Classic Elite Yarns Colina Scarf Knitting Pattern

Colina Lace Scarf by Classic Elite Yarns

What Is Being Made

Colina is a delicate lace scarf designed by Alison Stewart-Guinee and originally published in Highland Summer 1604. This elegant wrap is inspired by the natural beauty of falling autumn leaves and new spring foliage, featuring intricate leaf motifs throughout its construction. The finished scarf measures approximately 11 inches wide and 67 inches long after blocking and relaxation, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or draping.

Construction Method

This scarf is knit in two identical halves, each worked separately from the outer edge toward the center. The two halves are then grafted together at the middle using the Kitchener stitch, creating a seamless center join. This construction technique allows for balanced, symmetrical patterning and ensures that the lace motifs align perfectly when the pieces are united.

Techniques Used

• Lace knitting: The scarf features multiple lace charts that create openwork patterns throughout the design
• Worked flat: Both halves are constructed on straight needles in flat rows rather than in the round
• Seamed construction: The two halves are joined using the Kitchener stitch, a grafting technique that creates an invisible seam
• Blocking: Each half is blocked to precise dimensions (12 inches wide by 36 inches long) to set the lace patterns and allow the piece to relax to its final measurements

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The scarf employs a series of charted stitch patterns that work together to build the complete design. The construction progresses through four distinct chart sections:

• Border chart: Worked once across Rows 1–42, establishing the decorative edge
• Large Leaf chart: Repeated 5 times across Rows 1–12 for each repeat, totaling 60 rows and introducing the larger leaf motifs
• Small Leaf chart: Repeated 20 times across Rows 1–8 for each repeat, totaling 160 rows and creating finer leaf details
• Center chart: Worked once across Rows 1–26 to complete the patterned section

Following the charted sections, the pattern includes edge stitches worked in garter stitch (knit on both sides) to frame the lace and provide stability. The slipped stitch selvage technique is used to create neat edges suitable for grafting.

Yarn and Materials

Colina is worked in MountainTop Vail by Classic Elite Yarns, a luxurious blend of 70% baby alpaca and 30% bamboo viscose. This yarn combination provides softness, drape, and a subtle sheen ideal for lace work. The project requires 3 hanks of yarn in colorway 6403 Steel, with each hank containing approximately 236 yards.

Knitting needles in US size 2 (2.75 mm) are used to achieve the proper gauge and create the delicate lace fabric. Additional materials include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and waste yarn for temporarily holding stitches during construction.

Gauge and Skill Level

This is an intermediate-level project suitable for knitters with experience in lace knitting and chart reading. The gauge is 25 stitches and 36 rows over 4 inches in pattern from the Small Leaf chart, measured after blocking and relaxation. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished scarf achieves the correct dimensions and drape.