The Knitters Thread

janb5

Thanks for the tip iQueen re the scarf- how many stitches do you cast on for your scarves please?

iQueen

janb5 wrote: »

Thanks for the tip iQueen re the scarf- how many stitches do you cast on for your scarves please?

My pattern is more of a 'recipe' that can be adapted for any weight of yarn - Aran, Worsted, DK, 4ply.

Gauge/tension is not important, you are aiming for approximately 8in wide, for a basic scarf, and loose enough for it to feel soft and comfortable.

I used Aran weight (80% Acrylic, 20% wool), and 5mm needles.

Loosely, CO 40 sts = 2 x 3 garter edge sts, + an odd number of 2sts (17 x 2 = 34sts) - this makes both edges match. For a wider or narrower scarf add/remove a multiple of 4 sts to/from the rib section.

The 2 row pattern is:

Row 1: K3, (P2, K2) to last 5 sts, P2, K3.
Row 2: K5, (P2, K2) to last 3 sts, K3

Keep knitting until work measures around 60in/150cm (adult size) or whatever length you decide. Bind off loosely.

I think I used about 250g.

This recipe works for any weight of yarn: just start with double the number of sts on the ball band for 4in/10cm and use the above formula, +/- any sts to fit width and st pattern.

Use the size of needles that give a soft wearable fabric.

The recipe also works for K1,P1 rib - the ribbing sts need to be an odd number, for matching edges. So, for Aran weight, 6 edge sts + 35-41 (I'm guessing!) rib sts.

The garter sts help to keep the scarf flat, rather than rolling inwards.

*Just noticed that you are a Serious Money Saver, so I'll add this stash-busting tip!

A nice tweed or ombre effect scarf can be made, by combining 2 or more yarns (2 x DK = Aran weight) knitted together.

nursemaggie

I am knitting a different scarf now it is so much better, obviously using less yarn, both sides are identical and I did find one stitch wrong the night before last but I can't find it now so it is very forgiving.

I have 62 stitches, it is for a man and in DK.

row one k2 p2
row 2 k2 p2
row 3 knit all stiches
row4 knit all stiches

It is growing very fast and not taking a lot of yarn.

I may double it for my brother as he goes out walking and will appreciate a really warm scarf.

I am finding I need to have a row counter on one needle to remember which row I am on. I think it is just a bit too simple for an experienced knitter.

iQueen

nursemaggie wrote: »

I may double it for my brother as he goes out walking and will appreciate a really warm scarf. Great idea!

I think it is just a bit too simple for an experienced knitter.

Even experienced knitters like a bit of 'mindless' knitting from time to time!

nursemaggie

Not what I meant iQueen I mean it is so simple I keep making mistakes and doing the wrong row. In other words I think I do not need to pay attention. Obviously I do.

pigpen

Does anyone use the knitpro interchangables??

I started using them a few weeks ago and they are constantly coming apart after just a few rows.. is this usual because it sure is annoying!?

cuddles123

pigpen wrote: »

Does anyone use the knitpro interchangables??

I started using them a few weeks ago and they are constantly coming apart after just a few rows.. is this usual because it sure is annoying!?

I use them and love them. Are you using the metal key to tighten the ends and holding with the rubber grip?

pigpen

cuddles123 wrote: »

I use them and love them. Are you using the metal key to tighten the ends and holding with the rubber grip?

I don't have a key or rubber anything? I have hundreds of the end cap things though

MoonJelly

pigpen wrote: »

Does anyone use the knitpro interchangables??

I started using them a few weeks ago and they are constantly coming apart after just a few rows.. is this usual because it sure is annoying!?

I have a few pairs both in metal and wood. The are good needles but I find the joining between the needle and the cable not smooth enough. Yarn keeps catching. I bought a pair (only one) of the Addi needles and they are smoother. However I bought the set of KnitPro back when I was living in the UAE and I can't justify the cost of getting a whole new.

Yes, I've used the key the grip and everything and all needle tips but a couple of keep "untwisting". I don't know why.

cuddles123

Usually when you buy either cables or an interchangeable set, you get a key and a rubber grip.
If you haven't got them, use a large safety pin which should fit in the tightening hole and a large rubber band to grip with. Or do you have some of that non slip stuff on a roll? (Can get it from Poundshop)

Shout if you get stuck and I'll send you a key as I have loads.