40+ Free Scarf Knitting Patterns
These knit scarf patterns and knit cowl patterns are perfect for every season and every occasion.
You've thrown on your best blouse and jeans, but one thing is missing: a scarf. No matter what the season, there's the perfect free knit scarf pattern to top off your outfit. Whether you're a beginner knitter or you just enjoy easy scarf knitting patterns for beginners for a lazy project, scarves are meant for you. Plus, if you're looking to cover your face, why pay for a face mask when you can cover up with scarf?
Whether you're seeking a scarf that's warm or a scarf that's rich in color to act as a striking accent, the right one is out there — you just need to find it!
To help get you started, we've pulled together a list of some of our favorite scarves. Below you'll find free scarf knitting patterns for every season, in colorful, lacy and unique patterns. Discover your next favorite project, and then have fun customizing it to suit your personal taste.
There's a reason that scarves are great for beginners; they typically involve little to no increasing or decreasing, and there's no need to pay attention to things like knitting gauge (for the most part). Whether you're doing something simple like garter stitch or a more complicated lace motif, these free scarf patterns have just what you're looking for!
Sign up for our daily newsletter to receive more amazing FREE patterns delivered directly to your inbox!
Learn how to knit a scarf in no time flat with this video, then browse through the other patterns in this list:
Table of Contents
Easy Free Scarf Knitting Patterns
Just because the weather is getting warmer, doesn't mean you can't wear scarves. Check out these gorgeous free scarf patterns that are lightweight and beautiful enough to wear all year long. Nothing says summer quite like scalloped edges, ruffles, and lace! Keep your crafting obsession on a budget this summer and pick out one of these free knitting patterns for scarves as your next project. (Psst... that way you can spend more money on yarn.) No matter your skill level, there's a scarf knitting pattern for everyone.
If you are just learning how to knit, this Fitzgerald Scarf is a wonderful project to help bulk up your skills.
Get This Pattern
This beginner knitting pattern is ideal for those who want to get their feet wet in the knitting world. You can easily work up this piece and style it in a variety of ways since it is so wide and so cozy.
Get This Pattern
This is one of the most stunning scarf knitting patterns. Free patterns that truly dazzle are hard to find, so knit it up!
Get This Pattern
Made with crossed-over stitches, the texture of this buttery yellow scarf is positively alluring.
Get This Pattern
When you first learn how to knit, looking at all of the patterns available can sometimes be a bit intimidating. The Garter Drop-Stitch Scarf is the knit scarf pattern made with beginner knitters in mind.
Get This Pattern
The Double Basketweave Cowl is the easy knit scarf pattern you need to cast on your needles as soon as you have a chance. The look and texture created from the pattern is simplistic fashion at its best.
Get This Pattern
Employing simple knitting techniques, this knit scarf pattern can be taken up by knitters of all skill levels, and it doesn't even take long to complete.
Get This Pattern
Advanced knitters, you'll be able to churn these scarves out one after the other, so try making them as gifts for your family, or knitting some for charity.
Get This Pattern
Easy scarf knitting patterns for beginners like this one are perfect for drawing the eye without requiring too much patience from you as a knitter.
Get This Pattern
This knit scarf has tons of extra bulk and texture because of the layered brioche stitch the pattern uses. The pattern is so long and wide, it could easily be used as a shawl if you were so inclined.
Get This Pattern
Bright, colorful, and unique, the easy knitting pattern is a great way to make the most of the odds-and-ends you have on hand.
Get This Pattern
The purple people eater would be envious of this scarf! Use this free knitting pattern to make one for yourself. Hurry up because he may eat it before you can wear it!
Get This Pattern
The nature of the knit scarf, which is knitted with circular needles, makes this scarf particularly warm without having to be thick, cumbersome, and uncomfortable.
Get This Pattern
Great for both men and women, this cozy ribbed knit scarf is dying to keep you warm this holiday season. It takes awhile for the pattern to show, but stick with it, and before you know it, a rich texture will emerge right before your eyes.
Get This Pattern
Are you ready to fall in love with this beautiful scarf pattern?
Note: This project is from I Like Knitting digital magazine. Non-members can access 3 free patterns every month. Subscribe to the I Like Knitting Gold Club for unlimited access to their entire pattern archive, featuring hundreds of exclusive patterns.
Lace Scarf Patterns
This collection of free scarf patterns are lovely in lace and designed to inspire. Go grab your favorite wool skein from your yarn stash and create any one of these beauties; the free scarf knitting patterns are so visually striking, it doesn't matter what kind of yarn you use -- it'll look fantastic!
Simple yet elegant, this lacy scarf pattern features a gradating color purple scheme, much like a mystical waterfall.
Get This Pattern
The lacy pattern on the ends of this scarf will make it an instant favorite. This gorgeous knit scarf pattern is sure to draw plenty of compliments, no matter where you wear it.
Get This Pattern
Bursting with eye-catching color and made with a construction that's lighter than air, this scarf also boasts a simple lace pattern, making it ideal for those who are interested in learning the delicate art of lace knitting.
