Cabled Alpaca Scarf


 
Cabled Alpaca Scarf

Size:
Adult

Measurements:
My scarf was over 62" length (!) and about 7.5" wide

Materials:
Less than 3 skeins of Plymouth Indiecita 100% Peruvian  Alpaca, Worsted 4-Ply 100 gms (no yardage given on ball band) though the ball band states "worsted" it is more of
light worsted or sport weight; less expensive Lion Brand AL PA KA would be an adequate substitute
straight needles to get gauge (I used US size 3 bamboo)

Gauge:
not crucial; somewhere in the ball park of 8 pattern repeats = 7.0" to 7.5" inches.

Cable Pattern (multiple of 8 sts plus 2 extra)

Row 1 (RS):  P2, *k6, p2; rep from *
Row 2 and all WS rows: K the k sts and p the p sts
Row 3: P2, *sl 3 sts to cable needle and hold to back of work, k3, k3 from cable needle, p2; rep from *.
Rows 5 and 7:  Rep row 1
Row 8:  Rep row 2.
Rep rows 1-8 for cable pattern

Pattern:
 

Cast on 66 stitches.
Establish Cable Pattern as above.
Work to desired length.
Bind off.
Add fringe or tassels if desired.

Comments:
After establishing the first "cable twist" on the third row, I added 2 or 3 more rows in between the next cable twist than the pattern calls for; this loosens up the cable a bit and gives the fabric a bit more drape.  You can play with the number of rows in between "twists" to see what works for you.  Also, I did not find it necessary to add fringe or tassels to the scarf; but of course you may do so if you wish.  I really think this pattern works well in alpaca; of course you can experiment with different weights of yarn and fibers, but I think that the bulkier the yarn, the
bulkier the cable and the less comfortable to wear snugly around the neck.

The pattern is quite easy and is suitable for "advanced beginners"; I found it can be done while watching T.V. or chatting on the phone.  IMHO, this scarf is quite warm and attractive, despite its non-reversible pattern.


Copyright 2000 J. Campbell. E-mail: jcampbell@ij.net

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