This free bias garter scarf free pattern is a simple rhythmic project that gives gorgeous results! This scarf lays beautifully flat without any curling and has a soft bumpy texture with a unique angled yarn color changes.
Want to knit on the go? Scroll to the bottom of this post to download the clean, ad-free printable PDF pattern to tuck right into your project bag!
What is a Bias Garter Scarf?
If you’ve never knit on the bias before, don’t worry! It sounds technical, but it is incredibly simple. By placing an increase on one edge and a decrease on the other edge of the exact same row, you keep the same number of stitches on your needles, but the entire piece shifts at a beautiful diagonal angle.
If you are just learning to knit, here is a helpful post with tips: How To Knit a Scarf for Beginners
Yarn Details & Materials
Yarn: I’ve used one skein of Lion Brand Mandala Tweed Stripes yarn in color way #201 Lady Bug. This is the same yarn I used to make my One Skein Crochet Scarf. Similar yarns that you could use are any of the Lion Brand Mandala Yarns, Lion Brand Mandala Ombre Yarns or Lion Brand Mandala Gradient Yarns
Needles: You will need a size 7 or 4.5mm straight knitting needles
Free Bias Garter Scarf Pattern Instructions
Techniques used: Casting off, KFB= Increase by knitting in front and back of stitch, K2tog = Knit two stitches together and binding off.
Gauge is not critical for this project, as you can simply knit until your scarf reaches your desired length!
Start by casting on one stitch
In my previous post- I’ve elaborated step by how to knit a diagonal rectangle, This is the same technique we will be using in today’s pattern. Your scarf will have an increase/ middle/ decrease area.
INCREASE: Repeat this row: KFB in first stitch, knit to end of row. Repeat till you have 40 stitches on your needle or (or until the scarf reaches your preferred width). My scarf measured 6 inches when I stopped my increase.
MIDDLE: Repeat these two rows:
- Row 1: KFB in first stitch, knit to last two stitches, K2tog.
- Row 2: Knit
Repeat these two rows to grow your scarf in length. I worked till the scarf approximately measured 90 inches
As you see in the photo I’ve used a circular knitting needle. You DO NOT need a circular needle for this project at all, any small size straight knitting needle will work. Since I was working on this scarf on our road trip, I chose to use circular needles so that I wouldn’t loose a needle in my car seat. I’ve lost a crochet hook or knitting needle under/ in between / or in my knitting bag itself so many times!
DECREASE: Repeat this row: K2tog, knit to end of row. Repeat this row till you have one stitch left on your needle, bind off and weave in ends.
BLOG HOP:
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Download the Free Printable PDF Pattern
Download Here: Free Printable PDF Pattern
NOTES:
- This technique looks stunning with solid colors, but it absolutely shines with variegated, cake, or hand-dyed yarns because the color transitions flow diagonally.
- Bias garter stitch has a unique, bouncy stretch that drapes beautifully around your neck without feeling stiff at all.
- This entire pattern is knit flat using only the knit stitch. It’s perfect for beginner knitters or anyone looking for a “craft to calm” evening.
Happy knitting! If you make this bias garter scarf, be sure to share a photo and tag me—I love seeing the beautiful yarn colors you choose.
