Country Rose Neck Kerchief

This pattern is my submission for the crochet blog contest by elisabethandree. The challenge was to use one of these stitch patterns to crochet an original design. Inspired by the cravats of the late 1700s and early 1800s, I decided to crochet a neck kerchief for the “adult shawl or scarf” category. I thought a kerchief would be a bit of a unique take on the scarf category, as well as being quick to crochet. The final kerchief turned out more Western than Colonial, but I’m very happy with the result.

I used stitch variation #1, a simple combination of single crochet and chains. It’s a very easy pattern, but it gives the fabric enough texture and polish to make a sophisticated wearable. I crocheted my scarf with Knit Picks “Comfy Fingering” (color peony), a soft cotton blend with a subtle sheen. Crocheted on a G (4.25mm) hook, it makes a comfortable fabric with great drape and just enough definition to hold the stitch. I’m extremely pleased with the result and would definitely use this yarn and stitch combination for other projects.

This pattern is incredibly flexible and could be made with almost any yarn. There is no specific gauge; since you start at the point, you can simply work a few rows and see if the fabric suits you. I think I might try it in bulky yarn for a winter wearable. This pattern would also make for a great hair kerchief, or, as shown by my obliging cat, a scarf for a pet. ;)

Here’s the basic pattern:

Row 1: ch 3, (sc, ch 1, sc) in 3rd ch from hook. Turn. [2 sc]
Row 2: ch 2, sc in 1st sc, ch 1, sc in ch-1 sp, ch 1, sc in top of turning ch of previous row. Turn. [3 sc]
Row 3: ch 2, sc in 1st sc, ch 1, *sc in ch-1 sp, ch 1. Rep from * across row. Sc in top of turning ch of previous row. [4 sc] Turn.

Repeat Row 3 until kerchief ties comfortably around your neck, or desired width. I went until my kerchief was about 27” wide, or approx. 86 rows total. I used about 260 yards of fingering weight.

For optional picot edging: Do not turn at the end of last row. Sl st into side. *ch 3, sl st into space along side. Rep from * along side, around point, and up second side. Leave top edge plain. Fasten off and weave in ends. You can adjust the look of your edging by changing the number of chs, or using a different edging entirely.

I’d love to know what you think! Be sure to check out the other great entries in the contest!