Scarf Knitting Patterns

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Close up on woman's hands knitting — LukaTDB / Getty

A knit scarf is a cozy and stylish way to keep warm during the cold months. One of the best items to create for those just learning how to knit, a scarf makes for a great project you can enjoy long after its completion. And if you're already familiar with the art of knitting, then make several scarves to give as gifts come the holiday season. We're sharing a number of scarf knitting patterns you can make at home that will give you warmth and comfort all winter long.

No matter what your skill level—a new knitter hoping to master their first scarf or a seasoned pro looking for a new challenge—you'll find a scarf knitting pattern that suits your needs in the slides ahead. Keeping it simple is best as a beginner, which is why our Basic Scarf is the perfect choice for those just starting out. It uses a common stitch pattern—called the stockinette stitch—which features alternate knit rows and purl rows to piece the final product together. Another benefit of this knitting style is that you can make something for the whole family—like a child's cowl. The textured rectangle knitting pattern is simple to follow and will make for a cherished addition to any little one's winter wardrobe.

Use these knitting patterns for a foolproof guide to gift giving. Knitting a scarf makes for the best type of present: something handmade and from the heart. It'll keep your loved ones comfortable when cold weather hits or simply give them something to accent their outfit. Here, we share our scarf knitting pattern ideas that will get any level knitter excited to break out their knitting needles.

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Knit Cabled Cowl

Get the Knit Cabled Cowl How-To

A chunky cable at the front of this cowl just increases the snuggle factor.

02 of 08

Child's Knit Cowl

This cowl is perfect for the kids. To begin, cast on 100 stitches (20 inches). Next, knit every row (garter stitch) for 70 rows (7 1/2 inches). Continue by casting off and weaving in ends, and finish by sewing the ends together.

Shop Now: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick and Quick Bonus Bundle One Skein Yarn, $14.62, amazon.com; Takumi Bamboo Double Pointed Knitting Needles, size seven, $10, michaels.com.

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Knitted Scarves

Get the Knitted Scarves How-To

Knitted scarves are the perfect handmade gift: They're easy to make, one size fits all, and small imperfections give them charm. Plus, you can choose needle and yarn sizes to match the amount of time you can invest.

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Purse-Stitch Scarf

Get the Purse-Stitch Scarf How-To

Large needles make for speedy knitting—and a pretty, loosely textured scarf. Ours is made from merino wool, known for being soft and lofty.

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Basic Scarf

Get the Basic Scarf How-To

For this classic design, the main body is worked in stockinette stitch, the most common of all stitch patterns, which is formed by alternating knit rows and purl rows.

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Chunky Cream and Aqua Scarf

Get the Chunky Cream and Aqua Scarf How-To

Knitting this chic scarf is easier (and faster) than it looks. We paired a bulky cream-colored wool with a fine light-blue mohair and used a U.S. size 20 needle, so we only cast on 14 stitches.

07 of 08

Knitted Neck Scarf

Get the Knit Neck Scarf How-To

Knit a smart accessory to keep you both warm and stylish this winter.

08 of 08

Dobbs Ferry Knit Cowl

Create this ultra-thick, cozy cowl for chilly days. To create this accessory, knit the first two stitches and purl the next two stitches with size 19 knitting needles. Continue by knitting two stitches and purling again until you reach your desired length.

Shop Now: Lion Brand Yarn Circular Knitting Needles, $17.28, amazon.com; Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick Yarn, $8, michaels.com; Clover Locking Stitch Marker, $7.86, walmart.com.