Valley Yarns Scorpius Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Scorpius Knit Scarf

What is Being Made

The Scorpius is a long asymmetrical knit scarf designed by Julie Turjoman for Valley Yarns. This beginner-friendly project measures 9½ inches wide by 73 inches long (not including fringe) and features an elegant fringed finish at both ends. The scarf is specifically designed as a sophisticated accessory for cool spring weather, combining dynamic color work with graceful drape and airiness.

Techniques Used

This knit scarf employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners:

• Flat knitting: The scarf is worked in one piece, back and forth in rows from short end to short end, rather than in the round
• Striping: The design features dynamic striping created by working with three sophisticated colors in alternating sections
• Color carrying: When working narrow two-row stripes, yarn colors not in use are carried up the side of the piece to minimize finishing work
• Long-Tail cast-on: The pattern uses the Long-Tail cast-on method to begin the project
• Fringe finishing: Fringe is added during the finishing phase for subtle drama at both ends

Stitches Used

The Scorpius pattern incorporates two primary stitches:

• Garter stitch: Used for edge stitches (5 stitches on each side) to prevent the stockinette stitch from rolling and create a finished appearance
• Stockinette stitch: The main stitch used for the body of the scarf, created by knitting on right-side rows and purling on wrong-side rows to achieve the characteristic smooth, elegant fabric

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Valley Yarns Westhampton, which is 100% Pima Cotton with a silky soft hand and graceful drape. The yarn requirements are:

• Main Color (MC) Natural (01): 3 balls (50 g/109 yards each)
• Contrast Color 1 (CC1) Straw (02): 2 balls
• Contrast Color 2 (CC2) First Snow (21): 2 balls

Needles and Tools: US size 6 (4.00 mm) needles are required, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional materials include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and a size E/5 crochet hook for adding fringe.

Gauge: The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, blocked. Achieving proper gauge is essential for the finished scarf to measure the intended dimensions.

Skill Level and Design Notes

This pattern is rated as Beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to color work and striped designs. The use of garter stitch edges is a practical design element that prevents the stockinette stitch body from rolling at the sides. The technique of carrying yarn up the side of the piece during narrow two-row stripes is an efficient approach that reduces the number of ends to weave in during finishing, making the project more manageable for beginners.