The Sunburst Fringe Scarf: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Bohemian, Textured Accessory
Wrap Yourself in Sunshine: The Sunburst Fringe Scarf
There’s something magical about a project that works up quickly yet looks like it took weeks. The Sunburst Fringe Scarf is exactly that—a bohemian dream made with super bulky yarn and a gorgeous, textured sunburst stitch. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or a confident beginner looking for your next cozy make, this free pattern will guide you through creating a stunning, one-of-a-kind accessory. With its warm terracotta and creamy off-white stripes and playful chunky fringe, this scarf is the perfect accent for any outfit, from jeans to dresses. Best of all, you can finish it in a single evening!
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather these supplies. Using the exact yarn weight and hook size is key to achieving the chunky, drapey texture shown in the photos.
- Yarn: Super Bulky (Weight 6) yarn in two colors:
- Main Color (MC): Warm terracotta or burnt orange (approx 150g / 110 yds). Example: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in “Spiced Pumpkin.”
- Contrast Color (CC): Creamy off-white or natural (approx 100g / 75 yds). Example: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in “Fisherman.”
- Hook: Size N/P (10 mm) crochet hook.
- Other: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors.
Gauge & Sizing
Gauge: 4 sunburst stitches (each made of 3 dc) and 4 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in pattern. Gauge is not critical for this scarf, but consistency will ensure even stripes and a neat finish.
Finished Size: Approximately 8 inches wide and 60 inches long (including fringe).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- sl st – slip stitch
- MC – Main Color (terracotta)
- CC – Contrast Color (off-white)
Pattern Notes
- The scarf is worked flat in rows. The sunburst stitch is created by working (dc, ch 1, dc) into the same stitch or space, then skipping 2 stitches.
- The turning chain at the beginning of each row counts as the first double crochet unless stated otherwise.
- You will alternate colors every 2 rows to create the striped effect.
Main Scarf Body
Row 1 (Right Side): With MC, ch 22. Dc in the 4th ch from hook (this counts as your first dc). *Skip 2 ch, (dc, ch 1, dc) in next ch*; repeat from * across until you have 3 chains left. Skip 2 ch, dc in the last ch. Turn. You should have 6 sunbursts (each sunburst = (dc, ch 1, dc)) and 2 single dc at the ends (one at the beginning, one at the end).
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as first dc). Dc in the first stitch (the space right below the ch 3). *Skip 2 stitches, (dc, ch 1, dc) in the next ch-1 space (the center of the sunburst from the previous row)*; repeat from * across until you reach the last 2 stitches. Skip 2 stitches, 2 dc in the top of the turning chain from the previous row. Turn. You will have 6 sunbursts and 2 dc at each end.
Row 3: Ch 3 (counts as first dc). Skip the next dc (the first of the two dc from the previous row). *Skip 2 stitches, (dc, ch 1, dc) in the next ch-1 space*; repeat from * across until you reach the last 2 stitches. Skip 2 stitches, dc in the top of the turning chain. Turn. You will have 6 sunbursts and 1 dc at each end.
Rows 4-20: Repeat Rows 2 and 3, alternating colors every 2 rows as follows:
- Rows 4-5: Use CC (off-white)
- Rows 6-7: Use MC (terracotta)
- Rows 8-9: Use CC
- Rows 10-11: Use MC
- Rows 12-13: Use CC
- Rows 14-15: Use MC
- Rows 16-17: Use CC
- Rows 18-19: Use MC
- Row 20: Use CC
Adding the Fringe
The fringe is what gives this scarf its bohemian flair. Follow these steps carefully for a professional finish.
- Cut yarn: Cut 12-inch (30 cm) lengths of CC yarn. You will need approximately 40-50 strands total (20-25 per end).
- Prepare fringe bundles: For each fringe, take 2 strands of yarn and fold them in half to create a loop.
- Attach fringe: Insert your crochet hook from the back to the front through the edge of the scarf at the end of a row (along the short edge). Hook the folded loop of yarn and pull it through the fabric, creating a loop on the front side. Take the two loose ends of the yarn and pull them through the loop. Tighten gently.
- Spacing: Add fringe to both short ends of the scarf. Space them evenly—about one fringe per row (every 2 stitches) works perfectly. For a 20-row scarf, you’ll have about 10 fringes per end.
- Trim: Once all fringe is attached, lay the scarf flat and trim the ends of the fringe to an even length (about 4 inches long from the edge of the scarf).
Your Sunburst Fringe Scarf is complete! Wrap it around your neck, drape it over your shoulders, or gift it to a fellow boho lover. The textured stitch and chunky fringe will make every outfit feel effortlessly artistic. Happy crocheting!