Wrap Yourself in Warmth: A Beginner’s Guide to Knitting an Infinity Scarf

The infinity scarf, also known as a circle scarf or loop scarf, is a versatile and stylish accessory that’s perfect for keeping cozy and adding a touch of flair to any outfit. Unlike traditional scarves with ends, an infinity scarf is a continuous loop, making it incredibly easy to wear – no need to worry about it slipping off or figuring out how to tie it! Best of all, it’s a fantastic project for beginner knitters. If you’re new to the craft, or simply want a quick and satisfying project, knitting an infinity scarf is a great place to start. This guide will walk you through each step of the process, providing clear instructions and helpful tips along the way. Let’s get those needles clicking!

Why Knit an Infinity Scarf?

Before we dive into the instructions, let’s explore why knitting an infinity scarf is such a rewarding project:

• Beginner-Friendly: The basic knit stitch is the foundation for most infinity scarves, making it ideal for those just starting to learn how to knit.
• Quick and Satisfying: Compared to more complex projects, an infinity scarf works up quickly, providing a sense of accomplishment in a relatively short amount of time.
• Versatile Accessory: An infinity scarf can be styled in countless ways – wear it long, looped twice, as a shawl, or even as a hood.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the length and width to suit your personal preference. You also have a huge range of yarn options, allowing you to create a truly unique piece.
• Great Gift Idea: A handmade infinity scarf makes a thoughtful and appreciated gift for friends and family.
• Relaxing and Therapeutic: The repetitive motion of knitting can be incredibly calming and meditative.

Materials You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following materials:

• Yarn: The type of yarn you choose will greatly impact the look and feel of your finished scarf. For beginners, a medium-weight (worsted weight) yarn is recommended as it’s easy to handle. Consider wool, acrylic, or a blend. Avoid novelty yarns with lots of texture for your first project, as they can be more difficult to work with. The amount of yarn you’ll need will depend on the desired length and width of your scarf. A good starting point is 200-300 yards. Always check the yarn label for gauge information.
• Knitting Needles: Choose a size of knitting needles that corresponds to the recommended gauge of your yarn. Typically, US size 7-9 (4.5-5.5mm) needles are suitable for worsted weight yarn. Circular needles are ideal for knitting infinity scarves in the round, preventing a seam. If you choose to knit flat then you will need straight needles. Circular needles, even if knitting flat, can be useful due to their length.
• Scissors: For cutting the yarn.
• Tapestry Needle (or Yarn Needle): For weaving in the loose ends once you’ve finished your scarf.
• Stitch Marker (Optional): Helpful for marking the beginning of a row when knitting in the round.
• Measuring Tape (Optional): To check your progress and ensure your scarf is the desired length and width.

Understanding Basic Knitting Techniques

Before we start with the scarf itself, let’s briefly cover a few basic knitting techniques you will need to know:

• Casting On: This is how you create the initial row of stitches on your needle, establishing the foundation for your project. There are many methods for casting on, but for beginners, the long-tail cast-on is a popular choice.
• The Knit Stitch: This is the fundamental stitch in knitting and will be the only stitch you need for a simple garter stitch infinity scarf.
• Binding Off: This is how you secure the stitches at the end of your project, preventing them from unraveling.
• Weaving in Ends: This is the process of concealing the loose yarn ends from casting on and binding off.

Choosing Your Knitting Method: Flat or In the Round

There are two primary ways to knit an infinity scarf: flat or in the round.

Knitting Flat

Knitting flat involves working back and forth in rows, creating a rectangle that you will then sew together to form the loop of the infinity scarf. This method is ideal if you are comfortable with basic knitting but are not familiar with circular knitting techniques.

Knitting in the Round

Knitting in the round involves working continuously in a spiral, creating a seamless tube. This method requires circular needles and is often considered a bit more advanced. However, it eliminates the need for a seam, resulting in a smooth and professional-looking finished project. You can do this with a circular needle or a double pointed needle. We will be using the circular needle for this example

For this guide, we will focus on knitting the infinity scarf flat, as it’s the most straightforward method for beginners. We’ll include instructions for knitting in the round at the end for those who wish to try it.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Knitting Your Infinity Scarf Flat

Here’s how to knit your infinity scarf flat, step by step:

Step 1: Casting On

1. Prepare your yarn: Pull a length of yarn from your skein, leaving about 6-8 inches for weaving in later. This is the tail yarn.
2. Make a Slip Knot: Create a loop in your yarn, then insert your needle into the loop and tighten it gently. This forms the first stitch on your needle.
3. Long Tail Cast On: The long tail method, allows you to cast on easily and create a stretchy edge. Here’s how to do it:
   • Hold the tail yarn in your left hand, extending it between your thumb and index finger. Hold the working yarn (attached to the ball of yarn) in your right hand.
   • Form a loop by crossing the tail yarn over the working yarn.
   • Insert the knitting needle from the bottom of the loop towards the top.
   • Bring the needle down over the tail yarn
   • Pull the working yarn taut.
   • Repeat, adding the new loop onto the needle until you reach your desired number of stitches.
4. Cast On Number: Cast on approximately 150-200 stitches for a standard width infinity scarf. For a wider scarf, cast on more stitches. For a narrower scarf, cast on fewer stitches. The final number will depend on your desired width and yarn. It is essential you cast on your chosen number of stitches in an even number.

