19 Crochet Scarf Pattern that are Free!
Crocheting a scarf is a great first project for beginning crocheters. Here are 19 free crochet scarf patterns that work for total beginners, to more experienced crocheters.
Why is a scarf a fabulous first crochet project? Because it’s a rectangle, which is one of the easiest shapes to crochet!
Depending on the complexity of the pattern, a crochet scarf is a great way for newer crocheters to learn new stitches and techniques, since usually there’s little shaping.
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What do you need to crochet a scarf?
Yarn, a variety of yarn weights and fibers work well for crocheting a scarf.
Crochet hook to match your chosen yarn.
#4 medium worsted weight yarn is a popular choice, and pairs well with a 5mm hook.
Your crochet pattern will have a section titled Materials, or Supplies that will tell you what yarn was used in the sample and with which hook.
What yarn should I use to crochet a scarf?
Acrylic yarn is affordable and comes in an array of colors.
However, if you’re looking to crochet a light and lacy summer scarf, then going with cotton yarn make be a great choice.
If you want to crochet a cozy, chunky scarf for fall or winter, then consider wool for warmth. Or possibly a wool blend which often melds the best of both worlds because it’s warm, but also washable (check your yarn label) to be sure on how to care for your handmade scarf.
For one skein summer scarf, I love Lion Brand’s 24/7 cotton. The cotton is mercerized, so it’s strong. It has a beautiful sheen and comes in some lovely colors.
To crochet a quick scarf use a #5-#7 weight yarn, like Scarfie Yarn. This chunky #5 yarn is made just for crocheting (or knitting) a scarf! These are great because you know you have just the right amount of yarn to make a scarf. I really love how the color changes work in these yarns. And bonus, it’s a wool blend so it’s very warm.
So really there are a wide variety of yarns that will work, it just depends on the type of scarf you want to crochet!
How much yarn do I need?
Again this depends on your pattern. You will need more #4 medium yarn than you will need of a #6 super bulky yarn.
You might need roughly 350-550 yards of a #4 medium worsted weight yarn to make a good size scarf. To make a similar size scarf in #6 super bulky yarn you may only need 250-400 yards.
There is no easy answer, it really depends on too many factors! Check your pattern instructions for the best information.
So how big should a scarf be?
Like crochet blankets, there’s really no set width and length for a scarf. The crochet scarf patterns in this list range from 4″ to 8″ wide. For light and lacy a skinny 4″ to 6″ scarf is perfect, for cozy and warm 6″ to 8″ works well.
The length of a scarf can vary also. At least 54″ to 60″ is a good minimum length. This allows most individuals to wrap it once around the neck and have some length on both sides.
There are plenty of longer scarf patterns of 70″ to 100″ long. Scarfs this long will allow the wearer more options for tying or looping the scarf. These may also include fringe in those lengths.
You crochet pattern will include sizing information, so check the details first.
What’s the best stitch to crochet a scarf?
Like the weight of your yarn, it depends on the look and drape you want in your scarf. For an open, lacy scarf you can use the v-stitch, large mesh (which is a double crochets and chains to form an open mesh like fabric), or filet crochet which is similar to the mesh. In crochet mesh, you work a double crochet into a double crochet. For filet crochet, you work double crochets into the chain spaces.
If you want to crochet a cozy super bulky scarf then you want to choose stitches that are closer together, to form a warmer fabric. These are great for the “regular” crochet stitches: single crochet, half double crochet and double crochet.
More stitch patterns that make great warm scarves are lemon peel stitch, the wattle stitch, or the trinity stitch are a few of my favorites.
To Fringe or Not to Fringe?
Fringe seems to be one of those polarizing features. Either we love it or hate it.
The best part about making your own accessories is that you get to choose! If you want to know how, I have a step by step tutorial on how to add fringe to your crochet (or knit) scarf.
19 Crochet Scarf Patterns that are Free!
Crochet scarf patterns for free in a variety of styles and yarn weights. These crochet scarf pattern makes excellent gifts for women, or men.
From worsted weight scarf patterns to super bulky (and super quick) scarf patterns these free crochet patterns have something for everyone on your to make list.
The Iseo is an easy crochet scarf pattern featuring Furls Wander Palette Pack yarn. This scarf design mixes blocks of color and simple stitches for a stunning and cozy scarf!
The Liguria Scarf is a simple scarf that works with just one skein of yarn. This easy pattern combines basic stitches in a gorgeous design.
The Merletto Scarf is a light and open skinny scarf pattern. This little scarf adds a pop of color to your wardrobe without weighing you down.
The open lace stitch is easy to crochet. It’s a version of the v-stitch, very beginner friendly.
I chose to add fringe to the ends of the scarf, but that is optional so you can leave it off, if you prefer.
Learn how to crochet a simple single crochet scarf. This total beginner pattern is an easy first project for new crocheters.
I love using simple techniques to crochet beautiful things. This easy scarf features the basic single crochet stitch, which makes a great scarf. It’s nice and tight so the scarf will be warm.
Plus the single crochet works great for men’s accessories. Since I’m using a print yarn that changes colors, using a simple stitch works best.
The scarf is totally beginner friendly. You only need to know how to chain, single crochet and finish off.
