DIY Network

Swatch Scarf Swatch Scarf From "Knitty Gritty" episode DKNG-106

A detail of the Swatch Scarf.

Fans of a certain popular boy wizard know how stylish (and warm) a long knitted scarf can be. Scarves are fun and easy to knit, and this one is extra-special because you can practice new stitches while you're making it. And just think how surprised someone special would be if you presented her (or him) with a colorful scarf you made yourself! (You don't even need a magic wand for this project -- just a pair of knitting needles and some yarn. Abracadabra!)

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Figure A

What every knitter needs to know: Measuring gauge is very important before you start a knitting project. Use a regular ruler (or a special type of ruler, shown in figure A, that's available at knitting stores) to measure a swatch of knitting. Find how many stitches are in 2", then divide in half to get the number of stitches per inch (it's easier and more accurate that way than trying to measure how many stitches are in an inch). The number you come up with is your gauge. Gauge is determined by a combination of factors: yarn size, needle size, how tight or loose you make your stitches, etc.

Materials
A few different colors of worsted-weight or bulky yarn (e.g., Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted or Bulky)
Size 8 or 9 knitting needles (if you're using worsted-weight yarn)
Size 10 or 11 knitting needles (if you're using bulky yarn)
Yarn needle

1. Cast on 40 stitches.

2. Choose a stitch pattern (such as stockinette, garter or seed stitch or ribbing) and work at least 4".

	Figure B
	Figure C

3. When you're ready, choose another stitch pattern and/or color. (To change colors, tie the new color onto the tail of the first and slide it up close to the knitting, as shown in figure B. Then start knitting with it on the next row. You can weave the ends in later.)

4. Repeat until the scarf is the length you want it to be.

5. Bind off.

6. Fold the scarf in half (figure C) and stitch together the three open sides.

7. With the scarf right side out, stitch together the remaining open side.

Knit Bit: Nobody really knows when knitting was invented, but scraps of knitted fabric have been found in Egyptian tombs!

Here's a great idea for a new knitter: Make a swatch scrapbook for future gauge reference, or so you can look at it later and see how much your knitting has improved. Punch two holes in each page and knot the two tails of yarn to tie the swatches in place.

Tips for Teaching Children to Knit

Choose a worsted-weight yarn. Encourage your child to pick out the yarn, but be aware that novelty yarns can be difficult even for advanced knitters. Worsted-weight yarn is much easier to work with than other types.

Use US size 10 needles in wood or bamboo. The size is comfortable for smaller hands, and the natural texture of wood or bamboo will help keep the yarn on the needles.

Choose a small, simple project. A finished project is key to fostering a love of knitting, so pick something like a beanbag, a coaster or a washcloth (anything that can be made from a simple square of knitted fabric) for the first project.

RESOURCES :

Kids Knitting: Projects for Kids of All Ages
By Melanie Falick
Artisan, November 2003
Paperback
$12.95 (US)
ISBN: 1579652417
Artisan Books
A division of Workman Publishing
Website: artisanbooks.com

Lamb's Pride Bulky Wool
Suggested retail price: $6.50 (125-yd. skein)
Brown Sheep Company
Website: brownsheep.com

GUESTS :

Melanie Falick
Knitting expert, author
We apologize no contact information is available.