Self-Closing Scarf

This is a modification of a very old pattern Pattons published in the 1940s or 1950s.  In the original version, all increases on the first point was done in the first stitch, and the body of the scarf was knit entirely in
garter stitch.  It still can be done that way, and in fact, that is probably best for bulky yarns.  For more delicate yarns, this pattern is a bit more delicate and pretty, I think.  Since the scarf fastens securely around the neck with no dragging ends, I find it ideal for older folks and children who need warmth around the neck of the coat, but can't/shouldn't fuss with lots of scarf wrapping.

Materials:
1 skein of yarn--probably at least 50 grams
Needles of the size recommended on the yarn band--go down a size if you knit loosely, up a size if you tend to be too tight.  Gauge should be approximately what the band recommends, but it's not exact, so don't worry.
1 stitch holder.

Cast on 3 stitches.
Row 1:  K, yo, K, yo, K
Row 2:  Purl back
Row 3: K2, yo, K, yo, K2
Row 4:  Purl back

Continue in this manner--increasing one stitch on the side before the first yarn over, and after the last yarn over, until the scarf is the approximate width you want.  (the preference of you or the recipient is all that counts here, but about 36 is right for sport weight yarn.)
On the last Odd numbered Row:  Increase 1 in the first stitch, knit to yarn over, yo, k1, yo, knit rest of stitches.  This step is VERY important because you need an EVEN number of stitches for the rest of the pattern to work.

Knit 6-8 rows in stocking knit stitch (k row; p back) until the point "looks right."
On the next row divide stitches as follows:  K1, place next stitch on holder; continue in this manner across row.  You should end up with 1/2 of the stitches on the needle, and the other 1/2 on the holder--every other stitch will be on the needle.

Take the 1st 1/2 of the stitches and knit a k1, p1 rib for at least 1".  Your purpose is to make a slot that the lacy point will fit through, so look at how wide the point is, and use that to judge how long the "loop" will need to be.  Obviously, it will vary by how wide you chose to make the scarf. When the loop is as long as needed, break off the thread with a short tail.

Place the ribbing on the needle holder, after placing the stitches you haven't knit on the free needle.  (I hope that is clear!)  Knit the second 1/2 of the stitches in k1, p1 rib until it is the same length as the first ribbing "loop."

This next step takes a bit of dexterity for me, but its not complex.  When the ribbed sections are the same length, you need to join them back together.  K1 from the needle, k1 from the holder, k1 from needle, k1 from holder...repeat until all stitches are back on 1 needle.  Sometimes I find it easier to put the stitches on the holder onto a 3rd needle of the same size, but that is optional.

When the stitches are together again you will want to knit the body of the scarf.  I like a basic basket stitch; it looks nice with the lacy points but doesn't roll.  Take the number of stitches and divide evenly for pattern.
For example, if you have 36 stitches, k6, p6 across 1st row of the body of the scarf.  Then p 6, k6 back.  After the first 6 rows are done, change to p6, k6.  Then k6, p6 back.  Continue in this manner for the length you want (about 12" or so of basketweave).

Now make the second "loop" exactly the same way you made the first loop.
Divide the stitches in half, make ribbing of the same length as the first
side, break off thread.  Make second loop, and join all the stitches together. Make
second point:Knit in stockingknit for 6-8 rows (until this point matches
the first).  Then decrease in the following manner: Count your stitches and
find the middle of the row:
Row 1: slip 1, k1, psso, k to the middle stitch, yo, k1, yo, k rest of row.
Row 2: purl back
Row 3: slip 1, k1, psso, k to the middle stitch, yo, k1, yo, k rest of row.
Row 4:  purl back.
Continue in this manner, decreasing 1 stitch each row, and keeping the
lace pattern (I think it looks like a leaf).
Eventually you should be down to 3 stitches.  Bind off in knit.  Use a yarn
needle to darn in the yarn tails.  Wear or give in good health.

This is my first try at writing a pattern.  I hope it is clear.  If not,
please email me personally, and I'll try and explain myself.  Enjoy!
Lynne Adrian
ladrian@ua1vm.ua.edu



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