How to Knit an Entrelac Scarf for Beginners

Entrelac knitting creates a stunning woven fabric that looks incredibly complex, like a basket of interlocking diamonds. But here’s the secret: it’s just a rhythmic series of simple triangles and rectangles. We’re here to show you exactly how to master this technique. In this two-part video series, we’ll guide you as you knit an entrelac scarf from start to finish. Join instructor Jenny Fish from One Big Happy Yarn Co. for a complete knit-along. If you can knit, purl, and pick up stitches, you have all the skills you need for this beautiful project.

This guide follows along with the video series below. We recommend watching each episode alongside this written tutorial so you can pause, rewind, and read the steps at your own pace.

🎬 Watch Our Entrelac Scarf Knit-Along

🧶 Gather Your Supplies

• Yarn: Approximately 300–400 yards of worsted weight yarn. Self-striping or hand-dyed yarns create gorgeous automatic color shifts in entrelac.
• Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) straight or circular needles
• Stitch markers: Place one every 7 stitches to keep track of your rectangles
• Row counter: Highly recommended — entrelac involves repeating short rows, and a counter helps you stay on track
• Tapestry needle: For weaving in ends

📐 What is Entrelac Knitting?

Entrelac (from the French entrelacer, "to intertwine") creates a fabric that looks like woven strips of knitting, but it's actually worked in one continuous piece. The "magic number" in this pattern is 7 — every triangle and rectangle is 7 stitches wide.

As Jenny explains in the video, entrelac is built in tiers:

1. Bottom triangles — Foundation row worked in short rows
2. Right-side rectangles — Rectangles that lean one direction
3. Left-side rectangles — Rectangles that lean the other direction
4. Top triangles — Mirror of the bottom triangles to finish the edge

Gauge isn't critical for a scarf, but Jenny recommends aiming for about 24 stitches in 4 inches in stockinette for a nice drape.

The Look and Feel of Entrelac

At first glance, entrelac knitting looks incredibly complex, almost like a woven basket of interlocking diamonds. But we’ll let you in on a little secret: it’s much easier than it appears. The beautiful, textured fabric isn't made from weaving separate strips together at all. It's actually knit as one continuous piece, built block by block. If you know how to knit, purl, and pick up stitches, you have all the skills you need to master this stunning technique. The magic comes from working in tiers of short-row triangles and rectangles that lean in opposite directions, creating that signature intertwined effect that makes any project a showstopper.

Variations on the Technique

While our scarf tutorial focuses on a classic stockinette version, entrelac is a versatile technique with several fun variations. You can adapt it to be worked in garter stitch, knit in the round for seamless projects, or even apply the same woven principles to crochet. Understanding these options opens up a whole new world of project possibilities, from cozy hats to intricate blankets. Once you get the hang of the basic construction, you can start experimenting to see which style you like best for different types of knitting yarn and projects.

Garter Stitch Entrelac

While stockinette stitch is the most common choice for entrelac, creating smooth, slanted blocks, you can also work the entire fabric in garter stitch. This variation produces a squishier, thicker, and reversible fabric, as garter stitch looks the same on both sides. It’s a fantastic option for projects where you want extra warmth and texture, like a cozy blanket or a thick, plush scarf. The construction process remains the same—building with triangles and rectangles—but by knitting every row, you achieve a completely different feel and a more rustic, bumpy texture that can be just as beautiful.

Entrelac in the Round

You can absolutely work entrelac in a circle, which is perfect for making seamless items like hats, cowls, and sleeves. When you knit in the round, a "tier" of entrelac is still made of many smaller squares built one after another. The clever trick is that after completing a tier of squares, you turn your work to knit the next tier in the opposite direction. This turning process is what creates the classic back-and-forth, woven appearance, even though you are technically working in a continuous spiral. It’s a brilliant method for creating seamless garments with that signature entrelac look.

Entrelac in Crochet

The basketweave look isn't just for knitters! The core principles of entrelac can also be applied to crochet, especially Tunisian crochet. Because Tunisian crochet involves holding multiple loops on a long hook at once—similar to knitting—it lends itself perfectly to creating the block-by-block structure of entrelac. This technique allows crocheters to build a similar fabric of interconnected squares that appear woven. If you're a multi-craftual maker or a crocheter looking for a new challenge, exploring Tunisian crochet patterns with an entrelac design is a great way to expand your skills.

Step 1: Let's Cast On

Cast on 28 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method (or whichever method you prefer). Since the magic number is 7, you're casting on 4 groups of 7 stitches — this means your scarf will be 4 diamonds wide.

Step 2: Create the Base Triangles

The bottom triangles are the foundation of your entrelac fabric. They're worked using short rows — you knit a few stitches, turn, purl back, turn, knit one more stitch than before, and repeat until you've built a triangle 7 stitches wide.

Here's the sequence for each bottom triangle:

1. Row 1 (RS): Knit 1, turn.
2. Row 2 (WS): Purl 1, turn.
3. Row 3: Slip 1, knit 1, turn.
4. Row 4: Purl 2, turn.
5. Row 5: Slip 1, knit 2, turn.
6. Row 6: Purl 3, turn.
7. Continue this pattern, adding one more stitch on each right-side row, until you've worked all 7 stitches.

