Shibui Knits Scroll Scarf Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Scroll Short Row Scarf

What is Being Made

The Scroll is a lightweight, elegant scarf designed by Scott Rohr that showcases a dramatic curving center created through strategic short-row shaping. This one-size scarf measures approximately 9 inches in width and 80 inches in length after blocking, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various styling options. The design combines classic knitting aesthetics with a contemporary chevron pattern that adds visual interest and movement to the finished piece.

Techniques Used

This scarf employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance. The primary shaping method is German Short Rows (GSR), which create the signature chevron and curving scroll pattern that runs lengthwise through the scarf. The scarf is worked flat on circular needles, progressing from bottom to top in a seamless construction. The pattern alternates between garter stitch and stockinette stitch sections, with the short rows strategically placed to generate the curved, scrolling visual effect. The scarf is worked in multiple 40-stitch sections across its width, with each section built using the German Short Row technique to create the dramatic chevron shaping.

Stitches Used

The Scroll scarf utilizes two fundamental stitches throughout its construction. Garter stitch forms the foundation and appears in multiple sections of the pattern, creating a textured, reversible fabric. Stockinette stitch is also incorporated, adding visual contrast and creating the transparency effects that characterize the finished scarf. The combination of these two stitches, worked with the German Short Row technique, produces the distinctive chevron pattern and curving center that defines the design.

Materials and Gauge

The Scroll scarf is constructed using two complementary Shibui Knits yarns held together throughout the project. Pebble (48% Recycled Silk, 36% Fine Merino, 16% Cashmere; 224 yards per 25 grams) is used at one strand, paired with Silk Cloud (60% Kid Mohair, 40% Silk; 330 yards per 25 grams) at alternating single and double strands. This fiber combination creates a lightweight, ethereal fabric with interesting transparency effects. The pattern requires 2 skeins of Pebble and 2 skeins of Silk Cloud to complete the project.

The recommended gauge is 16 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches in garter stitch after blocking, achieved using size 7 (4.5mm) circular needles (32 or 40 inches in length). Knitters should work to their own gauge using the needle size needed to obtain these specifications. The scarf begins with a cast-on of 320 stitches and requires a tapestry needle for finishing. Optional blocking wires are recommended to help set the scarf's shape and dimensions after completion.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Easy +, making it accessible to knitters with basic skills who are ready to expand their technique repertoire. While the pattern uses fundamental stitches, the German Short Row technique requires careful attention to pattern instructions and stitch management, making it an ideal project for developing intermediate skills.