Classic Crochet Scarf
If you have just learned to crochet, start here. This scarf is nothing but rows of half double crochet, so every row gives you a little more practice with even tension and counting stitches.
- Skill level
- Absolute Beginner
- Finished size
- About 7 × 60 in (18 × 152 cm), not including fringe
- Yarn weight
- Bulky
- Hook
- 6.5 mm (US K-10½)
- Time
- About 6–8 hours
- Terminology
- US terms
Gauge: 12 hdc and 9 rows = 4 in (10 cm). Gauge isn’t critical, but it changes the width and the amount of yarn you use.
On this page
About this pattern
Bulky yarn and a large hook make progress quick and stitches easy to see. The scarf is 21 stitches wide — a comfortable width that is easy to count — and about 60 inches long, which wraps nicely around most adults.
The most common beginner problem with scarves is edges that wander in or out. The notes and tips below show how to keep the stitch count steady, so your scarf stays neat from the first row to the last.
Why you'll love it
- Just one stitch, repeated
- Bulky yarn means visible progress every evening
- Easy to make longer, wider or striped
- A classic handmade gift
Materials
Bulky (#5) yarn
Estimated. Add about 20 yd (18 m) for the fringe.
About 300–350 yd (275–320 m)
6.5 mm (US K-10½) crochet hook
Tapestry needle and scissors
Abbreviations
- ch
- chain
- hdc
- half double crochetUK: htr
- st(s)
- stitch(es)
- rep
- repeat
This pattern uses US terms. Convert US ↔ UK terms
Stitches used
Notes before you start
- The turning chain (ch 2) does not count as a stitch — work the first hdc into the very first stitch of the row.
- You should have 21 stitches at the end of every row. Count every few rows.
- Lay the scarf flat now and then to check that the edges are straight.
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The pattern
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Tick rows and rounds as you finish them — your progress is saved on this device.
Scarf
Finishing
Tips
- Relax your grip on the yarn — tight tension makes the scarf stiff and slows you down.
- Put a stitch marker in the last stitch of each row so you never miss it.
- Choose a light, smooth yarn for your first scarf; dark or fuzzy yarn hides the stitches.
Variations
- Chunky cowl
- Work only 26 in (66 cm), then sew the short ends together to make a loop.
- Simple stripes
- Change color every 6 rows, joining the new color on the last yarn over of the row before.
- Ridged texture
- From Row 2 onward, work each hdc into the back loop only for neat horizontal ridges.
Common questions
Why is my scarf getting wider or narrower?
You are gaining or losing stitches at the edges. Count to 21 at the end of each row and make sure you work into the very first and last stitch.
How long should a scarf be?
Adult scarves are commonly 60–70 in (152–178 cm) long. For children, about 40–50 in (100–127 cm) is plenty.
Can I use worsted-weight yarn?
Yes. Use a 5–5.5 mm hook and start with a slightly longer chain — about ch 26 (24 hdc) — to keep a similar width, then check your gauge. You will need more rows and a little more yarn.
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