Reversible Rivulet Scarf
Until recently, I thought reversible cables were like the Loch Ness monster: mythical, much-talked-about, but probably non-existent. After making many cabled scarves and always failing to feel satisfied with both sides, I went in quest of this mythical beast.
It turns out that, unlike the Loch Ness monster, reversible cables really do exist! Surprisingly, a ribbed stitch pattern, rather than plain stockinette, is all it takes to bring cables into the three-dimensional world.
Yarn lovers, if you adore the yarn used in this project, you’ll love exploring all of our other yarn collections! Discover over 45 thoughtfully designed yarns in nearly every natural fiber and in every spectacular color you can imagine. Only available here at Purl Soho’s online yarn store, where every skein is created with care and your creativity in mind!
Purl Soho’s Alpaca Pure, with its depth of color and clear stitch definition, casts my Reversible Rivulet Scarf in a glowing light. Each beautifully defined cable looks like a spiraling, rippling river, minus the monster! -Gina
Update: New Color
January 2018
The same gorgeous show of texture, pattern, and dimension, this time around we went with a softer tone in our Reversible Rivulet Scarf in Trout Brown, one of our very favorite Alpaca Pure colors!
Designed by Purl Soho designer, Gina Rockenwagner. Click here to see even more of Gina’s designs!
Share your progress and connect with the community by tagging your pics with #PurlSoho, #PurlSohoBusyHands, and #PurlSohoReversibleRivuletScarf. We can’t wait to see what you make!
Materials
- 4 (6, 7) skeins of Purl Soho’s Alpaca Pure, 100% super baby alpaca. Each skein is 109 yards/ 100 grams; approximately 436 (654, 763) yards required. We used the color Yellow Zest.
- US 9 (5.5 mm) straight or circular needles, any length
- A cable stitch holder
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
20 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches x 4 inches in stockinette stitch
Size
Approximately 6 (8, 10) inches wide and 70 inches long
Notes
This stitch pattern requires that you knit or purl every stitch through the back loop. Please see the Abbreviations and Tips section, below, for instructions on how to do that.
I used a tubular cast on and bind off for this scarf. Visit our Long Tail Tubular Cast On Tutorial and our Tubular Bind Off Tutorial for all the how-tos. These techniques create stretchier, more forgiving edges than a regular long cast on and bind off, but feel free to use those more common methods if you prefer. Your scarf will be just as beautiful!
Abbreviations + Tips
How to Knit Through the Back Loop (k1 tbl)
To knit through the back loop insert the right needle into the back leg of the next stitch in a regular away-from-you knitting motion, as shown above. Wrap and pull the yarn as you normally would to knit.
How to Purl Through the Back Loop (p1 tbl)
To purl through the back loop insert the right needle into the back leg of the next stitch in a regular toward-you purling motion, as shown above. Wrap and pull the yarn as you normally would to purl.
How To Make a Reversible Cable Cross (rcc)
Slip 4 stitches purlwise to cable stitch holder and hold in front of work, [p1 tbl, k1 tbl] twice from left needle, [p1 tbl, k1 tbl] twice from cable stitch holder.
Here’s how to do that…
Slip 4 stitches purlwise to a cable stitch holder: Insert the cable stitch holder into the next stitch on the left needle as if you were purling it and slide the stitch onto the cable stitch holder. Repeat three more times.
Keep the cable stitch holder at the front of the work: Allow the cables stitch holder to hang on the side of the work that is facing you.
[p1 tbl, k1 tbl] twice from the left needle: Use the right needle to work the next four stitches from the left needle.
Now, slide the slipped stitches to the other end of the cable stitch holder. Do not spin the cable stitch holder or try to knit the stitches from the same end that you used to slip the stitches.
[p1 tbl, k1 tbl] twice from the cable stitch holder: Use the right needle to work the four stitches from the cable stitch holder.
Pattern
Cast On
Using a Long Tail Tubular Cast On or a regular Long Tail Cast On, cast on 40 (56, 72) stitches.
If you use a Long Tail Tubular Cast On
There are a few of changes to make to our Long Tail Tubular Cast On Tutorial in order to suit this pattern:
After you make the slipknot, the next stitch you cast on should be a knit stitch (in the tutorial, it’s a purl stitch). Next, cast on a purl stitch, then a knit, and continue, alternating knits and purls as explained in the tutorial. End with knit stitch.
The Foundation Rows will then be as follows…
Foundation Row 1: *Slip 1 with yarn in front (wyif), k1, repeat from * to end of row.
Foundation Row 2: *Slip 1 wyif, k1 through the back loop, repeat from * to end of row.
Continue on to the Work Ribbing section, below.
If you use a Long Tail Cast On
Continue on to the Work Ribbing section.
Work Ribbing
Ribbing Row: *P1 tbl, k1 tbl, repeat from * to end of row. (See Abbreviations + Tips, above.)
Repeat the Ribbing Row until piece measures 4 inches from cast on edge.
Begin Cable Pattern
Cable Row 1: [Rcc (see Abbreviations + Tips, above), (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) 4 times] 2 (3, 4) times, rcc.
Rows 2 – 8: Repeat the Ribbing Row.
Cable Row 2: [P1 tbl, k1 tbl] 4 times, [rcc, (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) 4 times] 2 (3, 4) times.
Rows 10 – 16: Repeat the Ribbing Row.
Repeat these 16 rows until scarf measures 66 inches from cast on edge, ending with a Cable Row.
Finish
Repeat the Ribbing Row until work measures 70 inches from cast on edge.
If you used a tubular cast on, bind off using a tubular bind off.
If you used a long tail cast on, bind off in p1, k1 pattern.
Weave in the ends. Block gently and enjoy your Reversible Rivulet Scarf!
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!
Am i missing something?
i think there is a problem with the Cable Row 1
it begins with a RCC but does not appear to end with one
Hi! Thanks for pointing that out! The pattern has been corrected. Thank you for writing in! -Gina
With adding another RCC at the end of the first row, what is the proper stitch count for the first pattern row?
Hi Janet! Thanks for writing in with your question. The stitch count for the first pattern row will remain the same number as the cast on. Happy knitting! -Gina
Is there still an issue with the pattern on Cable Row 1? I am doing the cast on with 40 stitches. I cannot make Cable Row 1 as written work on just 40 stitches.
What i am following is:
[Rcc,(p1tbl,k1tbl)4 times] 2 times,Rcc.
Please help me see my error.
