Shibui Knits Octave Scarf Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Octave Striped Wrap

What Is Being Made

The Octave Striped Wrap is a versatile lightweight accessory designed by Erin Duffy that can be knit as either a scarf or a wrap. This piece features repeating stripes in harmonizing colors that gradually shift and scale across the fabric, creating a visually dynamic accessory suitable as an essential wardrobe staple. The scarf version measures 16.5 inches wide by 87 inches long, while the wrap version is 24 inches wide by 87 inches long.

Techniques Used

Octave is worked seamlessly and flat throughout the entire project using stockinette stitch. The pattern employs a strategic color-work technique where yarn is carried up the side of the work during stripe sections. When working stripes of four to six rows, the carried yarn is twisted around the working yarn every couple of rows to maintain tension and prevent loose loops along the edges. For sections using three colors or longer color blocks, yarn is cut and ends are woven in to avoid excessive bulk from carrying multiple colors.

Carrying Yarn Up the Side: This technique allows crafters to maintain continuity of color without cutting yarn between short stripe sections. By twisting the working yarn around the carried yarn periodically, the technique prevents sagging edges and creates a neat, finished appearance.

Weaving In Ends: The pattern recommends weaving in ends while knitting when possible. A 6-inch tail is left with the last color, and when joining a new color, two stitches are knit with the new yarn before continuing. This integrated approach to finishing reduces work at the end of the project.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The sole stitch used throughout the entire wrap, created by alternating knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side. This classic stitch creates a smooth, flat fabric ideal for showcasing the striped color work.

Stripe Pattern Sequence

The pattern is organized into distinct stripe sequences. The initial section uses two colors with the following sequence: 6 rows in Color B, followed by 20 rows in Color A. This is followed by a two-color striping section of (6 rows A, 6 rows C) repeated twice, then 20 rows in Color C. The pattern concludes with another two-color striping section of (6 rows A, 6 rows C) repeated twice.

Materials

Yarn: Shibui Knits Reed, a 100% linen yarn. The scarf version requires 3 skeins of Color A, 2 skeins of Color B, and 1 skein of Color C. The wrap version requires 4 skeins of Color A, 2 skeins of Color B, and 1 skein of Color C. Each skein contains 246 yards and weighs 50 grams. The wrap shown in the pattern features Ivory (Color A), Graphite (Color B), and Apple (Color C).

Needles and Tools: Size 7 (4.5 mm) needles are required to achieve the proper gauge. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in ends and finishing.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch after blocking, worked on Size 7 needles or the size needed to obtain gauge. Proper gauge is essential for achieving the finished dimensions of either the scarf or wrap version.

Skill Level

Octave is rated as a Beginner skill level project, making it accessible to knitters new to the craft while still offering the satisfaction of creating a sophisticated, wearable accessory.

Finishing

After completing all rows and binding off, the wrap is finished by weaving in any remaining ends and blocking to the specified measurements. Blocking helps even out the fabric and set the stripe pattern in place.