The Terra Nova Color Block Super Scarf: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Cozy, Modern Statement Piece

Wrap Yourself in Earthy Warmth: The Terra Nova Color Block Super Scarf

There’s something deeply satisfying about wrapping yourself in a scarf that feels both modern and timeless. The Terra Nova Color Block Super Scarf is exactly that—a bold, oversized statement piece that brings the warmth of the earth into your wardrobe. With its unique Terra Nova Stitch, this scarf creates a stunning woven, almost basket-weave texture that looks far more complex than it actually is. Designed for intermediate knitters, this free pattern uses bulky yarn and clean color blocking to produce a cozy, plush accessory that’s perfect for chilly days. Whether you’re curling up by the fire or stepping out into the crisp air, this scarf will keep you stylish and snug.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. The pattern uses bulky weight yarn (Size 5) and a long circular needle to accommodate the width comfortably.

• Yarn: Bulky weight yarn (Size 5). Shown in three colors:
  • Color A (Terracotta Clay) – 2 skeins (approx. 200-230 yards each)
  • Color B (Sagebrush Green) – 2 skeins
  • Color C (Driftwood Gray) – 2 skeins
  • Total yardage: Approximately 600-700 yards.
• Needles: US 10.5 (6.5 mm) circular knitting needles, 32-inch length or longer (for working flat).
• Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors.
• Gauge: 12 stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches in the Terra Nova Stitch pattern (after blocking).
• Finished Dimensions: Approximately 14 inches wide by 80 inches long (blocked).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your Terra Nova Super Scarf. The pattern is worked flat in rows, and the color blocks are joined as you go. Take your time with the slipped stitches—they create the beautiful woven effect.

Special Stitches: The Terra Nova Stitch Pattern

This stitch pattern is a multiple of 4 + 2 stitches. You will repeat these 16 rows for each color block. Note: “wyif” means “with yarn in front” (yarn held to the front of the work as if to purl), and “wyib” means “with yarn in back” (yarn held to the back as if to knit).

• Row 1 (RS): Knit all stitches.
• Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.
• Row 3: *K2, slip 2 stitches purlwise with yarn in front (wyif)*; repeat from * to last 2 stitches, K2.
• Row 4: P2, *slip 2 stitches purlwise with yarn in back (wyib), P2*; repeat from * to end.
• Rows 5-8: Repeat Rows 1-4.
• Row 9: Knit all stitches.
• Row 10: Purl all stitches.
• Row 11: *Slip 2 stitches purlwise wyif, K2*; repeat from * to last 2 stitches, slip 2 wyif.
• Row 12: *P2, slip 2 wyib*; repeat from * to last 2 stitches, P2.
• Rows 13-16: Repeat Rows 9-12.

Knitting the Color Blocks

Work each color block in order. When joining a new color, simply tie a small knot or use your preferred method for a clean join, leaving a 6-inch tail to weave in later.

Color Block A (Terracotta Clay) – First Section

• Cast on 42 stitches using Color A.
• Work Rows 1-16 of the Terra Nova Stitch pattern 3 times (48 rows total).
• Cut yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.

Color Block B (Sagebrush Green) – First Section

• Join Color B.
• Work Rows 1-16 of the Terra Nova Stitch pattern 4 times (64 rows total).
• Cut yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.

Color Block C (Driftwood Gray) – Center Section

• Join Color C.
• Work Rows 1-16 of the Terra Nova Stitch pattern 4 times (64 rows total).
• Cut yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.

Color Block B (Sagebrush Green) – Second Section

• Join Color B.
• Work Rows 1-16 of the Terra Nova Stitch pattern 4 times (64 rows total).
• Cut yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.

Color Block A (Terracotta Clay) – Final Section

• Join Color A.
• Work Rows 1-16 of the Terra Nova Stitch pattern 3 times (48 rows total).
• Bind off all stitches loosely in pattern: knit the knits and purl the purls as they appear. For slipped stitches, slip them as you bind off (or simply knit them if you prefer a looser edge). Ensure the bind-off is not tight to maintain the scarf’s drape.
• Weave in all ends securely using a tapestry needle.

Finishing

• Blocking: Block the scarf to the finished dimensions (14 inches wide by 80 inches long). Gently steam block or wet block to open up the stitch pattern and even out the edges. Lay flat to dry completely. This step is crucial for the woven effect to shine.
• Optional Fringe: For extra drama, add long, twisted fringe to each end. Cut 16-inch lengths of each color (mix them for a multicolored fringe). Fold each strand in half, use a crochet hook to pull the loop through an edge stitch, then pull the ends through the loop. Repeat across the width, spacing evenly. Trim the fringe to a uniform length.

Your Terra Nova Color Block Super Scarf is now complete! Enjoy the rich texture and earthy tones that make this piece a true modern classic. Happy knitting!