Repeat this process across all 28 stitches to create 4 bottom triangles. Each triangle uses 7 of your cast-on stitches.

Step 3: Knit the Right-Side Rectangles

Now comes the part that makes entrelac look like magic. You'll build rectangles that connect to the triangles you just made.

For the first rectangle in the tier, you start with a KFB (knit front and back) increase:

1. Row 1: Knit 1, turn.
2. Work short rows, increasing by one stitch each RS row (using KFB).
3. On WS rows, purl to the last stitch, then P2tog (purl two together) — this joins the new rectangle to the triangle below.
4. Continue until the rectangle is 7 stitches wide.

The P2tog on the wrong-side rows is the key — it's what physically connects each new rectangle to the piece below, creating that interlocking diamond effect.

Step 4: Add the Left-Side Rectangles

Left-side rectangles are worked similarly but in the opposite direction. You'll pick up stitches along the edge of a previous rectangle, then knit short rows that connect to the adjacent block.

Jenny demonstrates how to scoop your needle under the edge stitches: "To pick those up, we're going to scoop our needle under, wrap the yarn around, and pull it through."

On the right-side rows, the last two stitches are joined with a K2tog (knit two together), connecting the rectangle to the block below. Continue alternating between right-side and left-side tiers until your scarf reaches your desired length.

Step 5: Finish with the Top Triangles

When your scarf is long enough, finish with top triangles — they're the mirror image of the bottom triangles. You'll work short rows again, but this time decreasing by one stitch each row instead of increasing. This creates a smooth, straight top edge.

For each top triangle:

1. Pick up 7 stitches along the edge of the rectangle below.
2. Knit 7, turn.
3. Purl across, P2tog at the end to join to the adjacent block.
4. Each subsequent row, work one fewer stitch (slip 1, knit to last 2 stitches, K2tog, turn).
5. Continue until only 1 stitch remains.

Step 6: Blocking Your Finished Scarf

Blocking is the final step that transforms your entrelac from "bumpy and curling" to "flat and gorgeous." Soak your finished scarf in lukewarm water for 15–20 minutes, gently squeeze out excess water (don't wring!), and pin it flat to your desired dimensions. Let it dry completely.

As Jenny shows in Episode 2, blocking really opens up the diamond pattern and evens out your stitches.

How Washing Can Transform Your Yarn

You might notice that before blocking, your entrelac fabric feels a bit stiff and the diamonds look puckered. This is completely normal! The real transformation happens in the wash. When you give your scarf a gentle bath, the fibers relax and "bloom." This means they fluff up and soften, filling in the small gaps between stitches. After washing and blocking, the yarn creates a cohesive fabric that is significantly softer and warmer than it was on the needles. This step is what takes your project from a collection of knitted blocks to a beautifully integrated, drapey scarf where the woven pattern can truly shine. We carry a variety of blocking tools to help you get that perfect, professional finish.

Alternative Finishing: Adding an I-Cord Border

If you prefer a more polished and sturdy edge for your scarf, consider adding an I-cord border after you've completed the top triangles. Instead of binding off, you can work a 3-stitch I-cord, attaching it to the live stitches as you go. You can also pick up stitches along the entire perimeter of the scarf to encase the whole piece in a neat, rounded tube of knitting. This technique creates a beautiful, clean finish that looks very professional and helps ensure the edges of your scarf won't curl over time. It’s a fantastic skill to add to your knitting toolkit and can be applied to many other projects. You can find inspiration for this and other finishing techniques in our library of knitting patterns.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Entrelac

• Use stitch markers between every 7 stitches. This keeps your rectangle boundaries crystal clear, especially when you're picking up stitches.
• A row counter is your best friend. Entrelac involves repeating short-row sequences many times — losing count means frogging.
• Try self-striping yarn. The color changes happen automatically within each rectangle, creating stunning effects without managing multiple balls.
• Don't stress about gauge. For a scarf, gauge isn't critical — aim for about 24 stitches in 4 inches, but a little variation just changes the scarf size slightly.
• Backwards knitting is optional. Jenny introduces backwards knitting as a technique to avoid constantly turning your work, but you can always turn instead if you prefer.

Start with a Practice Swatch

If you're new to entrelac, we highly recommend starting with a small practice swatch before diving into a full scarf. Think of it as a dress rehearsal for your yarn and needles. A simple washcloth is a perfect first project. This gives you a low-stakes opportunity to get a feel for the rhythm of the technique: creating the base triangles, picking up stitches along the selvedge edge, and working the short rows for the rectangles. You’ll build muscle memory and confidence, so when you cast on for your beautiful scarf, the process will feel much more intuitive and enjoyable. It’s a great way to ensure your main project is a success from the very first stitch.

