Gradient Stripes
Gradient Stripes Scarf
Self striping and long repeat variegated yarns are able to create some wonderful and surprising effects in your knitting. This scarf shows you one way you can make a very dramatic looking yet very easy scarf. Note: I do not claim credit for creating this design. This is just my variation of a very common technique. Materials: 2 skeins of Casa Blanca or Souk yarn by Cascade in two different colors. Other similar weight yarns that contain very long stretches of colorwillalsowork. Needles: size 6 Stitch Guide: K = knit P = purl Slip your first stitch on each row purl-wise with your yarn in front. Cast on 40 stitches loosely. (Note: Casa Blanca is a rather delicate yarn to work with. A knitted caston works better than a long-tail cast on.) If you desire a wider scarf be sure to cast on an even number of stitches.
Pattern
Each row of the pattern is the same. Slip the first stitch, \*K1, P1, repeat from \* across. Do two rows of the pattern with the first color and then switch to the second color and do two rows with it as well. Do not cut your first yarn from your work. You will continue to work two rows of one color and then two rows of the second until your desired length. In order to keep your yarn from making inconsistent loops as you switch back and forth between the two colors you must "twist" the yarns when you make your switch. To twist the yarns when you make your switch you will take the yarn you just finished with and move it to the back of your work; away from you. Bring the new yarn under the previous yarn forward and up to start your next row. It is important to keep your twists consistent for an even edge to your scarf. When you reach your desired length bind off and weave in your ends. Consider adding fringe for a different look. Alternative pattern: This pattern is a simple rib stitch. It results in a flat and fairly thick scarf with a lot of give. You can get the same striping effect by doing a seed stitch instead. The stripes will be more blended and the scarf will be flat and thinner. You can accomplish a seed stitch by casting on an odd number of stitches and following the same pattern.
