Cast On
Many knitters find that the cable cast on works particularly well for scarves. It is very firm and it looks just like the cast off. This video shows how to do it: www.ehow.com/video_4429587_cable-cast-knitting-stitches.html
Needle Size and Gauge
We use Sizes 15 and 17 needles to create comfort scarves (soft, cozy, flexible and fast-knitting) that are 4 inches but no more than 4.5 inches wide and 60 inches long. Typically, we cast on 10 stitches on size 17 needles and 12 stitches on size 15 needles; however, the amount of stitches depends on the bulkiness of the yarn. Please adjust your number of stitches as needed to achieve our goal width of 4 to 4.5 inches wide.
- Adjusting the number of stitches between the novelty yarn and the body of the scarf. If the yarn used in the novelty yarn area seems thicker or thinner than the yarns used in the body of the scarf, you may have to adjust the number of stitches in one section to keep the side edges of the scarf even throughout. For instance, if the novelty yarn seems thicker, use fewer stitches in the novelty yarn area or more stitches in the body. In like manner, if the novelty yarn seems thinner, use more stitches in the novelty yarn area and fewer in the body.
- Adjusting needle size. Again, if the yarn seems thick, use a bigger needle (size 17). If it seems thin, use a smaller needle (size 15). For summer scarves, we want a more open, lighter weight scarf so it’s better to use a bigger needle even if the yarn is “thin.”
- If you are a tight knitter, use bigger needles (size 17) or if you are a loose knitter, use smaller needles (size 15). Use whatever size needle it takes so that you make a scarf that is 4 inches to 4.5 inches wide (not wider). You can also adjust the number of stitches to keep your scarf within this size range.
Yarn and Pattern Selection
Combine different textured yarns to make your scarf more interesting. Bulky weight may be achieved with one yarn or by combining two yarns together. Different stitches use more or less yarn. Use the patterns on the website as your guide.
Magic Ball Kits
Our “Magic Ball Kits” are created to support the following patterns: Garter, Wrap & Drop, Lacy Garter (aka fa*ggot), and Diagonal.
- Note: If you are using one of our Magic Balls and your scarf comes out too short, you may have made it too wide. We have tested the yardage in our kits so the scarf will come out 4 inches to 4.5 inches wide and at least 60 inches long by following the directions provided. If you change needle size, number of stitches, etc. the size of your scarf will change accordingly.
Scarf Finishing
Please weave in any loose ends, sign your first name on the Handmade tag and use a piece of scrap yarn to attach it to your scarf. For those knitting or crocheting from the Magic Ball Kit, please return any leftover yarn with your completed scarf.
Questions
Call or email Leslye 310-547-3673.
Suggestions
Let us know if you have suggestions to improve our patterns or a favorite pattern you’d like us to use.
