Crochet a Chunky Ombre Scarf

This chunky scarf works up quickly in super bulky yarn, and a self-striping yarn cake does all the color changes for you. The sedge stitch gives the fabric a soft, nubby texture with a relaxed drape, and a light fringe on each end adds a polished finish. It is a cozy project for confident beginners and a thoughtful handmade gift for the holidays.

Skill level: Confident beginner
Finished size: About 10 x 50 inches before fringe, about 60 inches long with fringe
Pattern terms: US crochet terms

What You'll Need

• 2 cakes of ThreadArt Ombre Chunky Yarn Cake in Holiday Shades (super bulky #6, 100% soft acrylic, 300 g / 316 yards each). The scarf uses about 325 to 425 yards including fringe, so you will have yarn left over. Actual usage depends on your tension.
• About 30 yards of light yarn for the fringe, set aside from your cake or chosen from our Solid Chunky Yarn collection
• 8 mm (US L/11) crochet hook
• Plastic yarn needle with a large eye
• Scissors
• Measuring tape

Stitch Guide

• ch = chain
• sc = single crochet
• hdc = half double crochet
• dc = double crochet
• Group = (1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc), all worked separately into the same stitch

Work under both top loops of each stitch. The turning ch-1 does not count as a stitch.

Step 1: Set Aside Yarn for the Fringe

Before you start, set aside about 30 yards of light yarn for matching light-colored fringe. If your cake includes a light shade, like the white in Holiday Shades, wind off what you need and keep it separate. You can also use a coordinating yarn of the same weight.

Step 2: Chain the Foundation and Work Row 1

Foundation: Chain 29 loosely.

Row 1: Work a group in the 2nd chain from the hook. *Skip 2 chains; work a group in the next chain. Repeat from * until 3 chains remain. Skip 2 chains; sc in the last chain. 28 stitches: 9 groups + 1 sc.

Step 3: Work the Pattern Row

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Work a group in the first stitch (the sc at the end of the previous row). *Skip the next 2 stitches; work a group in the next sc. Repeat from * until 3 stitches remain. Skip 2 stitches; sc in the last sc. 28 stitches.

Row 2 is the only row you repeat for the rest of the scarf. Each new group sits in the sc of a group from the row below, which builds the textured sedge stitch row by row.

Tip: Count your stitches every few rows. Staying at 28 keeps the edges straight and the width even.

Step 4: Check Your Width

After 4 to 6 rows, lay the scarf flat without stretching and measure across. Aim for 10 inches wide, with a soft, flexible fabric.

To change the width, restart with 3 more or 3 fewer chains. Use a multiple of 3, plus 2. For a smaller width adjustment, change hook size instead.

Step 5: Crochet to Length

Repeat Row 2 until the body measures 50 inches long, excluding fringe. Count 28 stitches regularly, or your adjusted stitch count if you changed the width.

Let the self-striping yarn change colors naturally. Stripe widths and transitions will vary, which gives each scarf its own look. For deliberate color blocks, change yarn at a row end by completing the final sc with the new color. Join your second cake the same way when the first one runs out.

Step 6: Fasten Off and Cut the Fringe

Fasten off and weave in the ends with your yarn needle. Then cut 78 strands of your fringe yarn, each 12 inches long.

Tip: Wrap the yarn around a 6-inch piece of cardboard, then cut along one edge. Every strand comes out 12 inches long.

Step 7: Attach and Trim the Fringe

Each tassel uses 3 strands, with 13 tassels spaced evenly across each short end.

1. Fold 3 strands in half.
2. Pull the folded loop through an end stitch.
3. Draw the 6 loose ends through the loop and snug gently.
4. Repeat to attach 13 tassels evenly across each short end.
5. Lay the scarf flat and trim the fringe to about 5 inches.

Your scarf is finished. Wrap it on for a crisp morning, or fold it with a bow and tuck it under the tree.

Final Thoughts

This scarf is a quick, satisfying make, and once you know the sedge stitch, the same simple row works for cowls, throws, and blankets. Try it in Winter Forest for cool blues and greens, or Desert Sands for soft neutrals, from our Ombre Chunky Yarn collection. Paired with a fresh yarn cake, it makes a warm handmade gift for anyone who loves to crochet.