How to Crochet a Scarf

How to Crochet a Scarf

Learning how to crochet a scarf is an excellent beginner-friendly project for anyone who is developing the crochet skill. Mastering how to crochet allows you to create stunning projects with just your crochet hook and some yarn. No fabric needed! 

Image source: Burgundy and Blush

Crochet scarves can range in complexity, from a basic single stitch pattern to granny square scarves to fancifully designed crochet patterns. In this article, we will cover how to crochet a scarf for beginners in multiple ways. Continue reading to learn:

• • How to crochet a single crochet scarf
  • How to crochet a granny square scarf, including suggestions for customization
  • How to crochet a striped infinity scarf

You can find many easy crochet scarf patterns online and follow them, but many won’t give exact size specifications. If you’re ever left unsure how large to make your crochet scarves, you can refer to the table below to guide you.

Dimension	Suggested Dimensions
Width	Skinny scarves: 4 inches Traditional scarves: 8 inches Blanket scarves: 12+ inches
Length	60 to 72 inches
Fringe length	4 to 6 inches

How to Crochet a Single Stitch Scarf

Infinite crochet scarf patterns are available online, which makes it easy to get overwhelmed. Beginners should start with the absolute most basic way to learn how to make a scarf in crochet: the single crochet scarf.

Image source: All Free Crochet

The single crochet stitch scarf only requires you to know the following crochet techniques:

• • Slip knot
  • Chain stitch
  • Single crochet
  • Weaving in ends

Image source: Sarah Maker

Yes, it’s really that simple! To master how to start a crochet scarf, you only need your crochet hook and yarn. You will also need a yarn needle to finish off the scarf. 

If you’re ready to practice how to crochet a scarf step by step, follow along with the instructions and images below.

1. 1. Create a slip stitch.
   2. Work 15 chain stitches loosely.
   3. Start row one by working your first single crochet stitch into the second chain stitch away from the hook. 
   4. Continue row one by working one single crochet stitch into a chain stitch until you reach the end of the row.
   5. Move between rows by working a single turning chain.
   6. Work row two by working a single crochet into the same space as the join, and work one single crochet stitch into each stitch across the row.
   7. Repeat step six until the scarf reaches your desired length.
   8. Finish the scarf by leaving 15 centimeters of yarn tail and weave in the ends using your yarn needle.

Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to crochet a scarf for the complete beginner. If you’re a more visual learner, be sure to check out tutorial videos that cover how to crochet a neck scarf.

The best part of this crochet scarf method is that it can be done with any basic crochet stitch for a very different finished effect. The image below is an example of the same scarf technique with a triple crochet stitch.

Image source: Rangaro

If you choose to switch it up with a different stitch, make sure that you are adjusting the length of your turning chains. Different crochet stitches have different heights, and therefore require adjusted turning chain lengths. Refer to the turning chain table below if you have any doubts.

Crochet Stitch	Number of Turning Chains
Single crochet stitch	1
Half double crochet stitch	2
Double crochet stitch	3
Triple crochet stitch	4

How to Crochet a Granny Square Scarf

If you’re looking for more methods for how to crochet a scarf with easy instructions, the granny square method is an excellent next step. If you’re comfortable making granny squares, they can be made quickly and joined together later.

Image source: Annie Design Crochet

Before you can learn how do you crochet a scarf step by step with granny squares, you will need to possess the following crochet skills: 

• • Slip stitch
  • Chain stitch
  • Double crochet
  • Weaving in ends
  • Classic granny square 
  • Magic ring (optional)

The first step is to crochet 14 classic granny squares, with color changes in every round. This will create the whimsical, colorful effect you see in the image above.

When you have created all of your granny squares, you are ready to put them together and add your finishing touches.

1. 1. Whip stitch (or otherwise join) the granny squares together to form a long strip.
   2. If you prefer, add a simple crochet border around the scarf edges. A very simple crab stitch border can be worked in only two rows: one row of single crochet stitch (all around) and one row of crab stitch.
   3. As an additional optional step, you can add some fringe to the bottom of your scarf.

Adding fringe to any crochet project is quite simple. Cut yarn the length of your desired fringe length. Then you can follow the steps below to attach your yarn fringe to the finished scarf.

1. 1. Insert your hook into the first stitch to be fringed. Place one or two pieces of the cut yarn onto the hook.

Image source: Easy Crochet

      2. Pull the yarn through the stitch.

Image source: Easy Crochet

      3. Yarn over and pull through to tighten.

Image source: Easy Crochet

Feel free to continue customizing your granny square scarves with different borders, joining techniques, and finishing touches. This technique also allows for beginner-friendly crochet blankets.

If you plan on selling your granny square crochet items, consider adding a custom care label and hang tag so that your customers can take proper care of them and remember where to purchase next!

How to Crochet a Striped Infinity Scarf

Image source: Crochet

How do you crochet a scarf for beginners? Try out this chic crochet infinity scarf pattern that is surprisingly beginner-friendly.

The double crochet used in this infinity scarf pattern makes this a quick project. The color-blocked stripe effect is created by changing colors between rows. No need for any decreasing, but you will need to learn a stitch to seam the two ends together.

1. 1. With your main color, chain stitch 55 and slip stitch to join. You will be working in the round.
   2. With your first color, chain three and then double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   3. With your main color, chain three and double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   4. Repeat steps two and three until you’ve worked 43 rounds in total.
   5. With your second color, chain three and double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   6. With your main color, chain three and double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for rounds 46 through 87.
   8. With your third color, chain three and double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   9. With your main color, chain three and double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 for rounds 90 to 131.
   11. With color four, chain three, and double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   12. With your main color, chain three and double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   13. Repeat steps 11 and 12 for rounds 134 to 175.
   14. For your last round, use color four to chain three and double crochet to the end of the round. Slip stitch to join.
   15. Finish either the whip stitch or the mattress stitch to seam together the scarf ends.
   16. Weave in your ends to secure the yarn.

Image source: Pippin Poppycock

You should be able to see that the majority of the pattern consists of the same step, repeated with different colors. These infinity scarves are functional and fashionable and would make a great gift with the addition of a personalized woven label. 

Frequently asked questions

What type of yarn should I use for crocheting a simple scarf pattern?

The choice of yarn depends on the desired look and feel of your scarf. For a cozy crochet scarf and chunky scarf, you can opt for chunky yarn or worsted weight yarn. Chunky yarn creates a thicker and warmer scarf, while worsted weight yarn offers a balance between warmth and drape.

Both options work well for simple scarf patterns and are widely available in various colors and materials. Remember to check the recommended gauge and hook size mentioned in the pattern to ensure the best results.

Where I can find free crochet patterns for scarves?

Yes! There are numerous websites and online communities that offer a wide range of free crochet pattern bundles for scarves. Some popular platforms include Ravelry, Pinterest, Crochet.com, AllFreeCrochet, and yarn manufacturer websites.

These websites often have user-contributed patterns with detailed instructions, making it easy to find a pattern that suits your style and skill level.

How many chains do you need for a scarf?

To create a scarf, it’s essential to begin by crocheting a lengthy initial chain consisting of 224 chain stitches.

Is it better to knit or crochet a scarf?

Compared to knitting, crochet produces a fabric that is denser and exhibits more texture. As a result, crochet is ideal for crafting sturdy items such as hats or accessories, while knitting lends itself well to creating delicate pieces like soft sweaters and scarves.