This pattern guides you step by step through creating a unique motif scarf, using the technique of shadow or illusion knitting. With this special method, the motif only becomes visible when viewed from the side – a striking effect with real wow-factor!

Warning! Illusion knitting is addictive.
I haven’t even finished writing this pattern yet, and I’m already working on the next scarf. Once you get the hang of it, there’s no stopping you! ;)

To knit this scarf, you only need to know how to work knit and purl stitches, as well as how to knit or slip stitches through the back loop.

You can either use the edge stitches described in the pattern or choose edge stitches that you prefer.

The edging to stabilize the scarf is crocheted using single crochet. It’s helpful to have basic knowledge of crochet for this part.

The pattern is 12 pages long. I decided not to include a chart, as it would be too confusing. The stitches for each row are listed in writing. Example: 10k, 2p, 2k, 1p, … etc.

My finished scarf measures approximately 220 cm (length) x 20 cm (width).

For this scarf, I used 2 small solid-color yarn cakes that I wound myself (50% cotton / 50% acrylic).

(If you don’t have the option to wind your own cakes, it’s best to ask your yarn supplier for a custom winding, or use yarn you like with a length of about 300 meters per color. Keep in mind that depending on the thickness of the yarn, the scarf may turn out larger or smaller.)

Each color consisted of 8 strands and 300 meters in length. The two colors you choose should have a strong contrast. Black can, of course, be combined with bright, vibrant colors. If you want to use white, it’s better to pair it with darker colors so the pattern is clearly visible.

You will also need a circular knitting needle size 5 mm and a crochet hook size 4 mm.