Mathanas is the Gaelic word for forgiveness. This scarf starts with a cabled knot at the centre which loosens into a leafy vine that travels the length of the scarf, surrounded by a border of seed stitch. In the language of knitters, it is the story of a journey towards forgiveness: as we untwist our anger and nurture the seeds of peace, we grow.

The leaf pattern is easily memorized after you’ve done one or two repeats, and the only cables are in that centre knot - once it is done, you are just doing twist stitches so you don’t have to keep a cable needle with you once you are underway.

Use any yarn that will give good stitch definition that is between 7 and 12 WPI, and needles to suit. A natural fibre that will block well is recommended, as the reverse stockinette will curl a little. If you want to use a yarn that won’t block out well (or if you just want the scarf to lie flatter) extend the seed stitch closer to the leaf patterns: just keep 2 stitches in reverse stockinette on either side of the leaves and stems, and carry the seed stitch the rest of the way across.