Shibui Knits CHROMA Scarf Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits CHROMA Scarf & Wrap

What Is Being Made

The CHROMA is a versatile colorblock scarf and wrap pattern designed by Antonia Shankland for Shibui Knits. This project offers two finished size options: a larger wrap measuring 105 inches in length by 19 inches in width, or a smaller scarf measuring 100 inches in length by 12 inches in width. The design features bold color blocking created by working alternating sections in different yarn colors, making it an ideal project for knitters who want to showcase multiple hues in a single, cohesive piece. The pattern is worked lengthwise, allowing crafters to easily customize the finished length by adjusting the depth of each color block section.

Techniques Used

CHROMA employs several key knitting techniques that make it an engaging project for knitters at the easy skill level. The piece is worked flat on straight or circular needles, meaning it is knitted back and forth in rows rather than in the round. The construction is seamless, eliminating the need for finishing seams. The pattern features bottom-up construction, beginning with a cast-on edge and building upward toward the finished length. Striping is achieved through color blocking, where the knitter breaks the working yarn and joins a new color to create distinct horizontal sections of contrasting hues throughout the wrap or scarf.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is a 5×5 rib, which alternates five knit stitches with five purl stitches across the fabric. This rib creates vertical texture and subtle dimensionality while maintaining excellent drape and elasticity. A seed stitch edging frames the piece, adding a refined finishing detail along the sides. The seed stitch alternates single knit and purl stitches to create a bumpy, textured border that contrasts beautifully with the main rib pattern. Slip stitch techniques are used at the edges for a polished selvage finish.

Materials and Yarn

CHROMA is knit using Shibui Billow, a luxurious blended yarn composed of 41% cotton, 35% baby alpaca, and 24% merino wool. This fiber combination creates a lofty, lightweight fabric with a subtle sheen. The yarn is described as "lofty wisps of lush merino and alpaca embracing a cotton core," resulting in an airy, breathable textile perfect for wraps and scarves. The wrap version requires seven 50-gram skeins (one skein each of seven colors), while the scarf version requires five 50-gram skeins (one skein each of five colors). Each skein contains 250 yards of yarn. For the wrap, the suggested color palette includes Velvet, Paprika, Ash, Tar, Pollen, Noire, and Graphite. The scarf shown features Pollen, Ash, Caper, Deep Water, and Abyss.

Tools and Gauge

The pattern calls for size 6 (4mm) needles, available as either straight needles or 24-inch circular needles, depending on knitter preference. A gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches is achieved in the 5×5 rib pattern after blocking, using one strand of Billow yarn. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions. Additional tools include 2 stitch markers to denote pattern sections and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Customization Options

The CHROMA pattern offers flexibility for personal preference. Knitters can shorten the finished piece by reducing the length of each color block section. For example, working each color block to 6 or 8 inches instead of the standard depth would yield a finished wrap or scarf approximately 84 or 80 inches long, respectively. This adaptability makes the pattern suitable for various preferences and yarn availability.