Valley Yarns Winter Jasmine Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Winter Jasmine Knitted Scarf

What Is Being Made

The Winter Jasmine is an intricately cabled knitted scarf designed by Julie Turjoman for Valley Yarns. This accessory measures 11 inches wide by 72 inches long when finished, making it a substantial yet wearable piece perfect for winter layering. The scarf is worked in one piece, constructed flat from end to end using the knit-flat technique, which means it is created by working back and forth in rows rather than in the round.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This advanced-level project showcases classic cable knitting techniques combined with strategic stitch pattern placement. The scarf features a sophisticated construction approach that combines multiple stitch patterns to create visual interest and structural integrity.

• Cables: The Winter Jasmine is built around an abundance of classic cables that form the primary design element. The center features a 16-stitch cable repeat that measures 2¼ inches when blocked, with one strand of yarn held together. Side cables are worked every 8 rows, creating a rhythmic pattern throughout the length of the scarf.
• Garter Stitch Edging: Long sides of the scarf are edged in garter stitch to prevent the fabric from rolling, a practical consideration for maintaining the scarf's finished appearance.
• Ribbed Hems: Both short ends are finished with k2/p2 (knit 2, purl 2) ribbing, which provides elasticity and a polished edge.
• Yarn Holding Method: One strand of Valley Yarns Northampton is carried along with one strand of Valley Yarns Southampton throughout the project, creating a plush, textured fabric through this two-strand construction.

Stitches Used

The Winter Jasmine employs a carefully orchestrated combination of fundamental knitting stitches to achieve its elegant appearance. The pattern incorporates knit stitches, purl stitches, and twisted purl stitches (p tbl) to create definition and texture. The ribbed sections use alternating knit and purl stitches in a 2x2 pattern, while the cable field utilizes cable crosses worked with a cable needle to create the dimensional twisted rope effects characteristic of cable knitting. Stockinette stitch forms the base of the cable sections, providing a smooth background that allows the cables to stand out prominently.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Winter Jasmine pattern calls for a two-yarn combination that creates a luxurious finished fabric. Valley Yarns Northampton is a 100% wool yarn available in 100-gram skeins with 247 yards per skein. The project requires 5 skeins in color (41) Garnet. Valley Yarns Southampton is a premium blend of 72% kid mohair and 28% mulberry silk, offered in 25-gram skeins with 230 yards per skein, also requiring 5 skeins in color (031) Garnet. The combination of these two yarns creates a plush, sophisticated texture that justifies the designer's statement that this is "a plush choice for this intricately cabled scarf."

Construction requires US size 7 (4.5 mm) needles or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. Additional materials include stitch markers, a cable needle for managing cable crosses, and a tapestry needle for finishing. The recommended gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when working with one strand of each yarn held together and blocked.

Skill Level and Project Suitability

This pattern is rated as Experienced, making it an excellent choice for knitters with solid foundational skills who are ready to tackle cable work. The project is specifically designed for "the knitter who loves cables but doesn't have time to knit a sweater," offering an efficient way to practice and showcase cable techniques without committing to a large garment project. The finished scarf's "abundance of classic style" ensures it will remain a wardrobe staple throughout the winter season.