In his never-ending quest for toasty-ness, Mr Yak kept staring at me until I became inspired to put together this light and drapey scarf/wrap. But don’t be fooled by its large gauge – it’s made of alpaca, and it’s still toasty enough to keep a sensitive Yak (picky) warm enough for the winter, or in those chilly air-conditioned offices he seems to frequent. It also has the occasional thicker stripe, created with a nifty and simple plying technique, that add to the visual interest as well as weighting the ends for added swing.

You will be using a plying technique used in spinning called Navaho Plying to create the thicker stripes – but don’t worry, although it may look or sound intimidating, it’s actually not difficult, and you’ll find yourself zipping along in no time.

The skills needed are the knit stitch, and the ability to do a basic knitted cast on and cast off. In this pattern you will learn a new cast on and cast off (included in the instructions) that builds on these basics. If necessary, there is also a tutorial that is more detailed and includes photos. Message me if you find that you would like a copy of the tutorial (at no extra cost).

Materials:
600 yards of dk weight yarn. This piece has a pretty open gauge – but that helps to give it a lovely drape, as well as letting the alpaca breathe so that it’s not too warm. In addition to 100% alpaca, blends including alpaca, silk, cashmere, wool, or any combination of those would work as well.
US13 (9mm) Knitting needle
Crochet needle similar in size to your knitting needle
Tapestry needle

Gauge: 3 st/1” in garter stitch

The finished size is 19” x 58”, but it will stretch a bit naturally lengthwise over time due to the character of garter stitch.

This pattern is suitable for beginner, rusty knitters, or those needing a nice mindless piece to do while watching that dvd marathon or in the car when complicated just doesn’t work! (I’m watching you Fox Paws!! Grrr ☺ )