Maisie Scarf Knitting Pattern

Maisie Scarf in Rowan Merino Aria

What is Being Made

The Maisie Scarf is a beginner-friendly knitted accessory designed by Martin Storey for Rowan. This rectangular scarf measures 50 cm (19¾ inches) wide and 208 cm (82 inches) long, making it a generous length suitable for various styling options. The finished scarf provides a classic, wearable accessory that combines textural interest with elegant simplicity.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The scarf is constructed using straightforward knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. The pattern begins with a moss stitch border, which creates a neat, textured edge that frames the main design. Moss stitch, also called seed stitch, is formed by alternating knit and purl stitches in a checkerboard pattern, providing stability and a professional finish.

The body of the scarf features a sophisticated repeating 24-row pattern that combines ribbed sections with textured stitch patterns. The design maintains a 5-stitch ribbed border on both sides of the scarf throughout, which helps the edges lie flat and provides structural integrity. The central panel showcases an intricate arrangement of knit and purl stitches that create subtle raised motifs, including spot-like textures that add visual interest without requiring complex techniques.

The pattern is repeated 17 complete times across the length of the scarf, followed by a partial repeat, creating consistent visual rhythm. The scarf concludes with an 8-row moss stitch border that mirrors the beginning, providing a balanced, finished appearance.

Stitches Used

• Moss Stitch (Seed Stitch): Alternating knit and purl stitches creating a textured, bumpy fabric used for borders
• Ribbing: Vertical columns of knit and purl stitches that provide elasticity and structure to the side edges
• Stockinette Stitch variations: Knit and purl combinations in the central pattern area creating raised texture and spot motifs
• Cast on and cast off: Standard techniques for beginning and finishing the scarf

Materials and Tools

This project requires 10 balls of Rowan Merino Aria yarn, each weighing 50 grams, for a total of 500 grams. The pattern was photographed in the Natural 41 colorway, though Merino Aria is available in multiple colors for customization.

Knitting is worked on 7mm (US 10½) needles in a single pair configuration. The yarn and needle size combination produces a tension of 14 stitches and 21 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) when measured over the pattern stitch. Achieving correct tension is important for the scarf to reach the intended finished dimensions.

The scarf begins with 70 stitches cast on, which creates the 50 cm width. Rowan Merino Aria is a premium merino wool yarn, offering softness, breathability, and durability suitable for a frequently-worn accessory.

Finishing and Care

After completion, the scarf should be pressed according to the information page instructions included with the pattern. Standard finishing techniques are applied to ensure a polished, professional appearance. The combination of moss stitch borders and textured central pattern creates a scarf that is both visually interesting and practical for everyday wear.