Rowan Corinthian Scarf Knitting Pattern

Rowan Corinthian Knitted Scarf

What is Being Made

The Corinthian is a knitted scarf (étole) designed by Martin Storey for Rowan. This intermediate-level project produces a finished scarf measuring 48 cm wide by 198 cm long, making it a substantial accessory suitable for draping and styling.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs multi-color knitting using a structured color-work approach. The scarf features a repeating fantasy stitch pattern (point fantaisie) that cycles through three distinct yarn colors in a carefully sequenced manner. The pattern uses an Intarsia or Fairisle method for color changes, producing a single-thickness knit fabric with color blocks rather than floated yarns across the back.

The construction involves a 64-row repeat sequence that establishes the color pattern, which is then repeated 10 times throughout the scarf length, followed by a final 32-row section to complete the design. Knitters must pay careful attention to gauge and tension to achieve the intended dimensions, as even minor variations will affect the final size and drape of the finished piece.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern combines knit stitches (maille endroit) and purl stitches (maille envers) in alternating blocks of 20 stitches. The fantasy stitch pattern is built on rows that alternate between all-knit rows and mixed knit-purl rows, creating textural variation and visual interest. The repeating 4-row unit (rows 1–4) forms the foundation of the pattern, with color changes introducing additional complexity and visual dimension to the finished fabric.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Corinthian uses Rowan Felted Tweed Colour yarn in three colorways:

• Color A: Chartreuse 028 (4 balls of 50g)
• Color B: Chestnut 024 (3 balls of 50g)
• Color C: Amethyst 026 (2 balls of 50g)

Knitting is worked on one pair of size 4 (3.5mm) needles. The recommended gauge is 21 stitches and 34 rows over 10 cm when working the fantasy stitch pattern on size 4 needles. Achieving this gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions.

Finishing and Care

After completing all knitting, the scarf requires blocking and pressing according to the finishing instructions provided in the accompanying information sheet. Careful finishing is important for setting the stitches and achieving the intended drape and appearance of the completed scarf.