New Cedar Free Scarf Knitting Pattern for Worsted Weight Yarn
A free scarf knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn with textured tree motifs, perfect for thoughtful gift knitting or everyday wear.
The Cedar Scarf is a free scarf knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn designed for knitters who enjoy texture and quiet detail. Worked flat in two sections and joined with Kitchener stitch, this rectangular scarf features small tree motifs created entirely with knits and purls. It’s ideal for advanced beginners who want to stretch their skills while still enjoying a steady, rhythmic project. This pattern works well as a meaningful gift or a practical everyday scarf, and the classic texture makes it suitable for anyone. Knit it when you want something engaging but not overwhelming, whether you’re settling in for evening knitting or planning ahead for handmade gifts.
Why did I design the Cedar Scarf pattern?
The Cedar Scarf came from a desire to design a scarf that felt intentional without being flashy. I wanted something that used simple stitches in a way that created visual interest, but still felt calm and steady on the needles. This free scarf knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn is about enjoying the process as much as the finished piece. It’s the kind of project you can pick up after a long day, knit a few repeats, and feel like you’ve made real progress.
What is included in the pattern overview?
The Cedar Scarf is a rectangular scarf measuring approximately 6 inches wide and 72 inches long. It’s knit flat in two equal sections and finished by joining the pieces with Kitchener stitch for a seamless look.
- Finished item: Textured rectangular scarf
- Skill level: Advanced beginner
- Construction style: Knit flat in two pieces, joined at the center
This construction keeps the knitting manageable while giving the finished scarf a polished, continuous flow.
What materials do I need to knit this scarf?
For this free scarf knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn, I used Berroco Vintage (affiliate link). This yarn has great stitch definition, which really helps the tree motifs stand out without needing complicated techniques.
You’ll also need:
- Size 7 knitting needles
- Tapestry needle for Kitchener stitch
- Scissors
You’ll see Berroco Vintage (affiliate link) referenced throughout the pattern because it holds texture beautifully and wears well over time.
How does the Cedar Scarf fit and feel when worn?
This scarf is designed to be versatile. At 6 inches wide, it sits comfortably around the neck without feeling bulky. The 72-inch length gives plenty of room for wrapping, draping, or tying in different ways. It works equally well tucked into a coat or worn loosely over a sweater.
What size is the finished Cedar Scarf?
The finished measurements are approximately 6 inches wide by 72 inches long. Because it’s a scarf, sizing is flexible. If you’d like it longer or shorter, you can easily adjust the length by working more or fewer repeats before finishing each section.
Why did I choose worsted weight yarn for this pattern?
Worsted weight yarn makes this pattern approachable and practical. It knits up at a comfortable pace and highlights the knit-and-purl texture without feeling stiff. This free scarf knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn is a great example of how simple yarn choices can elevate a straightforward design.
What gauge should I aim for?
Gauge isn’t critical for a scarf, but it does affect the overall width and drape. Aim for a fabric that feels balanced, not too loose and not too dense. If your scarf is coming out wider or narrower than expected, adjusting needle size slightly can help. If you need a refresher on how to find gauge check out the How to Find Gauge tutorial.
Can I substitute a different yarn?
Yes, substitutions are very doable here. Any smooth worsted weight yarn with good stitch definition will work well. If you choose a softer or loftier yarn, the texture may appear more subtle. If you want the tree motifs to pop, stick with something similar in structure to Berroco Vintage (affiliate link).
What techniques does this pattern use?
This pattern is skill friendly for advanced beginners who are ready to learn or practice a couple of new techniques. You’ll use the vdd stitch to create the tree texture, along with basic knits and purls throughout. The two sections are joined using Kitchener stitch, which gives the scarf a seamless center.
If you’d like extra support, the knitting tutorial page walks through many foundational skills step by step.
When and how can this scarf be worn?
The Cedar Scarf is designed to be worn often. It works well for everyday errands, church, workdays, or weekend outings. The texture adds interest without feeling busy, making it a great choice for both men and women. It also makes a thoughtful handmade gift that feels personal but still practical.
Is this a good pattern for gift knitting?
Absolutely. This free scarf knitting pattern for worsted weight yarn is reliable, repeatable, and adaptable. Once you’ve knit it once, it’s easy to return to for future gifts. You can change colors, yarns, or length to suit the recipient while keeping the same structure.
How does this pattern connect to other Cedar designs?
