17. The Diamond Brocade Relief Scarf
Introduction
A sophisticated textured scarf using alternating knit and purl patterns to render raised diamond geometries across the surface.
What This Idea Means
Understated luxury. It gives the appearance of intricate weaving or quilting while using only fundamental stitches.
How to Make It
- Yarn & Needles: Crisp worsted weight wool with high stitch definition on 4.5 mm (US 7) needles.
- Cast On: Multiple of 8 stitches plus 2 edge stitches (e.g., 42 stitches).
- Pattern: Follow an 8-row diamond brocade grid chart based on expanding and contracting purl stitches against a stockinette field.
- Edge Finish: Add a 3-stitch garter border on both sides to prevent lateral edge curl.
Tips and Variations
- Solid, non-fuzzy yarns in cream, sage, or navy show the geometric pattern best.
- Steam block lightly to enhance pattern clarity without crushing stitch height.