The Design

“Silky stripes.”

This simple, lightweight knit square mimics 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 our Pretty Perfect Square, we chose to knit two-color, three-row stripes in Madelinetosh a Tosh Silk Cloud. With a lovely luster and subtle halo, Tosh Silk Cloud is a lace-weight mohair blend with a core of silk (a significant 40%!). This floaty fiber creates a smooth fabric and takes dye beautifully—perfect for playing with stripes!

The Details

FINISHED SIZES
This scarf can be made in any size you like. Our two-color even stripe sample measures approx. 24"/61 cm square, after blocking.

YARN
1 skein each of two colors Madelinetosh Tosh Silk Cloud (330 yds/300m each); or equivalent amounts of lace-weight mohair yarn.

NEEDLES & NOTIONS
US 3 (3.25mm) circular needle (to knit off both ends), or size to get 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.