Step 2: Knit Every Row (Garter Stitch)

This scarf will be knit entirely in garter stitch, which is achieved by knitting every row. Here’s how to do a knit stitch:

1. Hold your needles: Hold the needle with the cast-on stitches in your left hand. Hold the empty needle in your right hand.
2. Insert the needle: Insert the right-hand needle into the first stitch on the left-hand needle, going from front to back.
3. Wrap the yarn: Wrap the working yarn (coming from the yarn ball) around the right-hand needle, going from back to front.
4. Pull through a new stitch: With the right needle, draw the wrapped yarn through the loop.
5. Slip the old stitch: Gently remove the old stitch from the left-hand needle, leaving a new stitch on the right needle.
6. Repeat: Repeat this process for all stitches in the row.
7. Turn your work: After you reach the end of the row, switch the needles in your hands, so the needle with the new row of stitches is in your left hand.
8. Knit the second row: Knit every stitch in this row just like you did in the first row.
9. Repeat for all Rows: Repeat this process of knitting every stitch in every row until your scarf is as long as you would like. A good starting point is approximately 50-60 inches, however, this depends entirely on personal preference.

Step 3: Binding Off

Once your scarf is long enough, you need to bind off all stitches to prevent them from unraveling. Here’s how:

1. Knit Two Stitches: Knit the first two stitches on your needle.
2. Pass the First Stitch Over: Using the tip of the left-hand needle, lift the first stitch over the second stitch and off the needle. One stitch is bound off, and you have one stitch left on your right-hand needle.
3. Knit One Stitch: Knit one stitch.
4. Pass the First Stitch Over: Use the left needle to pass the stitch on the right needle over and off the needle.
5. Repeat: Continue repeating steps 3 and 4 until you are left with one stitch on your right needle.
6. Cut the Yarn: Cut the working yarn, leaving a tail of about 6-8 inches.
7. Pull Through: Gently pull the yarn through the remaining loop and tighten it, securing the end.

Step 4: Finishing: Seaming the Scarf

Now you have a knitted rectangle, and you will need to seam it into a loop to create your infinity scarf:

1. Lay Flat: Lay the rectangle flat on a clean surface.
2. Align Edges: Bring the short edges of the rectangle together, aligning them neatly. You may choose to lay your work on a large surface, and bring both ends together, turning the material inside out, or just hold the ends together to seam.
3. Thread the Tapestry Needle: Thread the tail of yarn from your bind off end through the tapestry needle.
4. Whip Stitch: Use the tapestry needle to whip stitch the two ends together with the tail. Pick up one stitch from each edge and weave your needle through, drawing the yarn tight. Continue until both ends are attached. It is important to try and make this as invisible as possible.
5. Weaving in Tails: Using the tapestry needle, weave the tail through the back of the knitting to hide and secure the seam. Once you have done this, do the same with the cast-on tail. Trim the ends flush with the knitting.

Knitting in the Round: An Alternative Method

If you prefer to knit in the round, follow these modified instructions:

1. Cast On: Cast on the desired number of stitches (approximately 150-200) onto your circular needles. Ensure that your stitches are not twisted.
2. Join in the Round: Be sure that your cast on stitches are not twisted before continuing. Join the stitches to form a circle, placing a stitch marker on the needle to indicate the beginning of your rounds. Be very careful not to twist the yarn at this point.
3. Knit Every Round: Knit every stitch in each round continuously. As you knit in the round, you will be creating a tube. Continue knitting until your scarf reaches your desired length.
4. Bind Off: Once your scarf reaches the desired length, bind off the stitches just as you did when knitting flat.
5. Weave in Ends: Use the tapestry needle to weave in the beginning and ending tails, securing and concealing them.

Tips for Success

• Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first few rows aren’t perfect. Knitting takes practice, and you will get better with each row.
• Consistent Tension: Try to maintain consistent tension while knitting to create an even fabric. Avoid knitting too tightly or too loosely.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Unravel: If you make a mistake, don’t hesitate to unravel your work (this is known as “frogging”) and try again. It’s part of the learning process.
• Take Breaks: Knitting can be repetitive, so take breaks as needed to avoid hand strain.
• Watch Video Tutorials: Watching videos can be very helpful for visual learners. There are numerous excellent knitting tutorials available online.
• Use Quality Yarn: If it’s possible for you, invest in good quality yarn. It is much easier to work with, and has a better finished result.
• Check Your Gauge: Before you begin your project, it is a good idea to knit a gauge swatch and check to see how many stitches you are knitting per inch. This will enable you to achieve your desired length and width accurately.

Variations and Customizations

Once you have mastered the basic garter stitch infinity scarf, feel free to experiment with these variations:

• Different Stitches: Try using different stitch patterns, such as the rib stitch (alternating knit and purl stitches) or the seed stitch, to add texture to your scarf.
• Yarn Variety: Experiment with different yarn weights, colors, and textures to create unique looks.
• Stripes: Incorporate stripes by changing yarn colors every few rows or rounds.
• Lace Patterns: For more advanced knitters, try incorporating lace patterns for an elegant touch.
• Width and Length: Adjust the number of cast-on stitches and the length of the scarf to create a scarf of your desired size.
• Adding Fringe or Tassels: Once you have bound off, add fringes or tassels to the ends for extra decorative flair.

Conclusion

Knitting an infinity scarf is a fantastic project for knitters of all levels. It’s a great way to practice the knit stitch, create a beautiful and practical accessory, and enjoy the relaxing process of knitting. With these detailed instructions, you’re now equipped to make your very own unique and cozy infinity scarf. Happy Knitting!