Free Classic Scarf Crochet Pattern

Updated on 05/26/20

How to Crochet a Men's Scarf — Mollie Johanson

Project Overview

Skill Level: Beginner

Want to crochet a classic winter scarf? This free crochet pattern resembles a knit rib, but knitted it is not. This scarf is part of a matched set that includes a winter hat. Of course, this scarf isn't only for men. It makes an excellent gift for anyone!

Beginner to advanced beginner level, the project is suitable for crocheters who are comfortable with chain stitch, single crochet, and slip stitch. Most beginner crocheters learn the slip stitch early on. However, for this pattern, you will work slip stitch across entire rows, not as a here-and-there technique like you may usually see. If you aren't familiar with the basic anatomy of stitches, you may find it hard to figure out where to place each of these stitches since the stitches are so short. It would help if you got a little familiar with slip stitch in rows before proceeding with this scarf.

Sizing / Measurements

The scarf is worked across the length. You can change the size by changing the length of your starting chain. You can also easily adjust the width by working more or fewer rows.

Width: 5 inches

Length: 75 inches

Gauge

16 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in pattern stitch

If the exact size of the finished scarf is important to you, be sure to crochet a gauge swatch and match this suggested gauge. Row gauge is not vital, but it will make a difference in how much yarn you use.

Abbreviations

ch = chain
rep = repeat
sc = single crochet
sl st = slip stitch
st(s) = stitch(es)
tch = turning chain

Tip

All instructions use US crochet terms.

Yarn and Crochet Hook for Men's Scarf — Mollie Johanson

Equipment / Tools

US K/10.5 (6.5 mm) crochet hook
Yarn or tapestry needle
Scissors

Materials

400 to 500 yard DK / light worsted weight wool yarn

Make Chain

Ch 301.

Tip

You may want to use stitch markers to mark off every 25 stitches to help you keep count with such a long starting chain. Don't be too worried if you're a few chains off; this is a flexible design. You don't need an exact count if you aren't concerned that the actual length matches the intended length.
Work Into the Chain

Sl st in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch st across—300 sts. Turn.
Border

Work the border for beginning of the scarf.

Rows 1-2: ch 1 (tch), sl st in each sl st to end—300 sl sts. Turn.

Row 3: ch 1 (tch), sc into each sl st to end—300 sc sts. Turn.
Begin Pattern Stitch

Row 1: ch 1 (tch), sl st into front loop of sc in row below—300 sl sts.

Rows 2-3: ch 1 (turning chain), sl st in each sl st to end—300 sl sts. Turn.

Row 4: ch 1 (turning chain), sc in each sl st to end—300 sc sts. Turn.

Rep rows 1-4 until piece measures 4 1/2 inches, ending with a Row 4.

Tip

Working into the front loop of a stitch is like working into the back loop. Instead of inserting your hook under both loops to work a stitch, you insert it under only one, in this case only under the loop in front.
Border

Work border for end of scarf.

Next row: ch 1 (tch), sl st in each st to end—300 sts. Turn.

Rep last row two times.

Mollie Johanson
Finish

Fasten off and weave in ends. Block if desired.

Mollie Johanson

Finishing Touches

Add fringe in matching yarn or a coordinating color.
Attach some crocheted snowflakes for a fun wintery look.
Instead of fringe at the ends, work shell stitch for a scarf that any little girl would love!