The basic pattern for this scarf is simple. The fun part is in choosing yarns. While it is best to use yarns of similar gauge, you can double or triple and combine yarns of different gauges. But the best part is that the front and back of the scarf can look very different from each other, though each will look polished and finished.

It’s a wonderful way to use up scraps and to play with single balls of yarn that you don’t know what to do with. I’d encourage you also to play with fibers you don’t usually use--they can all feel at home here!

You can use any gauge yarn you prefer and whatever hook gives you the drape and feel that you want.

This pattern includes detailed notes on selecting colors and placing them to create a unified looking scarf from very different yarns. If you’ve always wanted to do freeform and were afraid to try it, you can use this pattern for the stitches and just play with different yarns, following the suggestions in the recipe.

And there are three different ways, with photos, to treat the ends of the scarf: plain, mesh with beads and knotted fringe.

And, since it’s worked the long way, it’s very easy to add enough rows to make a shawl instead of a scarf.

Try it, you’ll like it!