Rowan Nest Scarf Knitting Pattern

Rowan Nest Knitted Scarf

What is Being Made

The Rowan Nest is an intermediate-level knitted scarf designed by Erika Knight. This project creates a finished scarf measuring 216 cm x 54 cm (approximately 85 inches by 21 inches), constructed from 36 individual knitted squares that are assembled together. Each square measures approximately 18 cm (7 inches) on each side. The modular construction method makes this an engaging project that builds progressively as you complete each square unit.

Techniques Used

This scarf employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques that make it suitable for knitters with some experience:

• Garter stitch — the primary stitch throughout the project, created by knitting every row to produce a textured, reversible fabric
• Increases — used systematically to expand each square from a small cast-on to its full size, with increases worked into stitches to add new loops
• Color work — the pattern incorporates multiple yarn colors worked in specific sequences to create visual interest and pattern definition within each square
• Modular assembly — individual completed squares are sewn together using mattress stitch with contrasting yarn, requiring careful attention to orientation
• Finishing techniques — including blocking, yarn weaving, and seaming with attention to right and wrong sides for professional results

Stitches Used

The Rowan Nest pattern relies primarily on garter stitch, which is created by knitting every row. This fundamental stitch is worked consistently throughout all 36 squares. The pattern also incorporates yarn-over increases and knit-through-back-loop increases to shape each square from its initial 2-stitch cast-on to a maximum of 35 stitches. The assembly phase uses mattress stitch (also called ladder stitch or whip stitch) to join the completed squares with invisible seams.

Materials and Specifications

This knitted scarf project requires specific materials to achieve the intended finished results:

• Yarn — Rowan brand yarns in multiple colors: Pebble Island (50g) as the primary yarn A, Kelp 028 as yarn B (13 units), and Tussac 023 for contrasting stitches. The pattern uses color blocking, alternating between yarn A and yarn B in specific sequences to create the design
• Needles — One pair of size 4½ (3.75mm) knitting needles
• Gauge — 20 stitches and 38 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in garter stitch on size 4½ needles. Achieving correct gauge is essential for the squares to measure the intended 18 cm per side
• Additional materials — Contrasting yarn for assembly and a yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming squares together

Construction Process

Each of the 36 squares follows an identical construction method. You begin with a 2-stitch cast-on and work increases on nearly every row, expanding the square systematically. The pattern alternates between yarn A and yarn B in designated color blocks, creating visual sections within each square. Rows are worked in garter stitch, and the square grows from 2 stitches to a maximum of 35 stitches before decreasing back down to 2 stitches for binding off. Once all 36 squares are complete, they are assembled according to a provided mounting diagram, with careful attention paid to the orientation of right and wrong sides. Squares are joined using mattress stitch with contrasting yarn, creating decorative seams that become part of the design.