An example of the magpie scrap knitting technique
A magpie scarf is one of the best ways to use up scraps of yarn that are otherwise unsuitable for projects. There is no "right" or "wrong" way to make a magpie scarf, so it can be a good project for beginners. Gather many types of yarn for different textures. You can keep the yarn in the same color family or use several different colors, but the weight of the yarns should be similar. Worsted weight yarns usually work best for magpie scarves. But you also can use thinner yarns, such as novelty fur, knit in conjunction with a thicker yarn.
Use 30-inch or larger circular needles to cast on as many stitches as possible with one color of yarn. Leave a long tail of yarn at the beginning of your scarf. When you reach the end of your stitches, cut the yarn, leaving a long tail.
Turn the needles around so you're back at your starting place, and knit one more row. You might use a different color or the same color; switch colors as often as you like.
Continue knitting in this manner, leaving long tails of yarn at the end of each color change until the scarf is your desired width. Cast off your stitches.
If you run out of a color mid-row, you have several options. You can tie a simple knot to join a new color or rip back to the beginning of the row and use a longer piece of yarn. Usually there are many textures and colors in a magpie scarf, so any method you choose will look right at home in this unconventional scarf.
Knot each adjacent tail of yarn together, on both sides. You can choose to even up the lengths of fringe or leave them different lengths for a more bohemian look. You can even take the time to weave the ends of yarn into your project for a classically finished look without fringe.
A close up of the texture of garter stitch
Cast on your desired number of stitches using appropriate needles. Knit back and forth every row for as many rows as it takes to reach your desired width measurement. Bind off your stitches, and weave in any loose ends. Add tassels or fringe, if desired.
Simple patterns, like ribbing, allow the colors and textures of yarns to shine
Using appropriate needles for your chosen yarn, cast on your desired number of stitches. Knit one row, then purl one row for one inch, or until you tire of it. Then purl one row and knit one row for an inch. Continue in this manner until the scarf is the width you would like, and cast off your stitches in the appropriate manner. Weave in any loose ends of yarn to finish. Add tassels or fringe, if desired.
