The Design

“Light-as-air stripes.”

This simple, lightweight knit square knits the shape and scale of a classic silk scarf. I-cord edgings and bind-off details create the look of a hand-rolled hem. This pattern is more of a ‘recipe,’ really, with details given for three variations and tips on how to create your own.

For this version of the Pretty Perfect Square, we chose to knit two-color, three-row stripes in Catherine Lowe’s Silk Mohair 1. A lace-weight blend of 60% super kid mohair and 40% mulberry silk, this yarn knits up into a fabric of stunning grace and integrity. With several exquisite colors, we have Catherine’s assurance from her Italian dye house that the colors won’t run—perfect for playing with stripes!

The Details

FINISHED SIZE SHOWN
This scarf can be made in any size you like. Our 2-color, 3 row striped sample measures approx. 30"/76cm square, after blocking.

YARN
1 skein each of Catherine Lowe Silk Mohair 1 (400 yds/365m each) in two colors; Sample shown in Color A = Vintage, B = Night.
Or equivalent amounts of lace-weight mohair yarn in two colors.

NEEDLES & NOTIONS
US 3 (3.25mm) circular needle (to knit off both ends), or size to obtain gauge.
US G/6 (4mm) crochet hook for provisional cast-on.
Smooth fine yarn (knotting cord or Perle Cotton work well) for provisional cast-on.
Locking marker. Fine blunt darning needle to finish.
Fine gauge blocking wires and T-pins; or lots of fork blocking pins.

GAUGE
24 sts = 4"/10cm in stockinette stitch, after blocking. Row gauge determined from swatch.

KNITTER'S NOTES
Don't skip the swatching on this one! Though it's a simple stockinette square, swatching will give you an opportunity to practice techniques, make sure you love your fabric and calculate how many rows you'll need to get a perfect square. You will also be able to play with colors and striping sequences, so you're sure to love your finished product. We've provided details for the samples shown, but have also given you a basic recipe to follow so that you can create your own unique variations.