Hi Jayne,
Thanks for writing in! I think that I can help! I find that is sometimes helps to expand the directions for a row out and label the stitches used. For this row, an expanded version with stitch count would read:
Rcc – stitches 1-8
(p1tbl,k1tbl) – stitches 9-10
(p1tbl,k1tbl) – stitches 11-12
(p1tbl,k1tbl) – stitches 13-14
(p1tbl,k1tbl) – stitches 15-16
Rcc – stitches 17-24
(p1tbl,k1tbl) – stitches 25-26
(p1tbl,k1tbl) – stitches 27-28
(p1tbl,k1tbl) – stitches 29-30
(p1tbl,k1tbl) – stitches 31-32
Rcc – stitches 33-40
I hope that this helps clear things up!
Cassy
Thank you for your help. I ended up having to chart out both Cable Row 1 and 2. I am an experienced knitter, but LOL this one has truly stumped me and until I had every stitch charted I just kept messing up. ( As an aside, I have always found charts confusing before, LOL)
The ripping out by knitting backwards each time these rows didn’t work for me has been so frustrating…..ktbl is very challenging to ‘unknit’.
Thanks again!
Any chance of getting downloadable pdf’s for the free patterns? It would be nice. Thanks.
Hi Penny-
All of our patterns are available as free PDFs by using our print feature!
If you’re on a desktop version of the site, you will find a “print” icon in the right column just below the date and tags. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find a “print” icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Follow the easy on-screen instructions to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials.
Thanks for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
I concur with Penny. It would be WAY easier to provide us with a PDF that we could download. The “Print” feature is a bit wonky, with images sometimes taking up the bulk of a page and leaving no room for text on that same page, etc. Although you can delete some of the images, it’s always nice to have a couple, but with this Print function, it isn’t easy to wind up with a useful and fairly compact printout–this system just feels old-fashioned for 2016. Please consider including a link to a downloadable PDF, just like virtually all other pattern-writers do.
Thank you!
Hello, Beverly!
Thank you for writing in! I am sorry to hear that you find the “Print” feature to be wonky! As we wrote to Penny, you’re welcome (and encouraged!) to tailor the pattern to suit your needs before creating your PDF. After clicking “Print” you are able to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials. Once you’ve done that you can click the “PDF” icon and a PDF will be created based upon the changes you’ve made. Creating our “Print” feature in this way allows folks to customize the look of the pattern to suit their needs/wants.
I am sorry if this feels old-fashioned. We are always looking for ways to improve upon the usability of our site and we greatly appreciate your feedback regarding this. Please let us know if you have further questions/concerns.
Best wishes,
Kumeko
You mention …this pattern n scarf require 4 skeins of purl Soho pure alpaca….
Can I know each skein is how many meters or yards.
Thank you
Hi Ramalakshmi-
All of the info on this yarn can be found by clicking on the link in the Materials section which will lead you here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/9307-Purl-Soho-Alpaca-Pure
Each skein of Alpaca Pure contains approximately 109 yards.
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
What a stunning scarf. I love the design. I have a broken wrist and am unable to knit but, just reading this very well written pattern has given me comfort and is a design I intend to try once I get my hands back on the needles!
This is going on my ‘to do’ list!
Thank you Molly.
What a stunner … and that fabulous acid pop of the colour.
So right with those “reversible” monsters – but you got it nailed with this pattern! Just beautiful.
wow … gorgeous … very creative.
thankyou so much!
I don’t how many times that I have tried to print out your patterns, but I always get a watermark of your header on all the pages, obscuring some of the directions. any suggestions?
Hi Josephine-
Are you using our “print” button to print? If not here are some instructions:
If you’re on a desktop version of the site, you will find a “print” icon in the right column just below the date and tags. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find a “print” icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Follow the easy on-screen instructions to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials.
If you follow these instructions you should not get our logo at the top of every page. If you are following these instructions and are still having issues please let us know! Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Thank you so much!! for posting this pattern. A few years ago a similar scarf was published on a web site and the pattern wasn’t available or cost far more than I could pay so I tried to duplicate it on my own and for some reason I just couldn’t get the ripply affect to come out so gave up. The fact that it is reversible makes it much easier to wear–you can actually wrap it on attractively without a mirror!
This is absolutely beautiful – totally my taste!
Thank you for sharing the pattern.
Thank you! This is so pretty & unique!
It calls for 4,6 ,7 skeins of yarn. Can you tell me what the estimated length would be for each od the called for number of skeins?
Hi Heydebbi-
The different yarn amounts will yield scarves with different widths, not different lengths. The finished sizes are listed under the “size” headline in the pattern. I’ve also copied that info here:
Size
Approximately 6 (8, 10) inches wide and 70 inches long
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
But, if you knit and purl into the back loop, won’t your stitches be twisted? I’m confused.
Hi Val, Great question! Yes, the stitches will be twisted when you knit in this way, but that’s intentional! Twisted stitches seem odd to work, because they’re the opposite of what we are taught when we learn to knit. But twisted stitches have incredible stitch definition, so I chose to twist all the stitches in this scarf. It makes the cable pattern sing! Thanks for writing us and please let me know if you have any other questions. -Gina
Thank you for this pretty pattern and the picture showing how to do this I feel I can do it and want to try.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to make (free) so special and beautiful garments.
Why is everything TBL? Would it not work to K&P in the traditional manner?
Hi Michelle, Thanks for writing us! I liked the extra stitch definition of the twisted stitches. I feel it gives the stitch pattern a neater look. But the reversible cable still works with a regular k1 p1 rib (not twisted), it just has a slightly different look from the twisted stitches. Please let me know if I can help with any other questions! All my best, Gina
Reportedly received this recipe in email. But did not. Could send me again?
Sorry, do not know English, I’m using google translate
Angela de Vasconcellos Ramos
Hello Angela-
This pattern is available to download here, for free.
If you’re on a desktop version of the site, you will find a “print” icon in the right column just below the date and tags. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find a “print” icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Follow the easy on-screen instructions to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials.
Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
My cast on has my first stitch a knit instead of a purl, will that throw off the cable or make the edge less finished? Thanks
Hi Mary, This is a great question. It does not matter at all if your first stitch is a k tbl or p tbl. The scarf will look exactly the same either way. But, if you feel more comfortable knitting exactly as the pattern is written, make sure your first stitch cast on after the slip knot loop is a knit stitch, so reach to the back first, in an away-from-you motion, to cast on your first stitch. Either way you choose to do it, you will achieve the same results. Thanks so much for writing in. Enjoy your day! -Gina
I had this same issue at the start…a result of following the instructions from the provided tutorial when pattern instructions made a subtle change that differ from the tutorial.