The beauty of stripes and crochet texture come together in the Verso Scarf, a free textured crochet scarf pattern with men in mind.
The Verso Scarf is an easy crochet pattern that’s beginner friendly. Any level crocheter can crochet this simple scarf pattern.
This striped and textured crochet scarf pattern is perfect for men. However, this beautiful crochet scarf works for women too.
The Retta Crochet Infinity Cowl is long and lacy. This easy crochet pattern can be fashioned into a summer scarf or cowl.
Just one skein of yarn creates this lovely crochet cowl pattern. Step by step photo tutorial is included for any level crocheter.
The beginner friendly crochet mesh used in the Retta Cowl is a simple one row repeat. Which makes this crochet infinity cowl pattern a relaxing project, while also watching tv or even listening to a book.
The Berryessa Scarf is a light crochet lacy scarf, perfect as a stylish summer accessory. The easy, open stitch pattern of this skinny scarf is fun to work and creates a beautiful accessory for those warmer days.
Crocheted with simple stitches and just one ball of yarn, the Berryessa Scarf makes for a fast gift.
Crochet the Tuscan Scarf with just one skein of fingering weight yarn. Designed solely with single crochet stitches, this easy crochet scarf showcases the colors of that special hand dyed yarn.
The Tuscan Scarf is lightweight and simple to style. Use the long end secure the scarf in a loose knot to keep it in place on your neck. Or wrap it and tuck the tail in. This design is easy to crochet and easy to wear.
The Nebbia Chunky Crochet Scarf is the softest and coziest! Simple stitches paired with Red Heart’s Dreamy yarn create this lovely draping scarf.
This chunky scarf is long enough to double wrap. Or if you prefer to, style it as a cowl.
This chunky yarn has a brushed halo look and it is truly dreamy, as implied by the name. This yarn is a #5 bulky weight yarn.
The Alza Scarf is an easy crochet scarf pattern that’s squishy, warm and gorgeous. Just one skein of Scarfie yarn is all you need to crochet this cozy scarf.
As the name implies, Scarfie yarn is excellent for crocheting the perfect length scarf. The subtle color changes make for an interest and easy colorful scarf that isn’t too busy. Scarfie is a #5 bulky weight yarn.
This beginner friendly crochet scarf pattern uses simple stitches. The two row repeat is easy to remember for a relaxing crochet project.
The Ambra Triangle Scarf is a one skein crochet pattern. This lovely and light crochet scarf works up with a combination of the classic granny stitch and the pineapple puff stitch.
The free crochet scarf pattern includes an easy repeat. So it’s simple to create a full size shawl also.
The Matteo is a highly textured crochet scarf pattern. This free scarf pattern is perfect to crochet in neutrals, or single color yarn, as the interest comes with the textured stitch.
The Matteo scarf is a suitable crochet scarf for men or women. It’s a versatile pattern.
All this texture comes from the post stitches in the pattern. This scarf crochets up beautifully in #4 medium worsted weight yarn.
The Rossi Crochet Scarf is an elegant single crochet scarf. The tonal red circles are enough to give this scarf a Valentine’s Day or Christmas feel without going over the top.
This crochet scarf pattern works beautifully for men and women alike. Crochet a scarf that can be worn for a holiday and the rest of the chilly months too.
The Tuono Scarf is a cozy super scarf pattern. It works up super quick, as it’s crocheted with #7 jumbo yarn and a 15mm hook.
This Color Cloud yarn from Lion Brand was really fun to work with and it really does feel as soft as a cloud (I imagine). I love their color ways, as it has enough variation to add interest without weaving in extra ends.
The Dakota Hat crochet pattern pops in contrasting colors. This crochet textures stunning in bold colors. The Dakota Hat and crochet scarf pattern set is sure to please the whole family.
Red Heart with Love has so many gorgeous color options. Deciding on which color combination may be the hardest part.
The Skinny Summer Scarf crochet pattern is lightweight and lacy. It’s just perfect for anytime of year, it will be your new favorite piece.
This scarf is simply made, with double crochets and chains to create the open, easy crochet lace. The best part is this is a one skein crochet scarf.
Lion Brand’s 24/7 cotton yarn has just the right amount of yarn for a one skein scarf and it comes in all the colors! These make great gifts.
The Canyon Scarf is a classic granny triangle pattern. This top down scarf pattern is an easy and relaxing crochet project.
The simple stitches allows a bright and colorful yarn to shine. Add the tassels for a finished and polished look.
This granny triangle scarf is an easy, beginner friendly crochet pattern. I love how simple stitches pair with colorful yarns for a beautiful result.
Crochet the Veneto Scarf in super bulky yarn for a quick but cozy make! This crochet pattern works up beautifully in this print yarn.
The best part of my Veneto Fringed Scarf is that it keeps my neck warm! Just wearing a scarf seems to keep me the right temperature, without having to add all those extra layers-at least this time of year. A neutral accessory is the best and most loved in my wardrobe.
The Blueberry Lemonade Cowl crochets up gorgeous in variegated cottons for an all weather infinity cowl. Change up your yarn for a wool and you’ll be ready for cold weather too.
This crochet pattern is worked like a scarf, so you’ll have the option to leave it long and style like a scarf, or seam up the ends to create the infinity style cowl.
