Metro Bias Scarf

Metro Bias Scarf by Two of Wands

What is Being Made

The Metro Bias Scarf is a beginner-friendly knitted scarf designed to measure 90 inches in length and 9 inches in width. This project creates a finished accessory worked on the bias, which produces a distinctive diagonal grain across the fabric. The scarf features a multicolor striped design using four coordinating yarn colors from Lion Brand Yarn Color Made Easy.

Design and Construction Technique

This scarf employs a bias knitting technique, which means the fabric is worked at a diagonal angle rather than in traditional vertical rows. The bias construction is achieved through a strategic pattern of increases and decreases: one stitch is decreased at the beginning of each wrong-side row and one stitch is increased at the end of each wrong-side row. This creates the characteristic slanted appearance and allows the scarf to drape elegantly when worn.

The pattern includes a practical design feature where yarn may be carried up the side of the work during thin striping sections. This technique reduces the number of yarn ends that need to be woven in at the completion of the project, making finishing more efficient. All color changes occur on right-side rows, simplifying the construction process.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Garter Stitch: The primary stitch throughout the scarf, created by knitting every row. This produces a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges on both sides.
• Cast On: The scarf begins with 34 stitches cast onto the needles to establish the initial row.
• Knit Stitch (K): The fundamental knit stitch forms the entire fabric structure.
• Knit Two Together (K2tog): A decrease stitch used to reduce stitch count at the beginning of wrong-side rows.
• Knit into Front and Back (KFB): An increase stitch used to add stitches at the end of wrong-side rows, maintaining stitch count balance.
• Color Changes: The pattern incorporates four distinct yarn colors (Basalt, Caviar, Shade, and Wheat) that are changed on right-side rows to create horizontal stripes.

Materials and Tools

The Metro Bias Scarf requires chunky weight yarn in four colors from Lion Brand Yarn Color Made Easy: one skein each of Basalt (195-150), Caviar (195-153), Shade (195-149), and Wheat (195-124). The project uses Size US 11 (8mm) knitting needles, which are appropriately sized for chunky yarn and contribute to the scarf's quick completion. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends during finishing.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 11 stitches and 21 rows equaling 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked in garter stitch. This gauge measurement is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions of 90 inches long by 9 inches wide. Working at the correct gauge ensures the scarf will have the proper drape and proportions designed by Two of Wands.

Skill Level

This project is classified as a beginner-level pattern, making it ideal for knitters new to the craft or those looking for a straightforward, satisfying project. The pattern uses only basic knitting techniques—knit stitches, simple increases, and decreases—combined with color changes to create visual interest without requiring advanced skills.