I struggle with twisted stitches. It throws of my whole rhythm. Hire different would this look with regular stitches? Would it still be a reversible cable?
Hi Emily, Thanks for writing us with your question! This will still be a reversible cable if you knit the stitches regular (i.e. without the twist). I found I preferred the extra stitch definition of the twisted stitches, but the pattern will definitely work if you don’t twist the stitches. It will just look slightly different. Please let me know if you have any other questions! Happy knitting – Gina
Love the cable stitch ing on the Reversible Rivulet scarf· Hope you don’t mind , I past it on to my granddoughter, she loves mine, she made her own, we’re both happy.
Hi,
Can this be worked in the round for an infinity cowl? If so what are the modifications we would have to make?
Hi Lisa, This could definitely be made as an infinity cowl, but I wouldn’t knit it in the round. I would cast on, either provisionally or with a regular cast on, then work the ribbing row for 7 rows. Follow the pattern until the scarf measures about 1 inch shorter than you want it. Work the ribbing row for 7 more rows, then bind off and sew, or graft the two ends together. Thanks so much for writing us with your question. Please let me know if I can help with any more! – Gina
This is such a beautiful scarf. Love the stitch pattern and the color! I haven’t knit a scarf in a long time, but this one is tempting me. Thanks for all your free patterns!
Thanks so much for reading, Monika, and for your kind words! All my best, Gina
Oh I love this ! I have to try it sometimes !
(and the color is quite gorgeous too)
Thank you so much Woola!
How wide is the scarf modelled in the photos? Was it made using 4, 6 or 7 skeins?
Hi Heather! Thanks for writing us. The scarf in the photos was made with 6 skeins. Please let me know if I can help with any other questions! All my best, Gina
I just received my beautiful yarn from you but have a question. The cable row is hard for me to understand. Do you start with the rcc, then p1tbl, k1 tbl, 4 times? Then what does the 2(3,4), and finally, rcc again? I need it simplified.
Hi Jeanne,
Thanks for writing us! Which width of the scarf are you making?
The 2(3,4) refers to the number of times you will repeat the previous set of stitches across the width of the scarf. If you’re making the narrower version, you’ll repeat those stitches two times, If you’re making the medium version, you’ll repeat those stitches 3 times, if you’re making the widest version, you’ll repeat those stitches 4 times.
Via email, I received a similar question about the cable rows from another reader. Here’s what I wrote to her…
Which width of the scarf are you making? 4, 6 or 7 skeins? I’m going to assume that you’re doing the 6 skein one.
Lets break down the cable rows so that the pattern is completely written out. Here’s each cable row written out (for the 6 skein version):
Cable Row 1: [Rcc, (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) (p1 tbl, k1 tbl)] repeat the entire bracketed section 3 times, rcc.
Cable Row 2: [P1 tbl, k1 tbl] [P1 tbl, k1 tbl] [P1 tbl, k1 tbl] [P1 tbl, k1 tbl], [rcc, (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) ] repeat the last bracketed section 3 times.
Does that help at all?
Let me try to phrase it a different way.
If you’re making the 6 skein version, you essentially are working 7 groups of 8 stitches. Each 8 stitch group is a cable, but each group only cables every other cable row. So thinking about it this way, here’s how I would write out each cable row:
Cable row 1: Rcc, 8 stitches in ribbing pattern, Rcc, 8 stitches in ribbing pattern, Rcc, 8 stitches in ribbing pattern, Rcc.
Cable row 2: 8 stitches in ribbing pattern, Rcc, 8 stitches in ribbing pattern, Rcc, 8 stitches in ribbing pattern, Rcc, 8 stitches in ribbing pattern.
In between each cable row, you’re just doing 7 rows of ribbing pattern.
… Does that help to answer your question? I hope so! But if it doesn’t, please let me know if I can help more! I hope you can get started on this scarf soon!
All my best, Gina
I don’t think the rcc scarf is written so even novices can read. I had to call the shop and then also have someone very knit-gifted figure it out. It was not easy for her either. Would you rewrite the rcc part so it is easier to read please.
Hi Jeanne,
Thanks for writing us! I’m so sorry you’re having trouble with this pattern. It’s not really a beginner pattern but we certainly aim to make all of our patterns as simple to follow as possible! We are happy to help you through any steps you’re having trouble with! Is there something in particular that you’re stuck on? Please let us know!
Yes, thank you it helps. I am casting on 40 and i ended up with 3 cables across. Thats not right is it.
Hi Jeanne, Thanks for writing us with your question! Yes, that’s correct. The 40 stitch version of the scarf will have 5 cables, 8 stitches each. So cable row 1 will have 3 cables and cable row 2 will have 2 cables. Please let me know if I can help with any other questions! -Gina
I was wondering if I could substitute the yarn with the Purl Soho Worsted Twist? I love the Silver Lilac color!
Thanks!
Hello Adrienne,
Thank you for the comment! You can absolutely do this project in the Worsted Twist and I think it would be beautiful in the Silver Lilac color! I would recommend doing a gauge swatch with the Worsted Twist as you may want to try one or two needle sizes smaller to achieve the proper gauge!
Please feel free to write back with anymore questions!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
Just following up that this has been quite successful! I used a #7 needle.
Hello and thank you so much for your lovely creations, always inspiring !
I was wondering why you’re using US#9 needles, while US#7-8 needles are suggested on the Alpaca Pure link… Is it because of this particular stitch pattern ?
Congratulations from Lyon, France for your work 😉 !
Anouch
Hey Anouch,
Thank you for the very kind comment! You are absolutely correct the larger needle is for the stitch pattern. I also always recommend you do a gauge swatch to achieve the right gauge because everyone knits differently!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
Hi again ! Finally trying to finish my scarf with the tubular bind off, I’m wondering if the stitches must be twisted in the set-up rows, or just slipped and knitted normally ? Thanks for your help !
Anouch
Hello Anouch!
Great question! You don’t need to continue twisting the stitches. Since these set up rows create the beginning of the rounded bind off edging, they serve a specific function and won’t visibly interrupt the pattern. Best of luck binding off! -Alyson
When using the long tail tubular cast on, do you continue withLTTC first & second rows or do you start Rivulet ribbing right away?