Get This Pattern
This light scarf is perfect for all types of weather. If you're looking for a knit scarf, you'll be pleased with your results.
Get This Pattern
Combine lace and stockinette stitches to look graceful in this delicate knit pattern. All of the pretty details in this scarf make it a summer essential.
Get This Pattern
This lacy scarf pattern is as cozy as it is intricate. The Candle Flame Scarf is a reversible, lace knit scarf with beautiful stitch detailing. The pretty lace and cable pattern mimics the look of flickering candle flames moving with the wind.
Get This Pattern
Infinity Scarf Patterns
Scarves are certainly fun projects to work on. Quick and relatively simple, you can get through any one of these free knitting patterns for scarves in almost no time at all. If your collection of scarves is starting to take off, why not try your hand at an infinity scarf for a little variety? These patterns are a great place to start your pattern search.
Because it is such a quick knit, this easy knitting pattern is perfect to work on while curling up on the couch on a Friday night with a good movie.
Get This Pattern
This adorable infinity scarf is warm, cozy, and makes a great gift for anyone who loves soft knitwear. The Simple Infinity Scarf is a pattern every knitter should know.
Get This Pattern
Learn how to make an infinity scarf entirely in seed stitch; the texture of the pattern enhances the natural beauty of the handpainted wool that's featured in this Bed of Moss Infinity Scarf.
Get This Pattern
This quirky knit scarf pattern incredibly simple and knits up extremely quickly. This reflective scarf gets its glimmer from Patons Metallic yarn.
Get This Pattern
The Two Hour Cowl is a great pattern for those just beginning knitting who want the satisfaction of finished project in a short amount of time.
Get This Pattern
The open weave of the lace pattern is lovely as well. This free knitting pattern is knit in the round with 360 stitches, so it's a bit of a marathon.
Get This Pattern
This infinity scarf knitting pattern is also perfect for beginners because it only calls for a simple repeating knit and purl pattern to create the corduroy look, so even new knitters can tackle this easy knitting pattern with confidence.
Get This Pattern
You will love wearing this easy knitting pattern all season long and the multitude of colors will surely catch your eye. Once you have completed this scarf, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful wave-like effect of the pattern.
Get This Pattern
This stunning infinity scarf pattern incorporates a little bit of lace that's just enough to make it stunning but good for beginners as well.
Get This Pattern
Knit Cowl Patterns
These free knitted cowl patterns will add just the right touch of simple elegance to any summertime outfit. With the help of a fun yarn, these knitted cowl patterns are also fun to knit. They are easy to make and beautiful to wear! Wrap them around your neck to stay comfortable and cozy when the sun goes down and the breeze kicks in.
This beautiful light lavender-colored cowl is the perfect addition to a light and lacy top or dress.
Get This Pattern
This knit cowl pattern would be an excellent basic to add to your wardrobe!
Get This Pattern
As delicate as a doily around your neck, but stylish as a high-fashion kerchief, you'll probably forget you're wearing this cowl until someone compliments you.
Get This Pattern
Ridge and Furrow Knit Cowl Pattern
This cowl was originally designed for silk yarn, but you can use any fiber you want for this knitted cowl pattern.
Get This Pattern
This stunning twisted cable pattern is great for showing off yarns that feature stunning colorways!
Get This Pattern
This pattern is simple and perfect for fledgling knitters out there looking to knit something more interesting than a scarf.
Get This Pattern
The pattern uses Bernat Satin Sparkle, which adds an extra shimmer to your knitting and makes this cowl even more mystical.
Get This Pattern
Unlike other cowl knitting patterns, this one isn't big and bulky, so you can wear it with almost anything. This knit cowl pattern is fitted and chic enough to layer over a blazer, yet cozy and warm enough to put on under a jacket.
Get This Pattern
The royal blue color of the cowl is flattering on almost every skin tone and hair color, making this pretty accessory a must-knit.
Get This Pattern
Up Next:
How Much Yarn Do You Need for a Scarf?
Which scarf pattern is going to be your next project?
Read NextDiagonal Pinstripe Scarf
Your Recently Viewed Projects
Thanks for your comment. Don't forget to share!
Hippie Chick
Nov 03, 2018
Another awesome collection of patterns in this collection that features scarves. I clicked on several of the links and did not have any trouble with those in accessing the free patterns. I am not sure what the issue is with the other commenter that states she will never come to this site again because I have always had an easy time navigated around on here.
Hippie Chick
Sep 21, 2018
This is by far one of the best collections of free scarf patterns that I have found lately. It covers almost every type of project and ranges from beginners to more advanced patterns. Be sure to bookmark this to refer back to in the future. I am sure that I will use several of the patterns included with this.
lexiepro 6746472
Dec 08, 2013
I know this is off topic, but I would like to send a pattern in. What do you mean by, "Topic"? Thank you for your help and sorry that I posted this.
jenlesterart 79506 36
Jul 19, 2013
not coming here anymore its tons of clicks to get to more clicks, then to links to things and everything is confusing. waste of time
marshasloan 543124 6
Feb 02, 2013
Very difficult to find Fitzgerald scarf patterns. When trying to download it takes you to other pictures of projects. t takes you to pictures of
alargay 5113275
Jan 19, 2013
I like this site - but not sure how to print the patterns. And can someone explain a 3 needle bind off?
