 37 stitches instead of 35 for my swatch?
Hi Hilda,
Thanks for reaching out. Are you noticing that your stitch count has decreased after working Row 1? If so, then it’s likely that you might have worked some of the p2tog’s without purling the first stitch again. That would definitely result in your stitch count being too low! I’d recommend casting on again, counting your stitches beforehand, and then working through Row 1 again. If you’re still encountering these issues, it would be great if you can email us a photo of your swatch at [email protected]. That way, we can better visualize what’s going on and give you more specific advice!
All the best,
Lili
Hello! Love this scarf. I’m allergic to wools, though — can you recommend a good plant-based yarn for this project? TY!
Hi CF,
Thanks for reaching out! I’d recommend choosing another worsted weight yarn, since that’s what this pattern was designed for. In particular, I think that Tulip Cotton would be a great choice! This yarn has really good stitch definition, so it will allow the herringbone pattern to really shine.
All the best,
Lili
I was having a hard time with the piece tilting and pattern looking a little off. After watching the video, and discovering the issue, I have a suggestion. I see others are having the same issue. I think that when the pattern says to knit into the slipped stitch before dropping it off, it should say to “knit it through the back loop”. I was knitting it through the front and that was where all the issues stemmed from! Thank you for this beautiful pattern and for sharing it for free
Hi Lauren,
Thanks for reaching out, and I can totally see where the confusion is coming from! It sounds like you may have lifted the slipped stitch up with your left needle and then completely removed it from the right needle before knitting it. This creates ambiguity, because you now have two different legs to choose from. However, if you just lift it up slightly (like what’s shown in the video), and knit it before removing it from and dropping it off the right needle, then there’s only one possible leg to knit into! I hope this explanation helps clarify things going forward!
All the best,
Lili
Beautiful stitch! I’m using the newer pattern – a bit sorry I hadn’t seen that I could have used the other pattern with the cool edge, but I love this anyway.
I’m using your Nigh DK cashmere – light as a feather!
I want to make a second scarf with a worsted self-striping cashmere I have. I think size 10 ½ works up well.
Big question, however! To highlight the long self-striping, I’d love to work lengthwise. Would you have any suggestions about how many stitches to cast on for that?
I realize the stitches will be going a different direction, but I think I might like that!
Thanks so much.
Hi Jenny,
That’s such a fun direction to take this design in! 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 total length you would like the scarf to be and cast on the nearest odd number of stitches. Then you can follow the pattern as written!
All the best,
Lili