Hi Judith, Thanks for writing us! You do continue with the LTTC first and second rows. After you’ve done the first two rows of the long tail tubular cast on, then you start with the rivulet ribbing. Please let me know if I can help with any other questions! Happy knitting! -Gina
I cast on 56 and I thought I would have an 8 inch scarf. I only did a few rows and my scarf measured 15 inches. I am using the us 9 needle. What am I doing wrong? I used the tubular cast on.
Hi Debra,
Thanks for writing us with your question.
A couple things could be happening here.
My first thought is perhaps you have not knit enough rows to assess the full width of the scarf. For some knitters, the tubular cast on is looser than the body stitches, causing the edge to flare out slightly. The twisted rib stitch does pull the edge in, but you’ll need to knit at least an inch in twisted rib before it starts to pull the edge in. If you’ve knit a couple inches and the edge still flares out, you should reknit the tubular cast on with smaller needles.
A second possibility is that your gauge on #9 needles is looser than my gauge. You could change to #8 or #7 needles, knit another inch, and see if that helps to pull in the width of the scarf.
Let me know how this goes for you. If none of my suggestions work, I’m happy to help you trouble shoot more. I hope this helps! Have a great day -Gina
I love this pattern! Just one question, when you grab the 4 stitches onto the cable needle do you go thru the front or back of the stitch? Thank you!
Hi Connie,
Thank you for the comment! You want to slip the stitches purl wise onto the cable stitch holder. You will then go through the back loops to twist the stitches when you are knitting those stitches from the cable holder. If you were to slip them through the back loop it would cancel out the twisted stitches created in the knitting!
I hope this clarifies and feel free to write back if you have anymore questions!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
I’m loving this scarf (used the Worsted Twist) so much I’m going to use some Cascade Superwash 220 to knit a baby blanket. Is it fair to say that I can achieve a similar gauge with the Cascade 220?
Hi Adrienne-
Yes, I think that will work! Just make sure to do a gauge swatch before you begin to determine your needle size.
Good luck with the project!
Molly
Hi! I’m having trouble with the RCC part.
“Slip 4 stitches purlwise to cable stitch holder and hold in front of work, [p1 tbl, k1 tbl] twice from left needle, [p1 tbl, k1 tbl] twice from cable stitch holder.”
You say to do it twice. Does that mean alternately? Like I slip 4 stitches purlwise to cable stitch holder then [p1 tbl, k1 tbl] from left needle. Then do it again with the right needle from cable stitch holder. Then i slip 4 stitches purlwise again and [p1 tbl, k1 tbl] from both ends ?
How many stitches does the RCC consume?
I’m doing a 4 skein by the way. Sorry i’ve been trying to understand the pattern because I really like it but I can’t get past the RCC part 🙁
Hi Michiko, sorry you’ve been having trouble! It’s a common place to get stuck, but an easy fix. When you see a series of stitches marked off in brackets as the “p1 tbl, k1 tbl” is in this case, that means you work only what’s designated inside of the brackets for the number of times given right after them. So here, you would slip 4 stitches purl wise to your cable stitch holder and hold the stitches in front of your work. Then you will p1 tbl, k1 tbl two times, in that order, from the left needle, and then repeat this with the stitches on your cable needle, pl tbl, k1 tbl twice, in order. There are a total of 8 stitches for the RCC, and [p1 tbl, k1 tbl] twice consumes a total of 4 stitches. Please let us know if this makes sense! Being mindful of the brackets and what’s inside of them is all it takes. Good luck and thanks for writing!
I finally got it! Thanks so much!
Wonderful, Michiko! Good luck with the scarf!
Hi,
I love to,are this chunky bright scarf for my daughter , can I use your Mulbery & silk for this project? As I notice they are on sale now?
Your prompt response is much appreciated.
Regards,
Rox
Hi Rox,
You would absolutely be able to make The Reversible Rivulet Scarf with the Mulberry Merino yarn, it would just be a finer knit than the sample, which was made with Alpaca Pure. The Mulberry Merino suggests a knitting needle size of between 5-7. All this means is that if you decide to make the scarf with the Mulberry Merino, it would be best to knit up a small swatch of the pattern with a needle between sizes 5-7 (you could try a size 6) and see how you like it. It will be beautiful, just not as wide or chunky as the scarf shown. Let us know if you have additional questions or if we can help further in any way! Thanks for writing!
Could you please tell me the number of cast on stitches (scarf width) that were used in your beautiful sample for this scarf?
Thanks!!
Hello Joan,
The pattern has three different widths! There is a pattern for 6, 8, 10 inches wide and the corresponding cast on numbers are 40, 56, 72 stitches. We made up the medium width for the sample. Enjoy! -Alyson
Hi, don’t bother to answer me: I swatched (turned out OK) + I just saw you already answered a similar question, I had missed it the first time. Thank you for your beautiful joyful creations. I won’t miss Purl Soho if I go to NY again some day! (I’m from Paris)
No worries! We’re so glad that you figured it out and enjoy our patterns! Happy knitting! -Alyson
Hi Purl Gals,
I’m just a little confused from the beginning… I did the longtail tubular cast-on with 40 stitches (and then subsequent two foundation rows). Now, row 1 is starting p1, k1 through back loops, but with an even number of stitches and following the established cast-on and foundation chain (which created stitch pattern of k1, p1), this seems opposite?
Thanks for any clarification,
Brynn
Hello Brynn!
So sorry for the delay in responding. I think you have found a hole in our pattern! I have our pattern experts double checking it and we will be back with you as soon as we can. In my opinion it does seem opposite to me as well. Stay tuned and we will contact you pronto!
-Alyson
Alyson,
Have you figured out how the scarf should be started. I finished the first 4″ but cannot continue for the same reason Brynn pointed out. Your help will be greatly appreciated.
Roxana
Hi, Roxana!
Thank you so much for writing in! We are still looking into this, but we will be in touch with you as soomn as we get it figured out! Thank you for your patience!
Best,
Kumeko
How was brynn’s question answered from Oct 14, 2015 ? I have the same situation and I’m ready to RCC and cannot because of the same dilemma. Thanks!
Hi, Liz!
Thank you so much for writing in! We are still looking into this, but we will be in touch with you as soon as we get it figured out! Thank you so much for your patience!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I too would like the answer to Byrnn’s original question. After my cast on my first stitch is knit stitch. Do I still start the ribbing row as it states(P1 tbl)?
