With winter fast approaching, there is no better time to get cosy, pick up the knitting needles and start work on your very own handmade winter accessories. For those who are just starting out on their knitting adventure, a scarf is a simple and highly rewarding first project that allows you to put into practice the widely used knit stitch.

Ensure that you choose a good yarn for your scarf, with many knitters preferring the soft, warm, and cosy feel of alpaca yarn or wool. However, complete beginners may find that knitting a scarf in acrylic is the best option for starting out, as this is not prone to splitting and is easy to work with.

Instructions

Use the needles to cast on a total of 16 stitches.

The scarf will be completed in garter stitch, which is when the pattern consists of back-to-back knit stitches.

The knit stitch has 4 easy steps:

1.      Insert the needle from the left to the right.

2.      In an anti-clockwise motion, wrap the yarn around the needle.

3.      Pull the yarn through.

4.      Finally, use your needles to slip the stitch.

Row 1 will be completed by knitting every stitch in the knit stitch. Row 2 will be completed by knitting every stitch. You will then repeat rows 1 and 2.

Continue until the scarf is around 1.6 yards in length.

Knitting Kits

If you are looking for ideas on what to create next, look no further than knitting kits for beginners. Knitting kits come in a variety of options and are perfect for those looking for inspiration. They come in a range of skill levels, so advanced knitters can also enjoy the convenience of a kit.

Specialists such as stitchandstory.com/collections/knitting-kits stock a whole host of knitting kits that contain everything you need to start and complete a project of your choice, taking the guesswork out of shopping for supplies.

As well as knitting helping to increase concentration and focus and decrease stress levels, scarves and other lovingly crafted, hand-knitted items make for great personalised gifts.