Meet the ever versatile Cary’s Kerchief!
This 1950s inspired accessory is about six different accessories in one. First and foremost, it is intended to be a fitted, double-layer headscarf that uses either a button or snaps to fasten at the back neck and keep you cozy, warm, and dry as we approach the unpredictable and damp seasons. If you don’t need as fitted of a covering, you could also tie it at the center front for a different look! And once you’ve reached your destination (or at least when the wind calms down), the head scarf transforms into a stylish neck scarf, which can be tied, left open, pinned, or you can tie and button it! You can see this in action in some of the photos above-- this was a happy accident on the design front, but I just love how it looks!
The kerchief is a simple construction from point to point, with some short rows at the center to add shape and keep the knitting interesting. This project will use a full skein of fingering weight or sock yarn. If you get worried about playing a game of yarn chicken, there are instructions to help ensure you have enough yarn for the second half without running out!

The kerchief is named after Cary from one of my all time favorite films, All That Heaven Allows, 1955. Cary wears a beautiful array of knitted kerchiefs, and I thought it is high time we bring these versatile knits back into fashion!

This pattern is available exclusively at Squid’s School of Vintage Knitting. Come join the fun over on patreon!