The Design

“Lambswool, alpaca and beads... oh my!”

When Karen brought the beginnings of this scarf to our design team, we all agreed the little beads looked like raindrops. Once the scarf is on, the beads almost look like they're chasing each other around, even while they add a bit of weight to the soft drape of this lace-weight scarf. Do you know the A. A. Milne poem, Waiting at the Window? It reads in part: "These are my two drops of rain / Waiting on the window-pane. I am waiting here to see / Which the winning one will be... All the best and all the worst / Comes from which of them is first." A whimsical poem for a sweet accessory!

Isager Alpaca 2 is a knitter’s favorite all year ‘round, but as the air gets chillier it’s even more tempting to use for a slightly cushier version of the Racing Raindrops scarf. The alpaca adds drape and a soft halo, and the wool offers memory and structure for lovely stitch definition. We love Alpaca 2 for its softness next to the skin. Make your neck happy and a wee bit warmer–try an Isager version!

We offer this pattern in two sizes. They both have the same wingspan, but the larger scarf has a slightly longer back depth that adds more fullness. Once blocked, both scarves can be worn multiple ways, with long ties to knot, drape, or to pin. And both sizes have 120 sparkling raindrops!

The Details

FINISHED SIZE
Approx. 76"/193cm across long straight edge; approx. 10 (18)"/25 (46)cm deep at the center, after blocking. Larger size shown. (The only difference between sizes is the back depth.)

YARN
Smaller scarf (not shown): 2 skeins Isager Alpaca 2 (270 yds/247m each).
Larger scarf: 3 skeins Isager Alpaca 2 (270 yds/247m each).

Shown in Color E2s Natural Light Gray Undyed.

NEEDLES & NOTIONS
US 4 (3.5mm) needles, or size to obtain gauge.
Approx. 130 size 6 seed beads (this allows for a few extras).
US 13/14 (0.9mm) steel crochet hook for placing beads.
1 locking stitch marker. Darning needle to finish.

GAUGE
Approx. 22 sts = 4"/10cm in texture pattern, before blocking.
Approx. 28 sts = 4"/10cm in texture pattern, after blocking.
Note: As you block texture ridges open, your stitch gauge will draw in.

KNITTER'S NOTES
We think you'll enjoy the easy-to-memorize texture repeat and the simple sideways construction.

Don't be intimidated by placing beads in your knitting! We have a photo tutorial on our Ravelry group that walks you through the easy steps for placing beads. You'll love the results.