How to Crochet a Multi-Coloured Scarf?

A multi-coloured crochet scarf is a fun project. It is also a good project for a beginner since it is a great “practice project” with a crochet hook and yarn in your collection.  Even experienced crocheters like to make them since they are fast.  A scarf makes a great gift for a friend or yourself.  There are a million and one uses for the right scarf.  They are useful in cool weather as a protection against winter winds. A beautiful scarf can turn an ordinary outfit into an extraordinary ensemble. And, above all it is a beautiful gift for a loved one. People of all ages and sizes use and appreciate scarves – especially handmade ones.  In this blog, we’ll take you through easy steps to make a coloured scarf with basic crochet stitches.

Pattern: A pattern is the “map” of your project. You can choose one from Ravelry or one from your favourite designer or design your own. When planning your project, you need measurements and you need to know the stitches you want to use. Some crochet stitches are better suited to scarves than others single crochet (sc) or double crochet (dc) make a close dense fabric that is perfect for cold winters, while lacy stitches (treble stitch) – often done on lighter-weight yarn – result in an open or more elegant look. 

Yarn – For a normal length scarf, about 250 yards of worsted-weight yarn should be sufficient. You can buy it from your local knitting store or leftover yarns, you may wish to use that. A medium-thick yarn, such as worsted weight, is ideal for warmer scarves.

Crochet hook – For your scarf project you can choose single-ended crochet hooks in 6.5 mm (US K/10.5) or 8.0mm (L/11) sizes, depending on how loose or tight you crochet, whatever size feels comfortable. It is always better to crochet a swatch first to see if you need to go one size up or down on the size.

Crochet Scarf Sizes

There’s no hard-and-fast rule for the width and length of a scarf.  As a rule, traditional scarves measure at least 20 cm (8″) wide but you can easily go up to 40 cm (15″). On average, scarf lengths range from 60″ to 72″ long.  If you make a scarf much longer than 72”, you (or the wearer) will be able to wrap it around the neck more than once for an extra cozy effect.   To make the scarf longer or shorter simply crochet more or less rows.

The number of chain stitches you need for the first row depends on the width of the scarf.  For example, if you are crocheting with worsted weight yarn, you may have a gauge of 3- 4 stitches per inch. If you want your scarf to be 8″ wide, you’ll want to start with a chain of 24 to 32 stitches, plus your turning chain stitch.

Crocheting with Colour

Multicoloured yarns are the easiest way to make your scarf project vibrant. Variegated yarns, self-striping yarns and hand-dyed shades pop with colours. Basically, the yarn does all the work - you simply crochet.

Using different colour yarns

Of course, you can always use an assortment of colors. This is a great way to use up left over yarn. You decide when and where to change the colour.

Here is the basic method for changing colour in crochet.  Stop crocheting right before you pull through the last two loops on the crochet hook. Drop the old colour. Put the new yarn colour on the hook and pull the new colour through the last two loops.  This can be done at the end of the row, or if the colours work well together, you can do it mid-row for an interesting effect.

For an easy multicoloured scarf, here is an easy pattern, using 5 colours of yarn (A, B, C, D,E), a 5mm hook and double crochet stitches.

Step 1: Make a slip knot.

Step 2: Using Yarn A, chain between 24 and 32 stitches – depending on your gauge.

Step 3: Using the double crochet (dc) stitch, work 7 - 10 rows in colour A, then switch to colour B and then proceed another 7 - 10 rows with Yarn B, 10 rows Yarn C, 10 rows Yarn D, 10 rows Yarn E, 10 rows Yarn B, 10 rows Yarn A, 10 rows Yarn D, 10 rows Yarn E.

Step 4: If the length is to your liking, bind off. If not, continue crocheting following the colour sequence established.   Using a wool needle, weave in the ends.

Finishing the Scarf

Here are some suggestions for added interest:

Add Pom poms: Sew a variety of colourful poms to the bottom and top rows for an interesting edging.

Add Fringes: Decorate the top and bottom edges with fluffy fringes. Consult online tutorials to discover how to make the fringe you like best. 

Note: The most important thing is to have fun with this project. So why not get artsy right away and design your own multicoloured crochet scarf.