Choosing Your Entrelac Pattern

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, it’s time to pick your project. While the knit-along in this guide is a fantastic starting point, you’ll find many entrelac patterns out there. A great beginner-friendly pattern, like the popular "Entrelac Scarf" by Allison LoCicero, will have extremely clear, step-by-step instructions that don't leave you guessing. When you’re ready to explore more, you can browse the extensive pattern library on Yarn.com. You can filter by technique and difficulty to find projects that match your skill level, from simple cowls to more complex blankets, ensuring you find the perfect next challenge.

Understanding Pattern Difficulty Levels

Pay close attention to the difficulty rating on a pattern. Entrelac is often labeled as "Intermediate" or even "Expert" because it combines several skills at once. You need to be comfortable with knitting, purling, increasing, decreasing, and picking up stitches. For example, some patterns are rated for very experienced knitters and might assume you already know how to execute certain techniques without detailed explanation. Choosing a pattern that matches your current skill set is the key to avoiding frustration. Don't be afraid to start with something labeled "Easy" or "Intermediate" to build your confidence before tackling a more ambitious project.

A Note on Gauge for Scarves

As Jenny mentions in the video, gauge isn't absolutely critical for a scarf, which is a relief! Unlike a sweater, a scarf doesn't need to fit perfectly. However, that doesn't mean you should ignore your swatch entirely. Your gauge directly affects the fabric's drape and the final size of your scarf. The recommended gauge of about 24 stitches over 4 inches creates a fabric that is fluid and not too stiff. If your gauge is much tighter, you might end up with a narrower, denser scarf. If it's looser, it will be wider and more airy. Swatching helps you see if you like the fabric you're creating with your chosen knitting yarn and needles.

Checking for Pattern Corrections

Here’s a pro tip that can save you a lot of headaches: always check for pattern errata before you begin. Even in professionally written and tech-edited patterns, small mistakes can slip through. Designers and publishers often post corrections on the pattern page (on sites like Ravelry) or on their own website. Taking a minute to search for the pattern name plus the word "errata" or "corrections" can confirm you have the most up-to-date version of the instructions. This ensures you’re working from an accurate guide and won’t have to rip back your work due to a typo in the original document.

Working with Different Edge Styles

As you explore entrelac, you'll notice that different patterns create different edge finishes. Some, like the Allison LoCicero scarf pattern, give you a choice. You can have a smooth, flat edge or an edge with small, decorative "bumps." This variation comes from how the first and last stitches of the rows are worked. Using a garter stitch edge (knitting every stitch) creates those little bumps and helps the sides lie flat. A stockinette edge will be smoother but may have a tendency to curl slightly before blocking. Neither is right or wrong; it’s purely a matter of aesthetic preference and what you find looks best for your project.

Managing the "Wrong" Side of Your Work

Don't be alarmed if the back of your stockinette entrelac looks a bit... rustic. The "wrong" side of the fabric will naturally appear less tidy than the front. This is because of the way the stitches are picked up along the edges of the blocks, which creates visible horizontal bars. This is a characteristic feature of the technique, not a sign that you've made a mistake! If you want a fully reversible fabric where both sides look identical, consider trying a garter stitch entrelac pattern. Because garter stitch is reversible, the front and back of your work will be indistinguishable, which is a fantastic option for scarves and blankets.

Continue Your Entrelac Journey

Once you've cast off that final stitch and blocked your beautiful scarf, you might find yourself completely hooked on the magic of entrelac. This technique opens up a whole new world of texture and color play, and the scarf is just the beginning. If you're excited to see what else you can create, we’ve gathered a few of our favorite resources to help you take the next step. Whether you prefer learning from a book or watching a video, these tools will help you build on the skills you just learned and tackle even more ambitious projects with confidence.

Helpful Books and Classes

For knitters who love having a physical reference on their bookshelf, we can't recommend Entrelac by Rosemary Drysdale enough. It’s widely considered the definitive guide for this technique, filled with clear instructions, inspiring photographs, and a wonderful variety of patterns that go far beyond scarves. You can explore everything from hats and shawls to full-sized garments. Having this book is like having an entrelac expert at your side, ready to help you master new variations and build your confidence for any project you can dream up.

Video Tutorials for Visual Learners

If you’re a visual learner, nothing beats being able to see the stitches being worked in real-time. You can always revisit the One Big Happy Yarn Co. knit-along videos from this tutorial whenever you need a quick refresher on a specific step, like picking up stitches or forming the top triangles. Jenny Fish does an incredible job of making each part of the process feel manageable. Pausing and replaying the videos as you work is a fantastic way to solidify your understanding and ensure your stitches are just right before moving on to the next section.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

• Entrelac is simpler than it looks: The beautiful woven effect isn't made from separate strips. It's knit in one continuous piece using a rhythm of short-row triangles and rectangles, making it an achievable technique if you can knit, purl, and pick up stitches.
• Preparation is your key to success: Before starting, gather your essential tools. Using stitch markers every 7 stitches and keeping track with a row counter will help you manage the short rows and block construction without getting lost.
• Yarn choice and blocking create the final magic: Self-striping or hand-dyed worsted weight yarns are perfect for creating automatic color shifts within the entrelac diamonds. Remember to block your finished scarf, as this final step relaxes the fibers and transforms the fabric into a flat, drapey piece with beautiful definition.

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