Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Bermuda Scarf
With summer on its way, what better time to knit the Bermuda scarf pattern?
I have been intrigued for some time now by the versatility and shaping opportunities of short rows. Using the template of a scarf/shawl gives me the ideal field on which to experiment. Those short rows transform the lowly Garter Stitch into something entirely different, something truly unique.
Adding a few rows of eyelet lace helps to emphasize the sense of movement, of cascading ocean waves. They also introduce light and lightness.
The other secret to the Bermuda scarf is the use of self-striping yarn. The original version (shown above) is worked in Noro Silk Garden Sock Yarn (colour No. S264). The colour changes, instead of resulting in horizontal stripes as they usually do, curve and undulate and form surprising pockets of colour.
The version pictured below is worked in Kauni Effektgarn, colour "Watercolour".
Here the colour changes are longer and more subtle, more fluid, one colour blending gradually into the next. I love how this yarn works with the short row construction. The Kauni version is so light and yet warm.
The shaping of this scarf/shawl is vaguely triangular. It starts off at the bottom with a few stitches and grows organically along both sides, with both regular and somewhat irregular increases. The result reminds me of batwings. You can get an idea of how the side increases work in the image below.
The curvaceous top border folds back to form a lovely, feminine collar.
The Bermuda scarf is just the thing for summer knitting. Once you understand the construction--and it is not difficult--you can proceed in your own way. No need to take along the pattern when you leave for that trip to the beach.
The Bermuda scarf pattern is also available as a kit for $57.00 CAD (includes both pattern and yarn). Choose the Kauni colourway you like best.
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