If you enjoy this scarf, you may also like the Cedar Socks and the Cedar Headband. All three share the same tree stitch pattern, making them easy to mix and match as a set. You can also explore more options on the free scarf knitting pattern page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with knits and purls and open to learning vdd stitch and Kitchener stitch.
Kitchener stitch is recommended for the cleanest finish, but you can substitute another join if needed.
The textured pattern helps keep the edges stable, especially when knit at an appropriate gauge.
Yes, you can add pattern repeats to increase the width while maintaining the design.
The pattern is written with clear instructions for each section with a chart for the stitch pattern.
Cedar Scarf Free Pattern
Materials: Approximately 3 hanks Berroco Vintage Worsted 218yds/3.5oz, yarn needle, scissors
Needle Size: 7(US) 4.5mm straight needle
Gauge (tension): 24sts & 32 rows in garter stitch to make 10cm square, using size 7(US) 4.5mm needles in stockintte
Finished Measurement Laid Flat
7x72ins (15x150cms)
METHOD
This scarf is knit flat in 2 separate halves and grafted together in the center using the same stitch pattern as Cedar Socks and Headband. There are both charted and written instructions for the stitch pattern.
Cedar Stitch Pattern
Row 1 – knit across
Row 2 – purl across
Row 3 – [m1r, k4, vdd, k4, m1l]
Row 4 – [k5, p1, k5]
Row 5 – [p5, k1, p5]
Row 6 – purl across
Row 7 – [k1, m1r, k3, vdd, k3, m1l, k1]
Row 8 – [p1, k4, p1, k4, p1]
Row 9 – [k1, p4, k1, p4, k1]
Row 10 – purl across
Row 11 – [k2, m1r, k2, vdd, k2, m1l, k2]
Row 12 – [p2, k3, p1, k3, p2]
Row 13 – [k2, p3, k1, p3, k2]
Row 14 – purl across
Row 15 – [k3, m1r, k1, vdd, k1, m1l, k3]
Row 16 – [p3, k2, p1, k2, p3]
Row 17 – [k3, p2, k1, p2, k3]
Row 18 – purl across
Row 19 – [k4, m1r, vdd, m1l, k4]
Row 20 – [p4, k1, p1, k1, p4]
Row 21 – [k4, p1, k1, p1, k4]
Row 22 – purl across
Scarf Instructions
Half 1
Cast on 39sts
Work in garter (knit every row) for 1ins/2.5cms
Set up row 1 (right side) – k7, pm, starting on a row 1 of the charted stitch pattern work stitch chart 1 time, pm, k3, pm, starting on a row 1 of the charted stitch pattern work stitch chart 1, pm, k7
Set-up row 2 – k4, p3, sm, work charted stitch pattern, sm, p3, sm, work charted stitch marker, p3, k4
Continue as above repeating rows 1-40 of the stitch chart pattern until you have 36ins/90cms or half of desired length (just remember, if you knit for longer you will use more yarn!) ending after completing a row 19.
Do not bind off. Leave stitches on a spare needle or stitch holder.
Half 2
Cast on 39sts
Work in garter (knit every row) for 1ins/2.5cms
Set up row 1 (right side) – k7, pm, starting on a row 1 of the charted stitch pattern work stitch chart 1 time, pm, k3, pm, starting on a row 1 of the charted stitch pattern work stitch chart 1, pm, k7
Set-up row 2 – k4, p3, sm, work charted stitch pattern, sm, p3, sm, work charted stitch marker, p3, k4
Continue as above repeating rows 1-40 of the stitch chart pattern until you have 36ins/90cms or the same as the first half ending after completing a row 39.
Do not bind off. Leave stitches on a spare needle or stitch holder.
Finishing
With wrong sides facing, kitchener stitch the 2 halves of the scarf together.
Weave in all ends and block as desired.
ABBREVIATIONS
K – knit
m1l – With left needle pick up strand between 2 stitches front to back. Knit through back loop
m1r – With left needle pick up strand between 2 stitches back to front. Knit through front loop
p – purl
st(s) – stitch(es)
vdd – vertical double decrease – slip the next 2 stitches on the left needle as if to knit them together and then slip them off the left needle and onto the right needle, knit the next st, pass slipped stitches over the knitted stitch together
Cedar Scarf PDF Download
What should I do after finishing the Cedar Scarf?
I’d love to hear how your scarf turned out. If you knit this pattern or have questions while working through it, leave a comment and let me know how it’s going.
Affiliate disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The post New Cedar Free Scarf Knitting Pattern for Worsted Weight Yarn appeared first on The Knit in the Womb Blog.
Comments
Post a Comment