Hello Julia,
Thanks for writing in! We have experimented with this pattern and realized that you are right about the tubular cast on looking funny if you follow our tutorial. The great thing about the tubular cast on is that you can decide whether to cast on a knit stitch or a purl stitch. We have edited the pattern to cast on a knit stitch after the slip knot and then we continued in 1×1 rib cast on pattern after that. You will treat the first stitch as a purl and the second stitch as a knit, ending the row on a knit. Please click here for the updated pattern!
Best,
Adam
Hello I love this scarf thanks for sharing. Will this pattern work with merino script? Please advise
Hello Maggie!
This pattern calls for a thick worsted weight yarn, or aran weight, that definitely is similar to the Merino Script! Just keep in mind that Merino Script has a slub or thick and thin quality that will give the pattern a different look since the yarn that we used doesn’t have that quality. When changing yarn, you should always do a little swatch so that you can make sure you like the combo!
Best of luck! -Alyson
Thank you for such a beautiful scarf pattern. Your edges are so neat. Mine are a mess. Can you tell me how you achieved such wonderful edges.
Hello Mary!
Are you twisting the stitches as written in the pattern? That should keep the edges tight and neat. What does your edging look like? Usually if you knit the first stitch a little extra tightly, it will help the edges as well. Best of luck and feel free to send over a picture to customerservice AT purlsoho DOT com and we can work on troubleshooting together more carefully! -Alyson
I am knitting this scarf and I LOVE it! I want it to be longer and need 2 more skeins of color 1380 and dye lot 6979. Please can you help? I was not able to reach y by phone. Please let me know what to do. thanks
Hello Diana!
I have forwarded your requests to our retail customer service team and we will be getting in touch with you again shortly about this dye lot! We’re so happy you love the scarf. Enjoy! -Alyson
Gorgeous pattern. Would this work as a baby blanket?
Hello, Aisha.
We are so glad that you like the pattern and thank you for your question! You could definately use this pattern to make a baby blanket! To get a blanket that is about 32″ wide (a typical width for a baby blanket) I recommend casting on 160 stitches. Then just knit the pattern until you get your desired length.
Happy knitting,
Kumeko
Hi,
I’ve done the first row of RCC, but it looks like it creates an extra twist if I take the stiches on the holder purlwise. Are you sure? It seems that taking them knitwise would do the trick (since they are taken from one side but knit on the other). Am I wrong? Thanks!
Hello, Laure!
Thank you for writing in! Yes, you’ll want to slip the 4 stitches purlwise to the cable stitch holder. This pattern was designed to have that twist. If you have further questions, please let us know! Thanks, again!
Happy knitting,
Kumeko
I just made this as a Christmas gift and it was stunning. My sister-in-law loved it so much I want to make matching mittens and possibly a hat to go with. Any pattern suggestions that would go with this scarf in alpaca pure? Thanks you so much for the beautiful scarf pattern!!
Hi, Emily!
Thank you for writing in! I am delighted to hear that your sister-in-law loved your scarf and thank you for lovely comment! Unfortunately, we don’t have a hat pattern that would match this scarf pattern in Alpaca Pure. We have the Chunky Cable Hat which would match in pattern, but not yarn (https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/01/20/chunky-cable-hat/). Then there’s the Boyfriend Hat which complents any scarf, but again it calls for a different yarn (https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/10/24/the-boyfriend-hat-in-line-weights-newest-colors/).
We do have the Traveling Cable Hat which is knit in Alpaca Pure, but the cables are a bit more traditional than the “cables” in the Reversible Rivulet Scarf (https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/09/04/traveling-cable-hat/).
I hope that you find these suggestions inspiring. If you have further questions, please let us know! Again, thank your for your comment!
Best,
Kumeko
I haven’t found another knit/crochet/sewing shop in a brick and mortar store or online that is so together. The free patterns, the kits, the yarn choices and the friendly help you offer is second to none. Thank you for being!
I have been staring at the scarf, I never did cables….would it look OK if I just forgot re the cables? would the scarf look chic or tacky?
I am too scared to try the cables….thank you, jo
Hi Jo,
Thank you for your question. If you forgo the cables, it would be a 1×1 rib scarf which is a classic pattern and is always chic. Knitting and purling through the back loops will really make the rib pop.
Happy knitting!
Anna
Have only been knitting for a little over a year now. I’m having a lot of fun with this project. It’s a great way to learn about working into the back of the loops and doing cable work. Thanks.
As a new knitter, I’m ready to tackle cables and this pattern is the one I want to make. Plus, it’s reversible! I’d like to use Mulberry Merino and make a scarf about 8 inches wide. How many skeins would I need?
Thanks for your beautiful patterns and inspiring website.
Hi there!
This sounds like a great idea! I love this scarf too and the fact that it’s reversible is such a plus. Since the Mulberry Merino is a thinner yarn, you’ll have to adjust the cast on amount and the needle size. This is easy though! Just add multiples of 16 on to the largest cast on in the pattern. You’ll want to do a gauge swatch to determine your stitches per inch and then multiply that number by 8 for to get your round about cast on. I think that a scarf like this will take five skeins of Mulberry Merino, but that is a rough estimate based on similar patterns. If you want to buy a sixth skein, you can exchange it for store credit if you don’t wind it or use it. I hope you like the project! Thanks again for writing in!
-Adam
Thanks so much for the quick and thorough reply! Now to decide which color….
Do you think this would work as a colourblocked scarf with the Alpaca Pure, or should I stick to just one colour? There are some lovely blues and greys on sale right now, and I’m trying to decide if using more than one colour would take away from the cables or not. Advice would be appreciated!
Hi Rebecca,
Thanks for writing in! At the end of the day this is going to be a project that you’ll be working on for a little bit, so I always suggest to go with how you feel. However, I have always been a proponent of cables in a single color. Cables have a lot of personality and texture, so I like to let them stand out as the stars of the work. That being said, I would personally do this in a single color. Since you are looking at the sale yarn, why not make two!
Best of luck and happy knitting,
Adam
Hi! I have a question about the care for Alpaca Pure. I made this scarf and a hat for my boyfriend’s birthday using Alpaca Pure, and I’m wondering if I should wash them before gifting to him (I washed my hands before working on them, but still think my hands got pretty sweaty once in a while..). I checked the recommended care for this yarn on Purl Soho’s website, and it said hand wash and lay flat to dry. Is it possible to take it to dry cleaning? I’ve never washed alpaca and/or hand knitted items at home before, and given how long it took for me to finish this scarf, I really don’t want anything to happen to it… so thought dry cleaning might be safer. It’d be great if you could advise! Thank you.
