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For someone new to knitting, making a scarf seems like the easiest way to go. But too often, beginners are frustrated when their hours of careful knitting yields a skinny tube of rolled up fabric.

This common problem happens when beginning knitters try making their scarf by knitting one row and purling the next (stockinette stitch). This is often one of the first stitches people learn. The result is smooth on one side (outside) and bumpy on the other. The result is also a fabric with edges that roll inward.

Stockinette stitch is commonly used for clothing. When pieces are sewn together, the seams keep the item from curling. Scarves have no seams to keep their edges in place.

A better stitch for knitting a scarf is the garter stitch. Garter stitch is great for beginners. All you have to do is cast on and knit each and every row until your scarf is the length you desire.

To make a basic garter stitch scarf, start with a very bulky yarn and large needles. Cast on 12 stitches (adjust for a wider or narrower scarf) and knit each row. Cast off when the scarf is long enough and weave in the loose ends.

A rib stitch will also lie flat, so it can be a good choice for making a simple scarf. A rib stitch will add ridges to your work. It is often used on the cuffs and waistband of sweaters.

A basic 1x1 rib stitch is made by alternating knitting and purling on each stitch across the row (K1, P1). In the next row, you purl above the stitches that were knit, and knit above the stitches that were purled.

When starting out, try using lighter colored, smooth yarn. This will make it easier to see the details of your stitches. Large knitting needles and chunky yarn will work up quickly. Always use a bulky yarn with large needles to fill up the larger stitches.

To easily give your scarf some style, try using self-striping yarns. Self-striping yarns are variegated yarns where each color lasts long enough to give the finished project a striped effect. They work especially well on narrow projects like scarves. Some self-striping yarns include, Moda Dea's Sassy Stripes and Lily's Sugar 'n Cream stripes.

Easy scarf patterns are also available in knitting magazines and books and on the Internet. These patterns can offer a little more variety when you are ready to try out new ideas.

With a little practice, and the right stitch pattern, you will be knitting beautiful scarves in no time!

Learn more about this author, Susan Quilty.
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