Nosara Scarf Knitting Pattern

Nosara Scarf in Juniper Moon Farm Cumulus

What Is Being Made

The Nosara Scarf is a lightweight knitted accessory designed by Tabetha Hedrick. This finished scarf measures 60 inches in length and 4¾ inches in width, making it an elegant, versatile piece suitable for layering or draping. The scarf features decorative borders at both ends with a central patterned body, creating visual interest and texture throughout the piece.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for 2 x 100g skeins of Juniper Moon Farm Cumulus yarn in color #5 Marigold. The project is worked on US 8 (5 mm) needles, with a tapestry needle required for finishing. The Cumulus yarn provides a soft, drapable base ideal for a scarf that will have excellent flow and comfort against the skin.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is designed to achieve a gauge of 19 stitches and 27 rows over 4 inches in the Nosara stitch pattern. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished scarf meets the intended measurements of 60 inches long by 4¾ inches wide.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Nosara Scarf employs two primary stitch patterns:

• Nosara Stitch: A 12-row repeat pattern worked over a multiple of 10 stitches plus 3. This stitch creates an intricate lace-like texture through the strategic use of yarn overs and decreases. The pattern features yarn overs (yo) paired with slip-slip-knit decreases (ssk) that shift progressively across the row, creating a diagonal movement and openwork effect. Rows 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 contain the active shaping, while rows 11 and 12 provide rest rows with stockinette and reverse stockinette sections. All even-numbered wrong-side rows follow a consistent knit-purl sequence.
• K1P1 Rib: A classic alternating knit-and-purl rib pattern used for the top and bottom borders. This elastic, textured border provides structure and prevents curling at the scarf edges. The rib is worked over a multiple of 2 stitches plus 3.

Construction Method

The scarf is constructed in three distinct sections. First, a 4-inch K1P1 rib border is cast on with 23 stitches and worked from the cast-on edge. Following this, the main body transitions into the Nosara stitch pattern and continues for approximately 56 inches, creating the central focal point of the piece. Finally, a matching 4-inch K1P1 rib border is worked before binding off loosely. This three-part construction ensures balanced visual weight and functional edge definition.

Key Techniques

Several important knitting techniques are employed throughout this pattern. Slipped stitches are used at the beginning of every row to create a smooth, neat selvedge edge that enhances the finished appearance. Yarn overs add decorative eyelets and increase stitches within the pattern repeat. Slip-slip-knit (ssk) decreases are paired with yarn overs to maintain stitch count while creating the characteristic lace texture. The pattern requires attention to row counting and stitch alignment to maintain the integrity of the Nosara stitch repeat.

Finishing

After completing all rows, the scarf is blocked to the specified measurements to even out the stitches and allow the lace pattern to open fully. All yarn ends are woven in securely using the tapestry needle, ensuring a polished, professional finish.