Hi Izumi,
Thanks for writing in! You can absolutely hand wash or dry clean your item. I would recommend hand washing as you can be very gentle and diligent with your lovely piece. To hand wash your finished piece, fill a basin with tepid water and put in a small amount of Soak or other wool wash. Submerge your item completely and leave for 15 minutes. Return and gently squeeze (do not wring) out most of the water. Then gently lay the item flat on a dry towel until totally dry. This will ensure that your item is clean and gently handled!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Thank you so much Cassy! I’ll buy Soak and try washing the scarf and the hat as gentle as possible!
As Cassy has said, you should ALWAYS wash your knitted items to call it finished. Most especially if you are gifting it. That will make it look totally professionally finished!
I do it the same way Cassy says…. fill a sink with hot tap water, add liquid detergent, and lay the scarf in the water, and WALK AWAY!! never touch for at least 15-30 minutes, or until the water cools enough to handle it. Then squeeze, and dry as normal. The trick is not to touch it at all while it is being soaked!!
This allows the stitches to even themselves out, and adjust to their new position, and look so very even! It is a remarkable change. Do the same whenever it needs to be cleaned — offer to do it yourself — the soaking will remove any soil from the scarf.
I have some Cashmere Bloom I would like to use. Do you think it would work well with this pattern? Is yes, what size needles and how many to cast on? Thanks!
This will be my 3rd Cashmere Bloom scarf – totally love working with the yarn and wearing a finished project.
Hi Sandy,
Thanks for writing in! We are so glad that you are loving our Cashmere Merino Bloom. You can certainly use it here. I would suggest going down to a US 7 or 8 needle. I would suggest knitting a gauge swatch and seeing which fabric you like better and then going with that needle. The scarf will be slightly more narrow but certainly generous enough to be lovely! Just note that depending on the size you go with, you may need slightly less yarn. You will need 3, 4 or 5 skeins!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
I would like to try to make this scarf. In your pattern you mentioned 2(3,4). What does this mean? And your ribbing row, RS & WS are the same way doing it?
Thanks & Regards,
Valerie T
Hi Valerie,
Thanks for writing in! I think that I can help with your questions! For the ribbing section you will repeat the one row until you reach the desired length. For the 2 (3, 4), I am guessing that you are referring to the Begin Cable Pattern section. Here this refers to the number of times that you will complete the repeat based on whether you are knitting the 6, 8 or 10 inch wide version of this scarf.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Hi, I always add 2 stitches to slip first stitch purlwise knit the last and have a pretty edge. Would/can I do this here too? Thank you
Hi Maria,
Thanks for writing us! I don’t see why you couldn’t add two stitches for the selvedge! Best of luck!
-Adam
The normal edges of my twisted rib are unsightly; every other edge stitch is baggy. I’d rather not slip the 1st stitch for this rib pattern as suggested because it creates an edge stitch that is twice as long. How did the knitter in the photo above get such tidy edges?
Hi Lisa,
I’m sorry to hear you are having trouble with your edge stitches! This is a very common problem for many knitters – no one has absolutely perfect tension, and tension irregularities tend to be more noticeable at the edges, especially if either your purls or knits are looser than the other stitch, which sounds like it may be the case. I would try paying extra attention to the first three stitches of each row, giving a little tug on the yarn after each stitch to snug it up, especially when bringing your yarn forward to purl after a knit, for a few inches to see if that solves the problem.
Best of luck! I hope that helps!
Julianna
I saw that you said this pattern could be knit in the round. Does that change how you would knit what is considered the wrong side rows?
Hi Kathleen,
Thanks for writing in! The only reference to knitting this in the round that I could find was Gina suggesting not to knit it in the round. If you would like to make this into an infinity scarf or cowl, you would cast on, either provisionally or with a regular cast on, then work the ribbing row for 7 rows. Follow the pattern until the scarf measures about 1 inch shorter than you want it. Work the ribbing row for 7 more rows, then bind off and sew, or graft the two ends together.
I hope that this helps and please let me know if you have any further questions!
Cassy
I am making a hat using this pattern knitting in the round and it is working out just fine. Cast on a multiple of 16 stitches. You would work RCC in rows 1, 9, 17 and so on (which are your right side rows) and work ribbing (p1 tbl, k1 tbl) in all other rows. Make sure to start your round with a purl stitch.
Hello Anya,
Thank you for sharing your insights- I’m happy to hear your experiment was a success!
Happy knitting,
Marilla
Hi,
The pattern is so beautiful!
I have a question concerning the size of the needles for this project.
You’ve used Alpaca Pure for this project with US 9 needles. However, the suggested knitting needle for this yarn is US 7-8 size. So when picking up a yarn, the idea is to use a bigger needle size than suggested?
Thank a lot,
Hello Amandine,
Thank you for reaching out- you are correct! The needle sizing is really about gauge rather than suggested needle size. So as long as you are getting 5 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch you are good to go.
I hope this clears things up. Happy knitting!
-Marilla
oh, goodness, ignore my question….. I somehow overlooked RCC at the very end of the cable row. I am so sorry to bother you!
Hi Karen,
We’re glad you figured it out! Please feel free to reach out with any further questions!
Kindly,
Anna
I would really like for this pattern to be offered as a .pdf file that I could print/save as a single page. Having all of the extended instructions and photographs is very helpful for novice knitters, but are unnecessary for more experienced knitters.
Hi Kitty,
Thanks for writing in! All of our patterns can be downloaded as PDFs!
If you’re on a desktop version of the site, you will find a “print” icon in the right column just below the date and tags. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find a “print” icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Follow the easy on-screen instructions to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials. To remove images, click the drop down next to the image icon and change from 100% to 0%.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Is there a pdf file so I can sace it to work on later? Thanks.
Hi Mary,
Thanks for writing in! You certainly can download this pattern as a PDf!
f you’re on a desktop version of the site, you will find a “print” icon in the right column just below the date and tags. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find a “print” icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Follow the easy on-screen instructions to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials. To remove images, click the drop down next to the image icon and change from 100% to 0%.
Best,
Cassy
Can you advise what size needles to use if I wanted to make this using fingering yarn? Love the pattern – thank you so much!
cheers
Heather
Hi Heather,
Thanks for writing in! For fingering weight, I would suggest trying a US 3 or 4. The size of needle will really depend on your personal gauge. I would knit about 10 rows with each needle and see how you like the fabric that it creates and base your decision on which you like best!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Is there a video tutorial on this beautiful pattern? I am a visual learner and I am having a hard time following the instructions. Thanks so much!
