How to Knit a Neck Gaiter
A neck gaiter is a short, tubular scarf that provides warmth and comfort without the loose ends. Knitting a neck gaiter is an ideal introduction for those unfamiliar with the technique of knitting in the round. This piece will rest on the sensitive skin of the neck, so choose a soft yarn that is not too scratchy.
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Things You'll Need
- Skein of yarn, worsted weight
- Set of 16-inch circular needles, size 8
- Stitch marker
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
Instructions
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1
Cast on 96 stitches using the yarn and circular needle. A loose, stretchy cast-on is best, as you will need to pull the gaiter over your head.
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2
Lay the needle on its side. The cast-on row tends to twirl around the cable, so you must straighten out all the stitches. The edge of your neck gaiter will be twisted and lumpy if you skip this step. Place a stitch marker on the needle after the last stitch.
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3
Join your first stitch to your last stitch by knitting it, making sure one last time that the stitches on the needle are not twisted.
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4
Knit two stitches; purl two stitches. Continue in this pattern until you reach the stitch marker. You have completed one row. Move the stitch marker to the right needle.
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5
Follow the sequence of knitting two stitches and purling two stitches. Pass the stitch marker to the right needle each time you complete a row. When the width of your knitting measures 8 inches, finish a complete row and remove the stitch marker.
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6
Bind off all stitches loosely, keeping in mind that the gaiter will need to be pulled over the head.
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7
Cut the yarn with the scissors or break it, leaving a 6-inch tail. Attach the tapestry needle to the tail and weave in the loose end.
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Tips & Warnings
Your gauge should rest somewhere around five stitches per inch. Gauge is not critical in a piece like this, because it doesn't have to fit perfectly.
References
- Photo Credit ULTRA F/Digital Vision/Getty Images