JessiCAN
Jan 21, 2013
@alargay - You can print most of these patterns by copying and pasting them into Word documents or notepad files. Hope this helps! -- Editors of AllFreeKnitting.com
Lisa
Sep 21, 2013
3 needle bindo off is when you use 3 needles to bind and graft an item together, instead of sewing a seam-its quite easy-lots of videos on youtube for it. Hope this helps.
msmerricat 3526491
Jan 03, 2013
Wonderful! And it would be even more wonderful if you would put all eight patterns in an e-book :D
bubasgirl
Oct 17, 2012
Wonderful patterns, I have I pad, I download and print each that I need. I don't understand those having problems. Thanks to all who have made this possible for we who look look for bargains!!!
susanmeehan 172165 0
Oct 05, 2012
I'm trying to get the free pattern for the Bossa Nova scarf. How do I get that? Thank you.
BHerb
Sep 20, 2012
Hi Lynparks940, I can assure you that all of the links in the main content of the scarf pattern guide go to patterns on this site that will provide you with lovely free knitting patterns. There are ads on the page, but they surround the main text and are located on the page borders. editors of AllFreeKnitting
lynparks940 471678 4
Sep 19, 2012
You are running a scam. There are no free knitting patterns, just links to things to buy
BHerb
Jul 18, 2012
Hi Weberling, To access the patterns in this article, please just click on the links. These will take you to the project page for each where the designer's pattern link is given. Hope this helps! editors, AllFreeKnitting
wheberling 2347482
Jul 18, 2012
I would like to recieve the patterns for the Free Knitting Scarfs, how do I get the patterns. I see the information but no directions. Please inform this poor person on how to complete receiving all this free information. Thank you. M. H.
Crafter 9630776
Jun 12, 2012
I wish they were in PDF form. Makes it easy to download on the iPad. But can't complain because it's free patterns.
Mykas Mom
Apr 16, 2012
While I love all the patterns I wish getting to them didn't mean having to go thru so many steps. Isn't there a way you can show us a picture with the name and then when you click on that get the pattern instead of having to click on the name, see the picture then click again to get the pattern? It is very time consuming as it is an makes me as well as I'm sure others decide not to bother and just delete the whole thing? I'm sure I can't be the only person who has made this comment? I get very frustrated after one or two items and just say forget it and go to Ravelry which has a much easier system to view the patterns.
kathyj24405 022100 3
Feb 20, 2012
I'd like to know how to have an even edge always for scarves. When I knit & purl scarves I'd like to have perfect edges. Thanks
barbrat 8068205
Oct 22, 2012
Add an extra at the beginning of the cast on and at the enof the needle and then slip the stitch at the begining of the row and then end of the row..and your edge will be straight....or... you can knit one and purl one then your pattern and at the end knit one purl one and the next row purl one and knit one to the first two stitches and follow with pattern.. in other words..the first 2 stitches of the row and end of the row will not curl...as if you knit every row the edge will always curl...it is a fact....
JennyBee1
Dec 05, 2011
@eviekranz13 2788205, Here is a link to a great, free pattern for a potato chip scarf: http://www.allfreeknitting.com/Knit-Scarves/potato-chip-scarf I hope this helps! -editors of AllFreeKnitting
editorKS
Dec 01, 2011
Hi, tribblecat 3942690. I'm sorry to hear of your trouble. I have two options for you: 1. You can contact the pattern designer directly for help. The designer is specified in the byline. 2. I might also suggest that you try posting your question to our sites Facebook page. It is monitored by the editor and is a great resource for helpful tips and suggestions from our Facebook friends; perhaps they can offer some guidance! Here is the link: http://www.facebook.com/AllFreeKnitting Thanks! --Editors of AllFreeKnitting
tribblecat 3942690
Nov 30, 2011
I am having a problem with my scarf curling up. Can you help me'Thanksbr
JennyBee1
Aug 11, 2011
@elainegaffney 1680877, To view the full pattern, you must click on the link that says "Click here for knitting pattern." A new page will open with the full pattern. From here, you can copy and paste the text of the pattern into a Word document and print from there. Hope this helps! --Editor of AllFreeKnitting
lousammons 4569011
Jan 03, 2011
I'm a beginning knitter. I am trying to knit the autumn wowza scarf, but the sides are curling in. How can I correct this? thanks
benmay 7442671
Jan 01, 2011
hi I probably would be better at this if I knew what I was doing. it sounds good glad things like this are available.
Report Inappropriate Comment
Are you sure you would like to report this comment? It will be flagged for our moderators to take action.
Thank you for taking the time to improve the content on our site.