Hi Allison,
Thanks for writing in and for your kind words! While we do not have a video for this pattern, we do have a video for the cast on and a photo tutorial for the bind off for this lovely scarf. We will certainly keep your request in mind for the future!
Best,
Cassy
What other types of yarn can be used in place of the alpaca?
Many thanks,
Peggy
Hi Peggy,
Thank you for writing in! For this lovely scarf, you can use any Worsted or Aran weight yarn! Our Worsted Twist would be a great option! I would recommend doing a gauge swatch with the Worsted Twist as you may want to try one or two needle sizes smaller to achieve a pleasing gauge for the stitch pattern!
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
I am just starting the cable pattern. I’m using the 40 stitch size for the scarf and find that I have 8 stitches left over at the end of the cable row 1. Am I missing something? What am I supposed to do with the 8 stitches? Thanks!
Sorry, missed the RCC at the end of row 1! It all makes sense now. Thanks.
I learned to knit when I was very little from my German Mom, so I use the continental method. Although I have watched videos, I have always had a problem with the twisted rib pattern that I chalked up to the right handed hold. I have frogged several lovely projects that contained too much of the twisted rib because it is so painfully slow for me. Because this pattern is so basic, I was able to experiment a bit and had a major breakthrough that I wanted to share in case anyone else has experienced the same problems.
First, I realized that I was wrapping the P1TBL the wrong way, so corrected that (just a heads up in case it isn’t clear to others). At any rate, I restarted on a pair of clear plastic needles because they were short and I thought would be easier to handle. After a few inches I realized that the fact that they were clear was making it difficult to figure out exactly what I was grabbing in the back- just visually throwing me off. Switched to metal needles and was ready to give up after a few more rows because everything was slipping and it was a super tedious two-handed process that required picking up lots of dropped stitches. My aha moment was when I realized that the problem was the needles. I changed to bamboo and the grippy-ness made all the difference. I’m about 10 inches in now and it’s miraculous. I’m ready to re-visit some frogged projects with bamboo needles now!
Hi Paula,
Thanks for writing in and sharing your experience! I am sure that it will be helpful for others giving this lovely scarf a try!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Paula, Yes; I had the very same problem; and once I switched to bamboo needles it worked so much better.
Thanks for that suggestion! M.
I love the pattern and would like to make a stole. What’s the base number of stitches to multiply?
Hi Julia,
Thanks for reaching out and for the kind words! This pattern will work over any multiple of 8 stitches.
I hope that helps and best of luck!
Julianna
Could the Reversible Rivulet pattern be made in a cowl? How would that be done? I was thinking of Alpaca Pure in Artemisia or Lavender Opal, to wear with neutral solid color sweaters or raincoat. This is my first cowl and first knitting in a long time, so is this pattern perhaps too ambitious?
I also wondered for what kind of pattern is Tosh Merino Modern Fair Isle intended? It’s out of stock currently, but I love the bright colors speckled sparsely on an heirloom white background. It might make a lovely cowl. I like Tosh Night Bloom as well. The effect of a single strand must be different from twisted yarsn.
Hello Judy,
Thank you for reaching out- all of your yarn ideas sound beautiful! Unfortunately, this pattern does not work well in the round I would suggest knitting your cowl flat and then seaming up the ends to create your cow.
I hope this helps and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Hi!??♀️
I am really having trouble understanding the first cable row! When I slip purlwise the first 4 stitches, my working yarn is with the slipped stitches on the cable holder. How do I proceed w p1 tbl, k1 tbl? I feel like I’m really missing something obvious! Help! I await your response so I can get past the ribbing!!
Thanks in advance!??♀️
Brenda
Hello Brenda,
Thank you for reaching out! As you let your 4 slipped stitches hang in front of your work you will want to bring your working yarn behind the stitches on your cable needle and simply start knitting your stitches still on your needle. As you do this your stitches on your cable needle will fall to the side of your work.
I hope this clears things up for you and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Thanks. I’ve cabled before but somehow w the combination of ktbl/ptbl, I wasn’t able to jump into the first cable row! It was totally foreign to me!
Thanks for your help!
Brenda
this pattern would greatly benefit from adding a chart and not just written instructions…
Hi Gurianthe,
Thanks so much for your feedback! Unfortunately we don’t have the resources at the moment to create a chart for this pattern. We will keep your request in mind though for the future!
Best,
Julianna
I would like to make the elementary wrap on your site but with the pattern of the rivulet scarf. The cast on for the elementary wrap is 90 stitches and I read on the comments that someone wanted to make a stole, so the cast on is a multiple of 8…? Would I then cast on 88 or 96 stitches then to incorporate these two patterns together? Just wanted to make sure. Thank you, love the patterns on this site.
Lunabelle
Hello Lunabelle,
Thank you for reaching out- what a great idea! For this pattern you will need a cast on of 16 stitches so 96 stitches should work beautifully.
let us know hoe it goes and happy knitting!
-Marilla
I fell in love with this yarn, I’m so sad it’s discontinued, which yarn would match this color as closely as possible? Please help!
Hi Raven,
Thanks for writing in! Yellow Zest was quite a unique color that is hard to match! The closest colors I can think of would be Manos del Uruguay Maxima in Highlighter or Blue Sky Worsted Cotton in Lemongrass.
I hope that helps!
Julianna
I’m sorry to ask a silly question but I was wondering if you could clarify whether the Foundation Row 1 is intended to be regular knit or knit through the back stitch? I’m trying to follow along with the cast-on and I’m not sure if this is supposed to be a change from the tutorial or not? Thank you!
Hello Kim,
This is a great question! If you are using the long tail tubular cast on you will knit normally in foundation row 1 and through the back loop in row 2.
I hope this clears things up and happy knitting!
-Marilla
Hello,
I have tried 8 times to knit this scarf but I can’t manage the RCC rows.
If I understand correctly, the RCC consists of 3 steps:
1. Moving 4 stitches to a cable needle,
2. K,P the next 4 stitches
3. K,P the 4 stitches from the cable needle
Then, you have to (K1,P1 ) 4 times (which means that you need to knit 8 stitches in total. Then repeat the RCC and (K1,P1) 4 times.
Do you have a video tutorial or a graphic pattern I can look at?
I like this scarf.
