Shibui Knits Delft Scarf Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Delft Bias-Knit Ribbed Scarf

What is Being Made

The Delft is a sophisticated, one-size scarf measuring 8 inches in width and 78 inches in length. Designed by Elizabeth Elliott, this accessory combines style with comfort through a unique geometric construction. The scarf is available in two distinct versions: a striking striped rendition featuring contrasting colors with a grid effect created by slipped stitches, or a subtle single-color option that showcases the pattern's understated elegance.

Techniques Used

Delft employs several advanced knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive character. The scarf is worked flat on straight needles in a bottom-up construction, making it seamless with no finishing required. The defining feature is bias shaping, which occurs at the beginning of each row and is particularly emphasized within the I-Cord Edging, creating the geometric visual interest that distinguishes this design. The pattern incorporates slipped-stitch ribbing that is fully reversible, allowing the scarf to be worn with either side facing outward. Additional techniques include yarn-over increases, knit through the back loop, and strategic color changes that integrate seamlessly into the stitch pattern.

Stitches Used

The main body stitch pattern is a reversible slipped-stitch rib worked over a multiple of 18 stitches. The pattern alternates between knit and purl stitches combined with slipped stitches worked with yarn in back (wyib) or yarn in front (wyif), creating the textured ribbed surface. The I-Cord Edging frames the scarf's edges, while increases are worked using yarn-overs (yo) and knit through the back loop (k1 tbl) at strategic points. Decreases are incorporated through purl two together (p2tog) to maintain shaping. The stitch pattern creates both visual and tactile interest through the interplay of knit, purl, and slipped stitches.

Materials and Tools

Delft is designed to be knitted with Shibui Knits Reed, a 100% linen yarn. The striped version requires 3 skeins of Color A and 1 skein of Color B, while the one-color version uses 3 skeins of a single color. The pattern shown features Bone as Color A and Blueprint as Color B. Each skein of Reed contains 246 yards and weighs 50 grams. Knitting needles required include Size 4 (3.5 mm) and Size 5 (3.75 mm) needles. The gauge is 26 stitches and 43 rows over 4 inches in the main body stitch pattern after blocking, worked with one strand of Reed on size 4 needles. Additional tools include stitch markers, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and blocking wires, which are recommended for achieving optimal drape and dimension in the finished scarf.

Skill Level and Pattern Characteristics

This pattern is rated as Easy+, making it accessible to knitters with some foundational experience while offering engaging techniques that provide a satisfying challenge. The supple, soft fabric created by linen yarn combined with the reversible slipped-stitch rib construction produces a scarf that is equally beautiful on both sides, adding versatility to this elegant accessory.