Mckinley Scarf Knitting Pattern

McKinley Scarf by Spud & Chloë

What Is Being Made

The McKinley Scarf is a machine-washable knit scarf designed by Nancy Ekvall as part of the Spud & Chloë On the Run Series. This advanced beginner pattern creates a finished scarf measuring 78 inches in length and 9½ inches in width, featuring a cheerful two-color design with contrasting seed stitch sections on both ends and a textured center panel.

Techniques Used

This scarf is worked flat from the bottom up using larger needles to create a soft, squishy fabric. The construction method involves working with multiple yarn strands held together in certain sections, allowing crafters to achieve varied textures and color blocking within a single project. The pattern demonstrates how holding two strands as one creates different fabric characteristics compared to working with a single strand.

Stitches Used

• Seed Stitch: Used for the first 11 inches and final 11 inches of the scarf, created by alternating knit and purl stitches (k1, p1) across rows. This classic textured stitch creates a bumpy, reversible fabric that appears the same on both sides.
• Stockinette Stitch: The center section features a variation combining knit rows with a patterned wrong-side row (k5, p1 repeat), creating visual interest in the middle 56 inches of the scarf.
• Bind Off in Pattern: The final edge is bound off using the established stitch pattern to maintain consistency and elasticity.

Materials and Tools

This pattern requires Spud & Chloë Sweater yarn (55% Superwash Wool, 45% Certified Organic Cotton; 100g/160 yards per hank) in 2 hanks for color A, and Spud & Chloë Outer yarn (65% Superwash Wool, 35% Certified Organic Cotton; 100g/60 yards per hank) in 4 hanks for color B. The pattern shown uses Life Jacket (A) and Soapstone (B) colorways. Knitters will need Size 17 (12mm) needles or the size required to achieve proper gauge, along with a tapestry needle for weaving in ends. The gauge is 9 stitches and 12 rows over 4 inches when worked in seed stitch.

Pattern Overview

The McKinley Scarf begins with casting on 23 stitches using two strands of yarn A held together. The first section establishes the seed stitch pattern for 11 inches, creating a textured foundation. The middle section introduces yarn B as a single strand and incorporates a modified stockinette pattern that extends approximately 56 inches. The final section returns to two strands of yarn A and seed stitch for the closing 11 inches, creating a balanced, symmetrical design. The pattern is suitable for advanced beginners and produces a reversible, textured accessory that is gentle enough for regular wear and easy to care for with machine washing on a gentle cycle.