Thank you,
Bryan
Hi Bryan,
Thanks for reaching out! Unfortunately we do not have a chart for this pattern, but it sounds like you’ve got it – the steps you describe should turn out correctly. Can you describe what exactly is going wrong so I can try to help troubleshoot this for you?
Best,
Julianna
Could this scarf be knitted as a turtleneck scarf? Could I knit the tails at the same time to ensure the same length, then work the turtleneck ribbing as the same as called for in the pattern? If so, I would appreciate any assistance.
Hello Joanna,
Thank you for reaching out! I am not familiar with a turtleneck scarf. Is it a turtle neck style cowl with two tails coming out of it to wrap around your neck like a scarf? If so I would you knit your tails and then join them to knit the neck in the round? Apologies for not being more helpful, let me know if I can further assist you!
Happy knitting,
Marilla
Do you have the instructions written out in one whole place? I love that you show how each of the stitches are done, because I am super super new to knitting and have only done vanilla knits like garter and seed stitches. I’m used to reading those long listing diagrams, so I was wondering if you have one I could look at thank you so much for all your help sorry if this has been asked before!
Hi Brianna,
Thanks so much for the kind words and for reaching out! At present we do not have a chart for this pattern, but I will be sure to pass your request along to the design team. Some knitters prefer charts, and others written instructions, but it can be helpful to learn how to follow both! If you run into any problems, we will be happy to help clarify the pattern for you!
Best,
Julianna
Thank you so much! I guess I’m a little confused on the part where you slip four stitches then begin to P1 tbl, K1 tbl by 4 times. I guess I’m confused on how to slip off the stitches and just in general that step, because When I slipped off the stitches I wasn’t sure how to get my working yarn around the cable stitch holders or if I was even using them right. Thanks so much!
Hi Brianna,
I see what you mean! I think you might find our Cable tutorial helpful – although you will be working twisted ribbing instead of stockinette, the technique for using the cable needle is still the same. You can find all of our tutorials by clicking here!
Best,
Julianna
Hi, so can someone make a video or put all the details in one place with step by step pictures. I can’t figure this one out and am dying to make it. I have even shown it to a few more experienced knitters and no one can make sense of this.
Thanks
Hi Tahnee,
Thanks for writing! Unfortunately we don’t have the resources at the moment to do a video or picture tutorial of this pattern. I will, however, certainly pass your request along to the design team!
Best,
Julianna
Hi, can I just check what size/number of stitches is shown in the examples above?
I started with 40 st but now find it a bit too narrow and would like to get 4 repeats of the cable pattern across (like in the photos). Would that be 48 (adding 1 more rcc repeat) or 56 st? I can’t seem to figure it out!!
Thank you 🙂
Hi Stacey,
Thanks for reaching out! Our sample is the largest size in the pattern, which starts with 72 stitches. This pattern can be knit with any multiple of 16 stitches, so you could certainly knit the next size up which starts with 56 stitches!
I hope that helps, and happy knitting!
Julianna
For the long tail tubular cast off for this revelry scarf Is it switched because the pattern starts with purl not knit? Please advise.
Hi Ann Marie,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes, that is correct! After you make the slipknot, the next stitch you cast on should be a knit stitch (in the tutorial, it’s a purl stitch). Next, cast on a purl stitch, then a knit, and continue, alternating knits and purls as explained in the tutorial, and ending with a knit stitch. This will ensure that your first row lines up with the knits and purls of the cast on!
Best,
Julianna
Hi,
I would really love to use the Season Alpaca yarn with a US 5 needle to make this pattern. Could you tell me how this pattern should be altered such as how many stitches per row and how many balls of yarn I would need? Thanks.
Hi Courtney,
Thanks for reaching out! This pattern should be lovely in Season Alpaca! To adjust the gauge of the pattern, you will need to knit a gauge swatch in 1×1 twisted rib using Season Alpaca on a US 5 needle. You can then multiply your stitches per inch by 6, 8, or 10 inches depending on which size of the scarf you plan to knit and round to the nearest multiple of 8 to determine how many stitches to cast on. It’s a little trickier to estimate how much yarn you will need when modifying the pattern for a different gauge, but I think 3 (4, 5) skeins would be a safe guess!
I hope that helps, and happy knitting!
Julianna
Hi all! While the twisted rib looks gorgeous, it’s much slower for me to work in — is it possible to knit this pattern with a regular rib (knitting/purling as normal through the front loop instead of of back loop), or will that lead to complications down the line? Thanks!
Hi Nina,
Thanks for writing in. You can absolutely use regular 1 x 1 ribbing for this pattern, instead of twisted rib!
All the best,
Lili
How do you do the tubular cast off for the twisted rib in this pattern since the first stitch is a purl?
Hi Maryanne,
That’s a great question! The trick is to pretend that the first purl stitch is one with your second stitch, the knit stitch. You can follow the instructions in our tutorial, but treat the first 2 stitches as just 1 knit stitch. Alternatively, you can work 1 decrease row and decrease away the purl stitch, leaving you with a knit stitch at the first edge instead.
All the best,
Lili
Do you have any suggestions as to how to work this pattern into knitting a throw?
Hi Julie,
Thank you for writing in To modify this pattern you will want to start with a gauge swatch. You will then measure your stitches per inch and multiply that number by the desired width of your blanket and that will give you your cast on number. One thing to keep in mind is that this blanket pattern is worked over a multiple of 8 stitches, so you will want to start with an even number that is also divisible by 8. I hope this helps but please let us know if you have any other questions!
Happy knitting,
Gavriella
Thanks very much!
Hi. I was looking at the gauge requirements as I am looking for a substitute yarn.
I found it interesting that it calls for 20 at/4” on size 9 needle. Based on the label for Alpaca Pure the gauge is listed at 4-4.5 st/in and size 7-8 needle.
I feel like maybe I am missing something. It’s a larger needle but still gets more stitches per inch?
Thanks for your help. And also what would you try as a substitute yarn?
Hi Natalie,
Great question! Needle size and gauge are largely up to the designer of a pattern. I’m guessing that the designer of this pattern chose to use a needle that’s on the larger end of things because twisted ribbing is a relatively tight stitch pattern. Using a larger needle helps maintain a nice drape in the finished knit fabric.
As for the gauge, that can vary significantly from knitter to knitter! It sounds like this designer may be a tight knitter, so their gauge is tighter than expected even on larger needles.
I would recommend Daily Wool as a substitute for this pattern!
All the best,
Lili