Knitting the Basket Weave Scarf: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Updated at: 31/05/2025

The basket weave stitch is a classic knitting pattern, known for its beautiful texture and surprisingly simple construction. Its visual appeal, reminiscent of tightly woven wicker, makes it perfect for scarves, blankets, and even sweaters. This timeless stitch is deceptively easy to master, offering a rewarding project for both beginner and experienced knitters alike. The raised ridges create a delightful warmth and a satisfyingly tactile experience, making a basket weave scarf a cherished addition to any winter wardrobe.

This tutorial will guide you through the process of knitting a beautiful basket weave scarf, step-by-step. Whether you're a seasoned knitter looking for a new project or a complete novice eager to learn a new technique, get ready to discover the joy of creating this elegant and cozy accessory. Prepare your needles and yarn, and let's begin!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Circular knitting needles (29 inches or longer recommended)
  • Super Saver Ombre yarn
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors to cut yarn ends to prevent snags and ensure a clean finish. Avoid using dull scissors which can cause fraying.
  • Always check your gauge before starting the project to ensure your finished scarf will be the desired size. Incorrect gauge can significantly alter the final dimensions.
  • Be mindful of your tension throughout the knitting process. Consistent tension is crucial for achieving an even and attractive basket weave pattern. Inconsistent tension can lead to a distorted pattern.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Download the free pattern from redheart.com.
    • Gather your supplies (knitting needles and yarn).
    Gather your supplies (knitting needles and yarn).
    Preparation

  2. Casting On

    • Cast on 40 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method (or your preferred method).

  3. Establishing the Basketweave Pattern

    • Knit the first three stitches. Then repeat the pattern: Purl 2, Knit 2, until the end of the row. Knit the last stitch.
    • Purl the first three stitches. Then repeat the pattern: Knit 2, Purl 2, until the end of the row. Purl the last stitch.
    Row 2: Purl the first three stitches. Then repeat the pattern: Knit 2, Purl 2, until the end of the row. Purl the last stitch.
    Establishing the Basketweave Pattern

  4. Repeating the Pattern

    • Repeat Rows 1-2 until the scarf reaches the desired length.
    • Same pattern as Row 1.
    • Same pattern as Row 2.
    Rows 4, 6, 8, 10, 12: Same pattern as Row 2.Rows 4, 6, 8, 10, 12: Same pattern as Row 2.
    Repeating the Pattern

  5. Binding Off

    • Bind off in pattern. Since the pattern starts with three knits, bind off by knitting two stitches together, then purling two stitches together, etc., following the pattern.
    Bind off in pattern. Since the pattern starts with three knits, bind off by knitting two stitches together, then purling two stitches together, etc., following the pattern.
    Binding Off

  6. Finishing Touches

    • Weave in the ends.
    • Wet block the scarf to relax the fibers and even out the stitch pattern.
    Wet block the scarf to relax the fibers and even out the stitch pattern.
    Finishing Touches

Read more: Knitting a Reversible Basketweave Blanket: A Customizable Guide

Tips

  • Use a row counter (app or physical) to keep track of rows, especially in the beginning.
  • Don't be discouraged by messy-looking first rows. The stitches will even out as you continue.
  • Learn to identify knit and purl stitches easily to avoid mistakes when picking up a project after a break.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Varying tightness of stitches throughout the scarf leads to an uneven and unprofessional look.
Solution: Practice maintaining a consistent tension throughout the knitting process by using a tension gauge or knitting swatch.

2. Incorrectly Counting Rows/Stitches

Reason: Losing track of rows or stitches can result in the pattern being skewed, and the scarf becoming disproportionate or incomplete.
Solution: Use stitch markers to help keep track of rows or stitches and double-check your count regularly.

3. Dropping Stitches

Reason: Dropped stitches create holes or gaps in the fabric which is especially noticeable with a structured pattern like basketweave.
Solution: Carefully pick up dropped stitches using a crochet hook or knitting needle and weave them back into the fabric.

FAQs

What type of yarn is best for a basket weave scarf?
A medium-weight yarn (worsted weight) is ideal for a basket weave scarf. It provides good texture and works up at a reasonable speed. However, you can experiment with different weights depending on your desired thickness and drape.
I'm a beginner knitter. Is the basket weave stitch difficult to learn?
The basket weave stitch is surprisingly easy to learn, even for beginners! It primarily uses knit and purl stitches in a simple repeating pattern. The tutorial will guide you through each step, making it accessible to all skill levels.