Steps Scarf - Free Pattern
The Steps Scarf is a clever, eye-catching knit that transforms the natural color shifts of KnitPal Wool Wonders yarn into a playful step-like pattern. Worked in simple stitches with periodic bind-offs and cable cast-ons, this design creates bold blocks of gradient color that look far more intricate than they are. Lightweight, cozy, and beginner-friendly, this project is perfect for showcasing variegated yarns and adding a pop of personality to any handmade wardrobe.
Download a printable pattern PDF
What You’ll Need
-
Yarn:
KnitPal Wool Wonders (#4 worsted, 30% Australian wool and 70%acrylic, 160 yds/100g)2 skeins, shown in colorway Flaming Orange
-
Needles:
US 8 / 5 mm needles, or size needed to obtain gauge -
Notions:
Tapestry needle
Details
-
Skill Level: Easy
-
Gauge: 4x4”/10x10cm = 18 stitches x 32 rows in pattern
- Size: 52" / 142 cm x 7.5" / 19 cm
Abreviations
- k: knit
- p: purl
- pw: purlwise
- rep: repeat
- sl: slip stitch
- st(s): stitch(es)
- wyib: with yarn in back
- yf: bring yarn to front (not yarn over)
Special Stitches
Cable Cast-on (end of row)
At the end of the current row, move the right-hand needle to the left hand (turn the work as if you are now starting the new row).
Insert the right needle between the first and second stitch on the left needle, right into the space between the stitches.
Wrap the working yarn like you would for a normal knit stitch and pull the stitch through onto the right needle. Do not let any stitches drop off the left needle.
Then, without twisting it, slide that stitch onto the left needle.
Repeat these steps for however many stitches you are casting on and remember that it is important to cast on loosely. If the stitches are too tight, it will get difficult to knit your next row.
You are now ready to work on the new row. The last Cable Cast-On stitch is the first stitch of the new row.
Notes
-
Row count approximates the color change lengths, allowing each Step to be one color. Variations in tension may cause as light difference in the color blocks. It is the maker’s choice to either keep the row counts as noted, or change the row counts within each step to maintain the color change flow. If the row count is altered, it must be an even number of rows before the next bind-off / cast-on, or the steps will fall on the wrong side of the scarf.
-
Selvedge stitch is included in the pattern.
Pattern
Download a printable pattern PDF
Cast on 35 stitches.
Row 1: Sl 1 PW wyib, yf, *p3, k3; rep from * to last4 sts, p3, k1.
Row 2 - 16: Rep Row 1.
Row 17: Bind off 6 sts, *p3, k3; rep from * to last 4sts, p3, k1. Cable Cast On 6 sts.
Row 18: Rep Row 1.
Rep Rows 1 - 18 for a total of 23 times (or until you run out of yarn), ending last rep with Row 16.
Bind off in pattern. Weave in ends.
Download a printable pattern PDF
Share Your Finished Piece!
We love seeing your creations—and this pattern is especially meaningful.
If you post your beanie on Instagram, please tag @knitpalusa so we can cheer you on!
And if you’d like more soft, gentle yarns perfect for charity crafting, KnitPal has so many beautiful options to keep your hooks busy and your heart full.
With permission of the designer, this pattern and photos are property of KnitPal and may not be altered, shared, or sold. Do not rewrite any part of this design and sell as your own design. You’re welcome to sell finished products made with this pattern, but please credit the design to KnitPal https://knitpal.com/
