How to Crochet the Elsbeth Inspired Granny Square Scarf
Creating something with your own hands is always rewarding, and today, I’ve got the perfect crochet project to share: the Elsbeth Inspired Granny Square Scarf! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this step-by-step crochet guide is perfect for making a stylish, handmade scarf with a modern twist. Plus, you can follow along with my video tutorial, available for both right- and left-handed crocheters.
Let’s jump into it and turn some simple stitches into a stunning scarf—trust me, you’ll love how easy this project is!
Why You’ll Love This Tutorial
If you’ve ever found joining granny squares a bit intimidating, this tutorial is your game-changer (and yes, I truly mean that!). With my Continuous Join As You Go (CJAYGO) method, you’ll learn how to join your granny squares seamlessly—just two ends to weave in! Follow the clear instructions, and we’ll walk through each stitch, corner, and connection together.
Take a look at similar inspiring patterns on The Secret Yarnery Granny Squares Collection.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Before we begin, let’s gather all the essentials:
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Yarn: You’ll need six different colors of 4-weight (worsted) acrylic yarn.
- Cream (joining color): 156g.
- Orange and Light Blue: 60g each.
- Dark Blue and Light Pink: 24g each.
- Hot Pink: 12g.
You can adapt the colors to what you have on hand, but this combination adds a lovely checkerboard balance to the scarf!
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Tools:
- A 6 mm crochet hook.
- Yarn needle (for weaving in those tails).
- Scissors (a sharp pair will make your life easier).
Want to explore more crochet projects for beginners? Check out Easy Crochet Projects You Can Start Today.
How To Crochet the Granny Squares
Each granny square for the Elsbeth Scarf is worked with four rounds. Let’s break it down step-by-step:
Round One: Starting the Center
- Begin with a slip knot using your center color yarn.
- Chain 3 and form a loop (ring) by inserting your hook in the first chain. Slip stitch to close the loop.
Pro Tip: Keep the tail of your yarn wrapped along the ring—this makes finishing much neater later!
- Chain 3 (this counts as your first DC), then work 2 double crochets (DC) into the ring.
- Chain 2 (corner space). Repeat: 3 DC, Chain 2 until you have 4 total sets of 3 DC clusters separated by 2 chains.
- Slip stitch into the top of the initial chain 3 to close the round. Finish by cutting the yarn and leaving a tail.
This creates the base for your square. Need clearer instructions? You can find detailed granny square techniques like this in the Written Patterns Tagged "Granny".
Rounds Two to Four: Adding Layers
Each round builds on the previous one. For every corner, you’ll follow this same pattern:
- 3 double crochets (DC), Chain 2, 3 DC into the corner chain space.
- For side spaces between corners, it’s just: 3 DC into each gap.
Work Tip: To keep the stitches flat and consistent, turn your work after every round. This keeps the little “V” edges all facing one side.
By the end of Round Four, you’ll have beautifully shaped squares ready for assembly. With this scarf, you’ll need 24 total squares—12 in blue tones and 12 with pinky-orange tones.
You can find beginner-friendly written patterns for projects like this here.
Assembling Your Squares: Continuous Join As You Go
Now comes the exciting part—joining! This can seem tricky if you’re new to CJAYGO, but it simplifies the process of connecting squares while keeping tails manageable.
- Arrange your squares in a checkerboard pattern. Make sure they’re all facing the same way, with the "pretty VS" down.
- Use the cream yarn for joining. Begin by joining one side of a row, working 3 DC into each corner/side. Slip stitch to connect the corners between squares.
- Continue until all squares for Row 1 are visually connected like a bunting or garland.
- Turn your scarf and follow the same process for assembling Row 2, attaching it to Row 1 as you work.
This creates strong, clean joins without cutting your yarn between squares. For more details on completing joins, see Blocks Collection on Secret Yarnery.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Once your scarf is assembled, take a moment to weave in any loose ends. This might seem tedious, but a great finish will make your scarf wearable for years!
For the last tail (where the join ends), I suggest an invisible join instead of a slip stitch. Thread your yarn needle and mimic your last stitch for a seamless look. Done carefully, this will make your scarf appear entirely stitch-perfect.
An invisible join technique guide can be found in the Crochet Pattern Tools Section.
Wrapping Up
There you have it—your very own Elsbeth Inspired Granny Square Scarf! Whether you’re keeping it for yourself or gifting it to a lucky recipient, this scarf blends timeless square designs with a modern, vibrant twist. It’s proof that with just a few materials and stitches, you can create something beautiful and personal.
If you've loved making this scarf, tag your creation with #ElsbethMAL24 on social media! I’d love to see your finished projects. And if you're itching for more fun scarf ideas, take a look at the Speedy Granny Ruth Rainbow Scarf Pattern.
Happy crocheting, and as always, stay hooked!
Left Handed?
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of yarn for this project?
Absolutely! While the tutorial suggests 4-weight acrylic yarn for the Elsbeth Inspired Granny Square Scarf, you can experiment with different types of yarn. Just keep in mind that changes in yarn weight or fiber might affect the size and drape of your scarf.
2. How long does it take to complete the scarf?
The time needed can vary based on your crochet speed and experience. On average:
- Creating the granny squares may take 1-3 hours for beginners.
- Assembling the scarf using the CJAYGO method could take an additional 1-2 hours.
Expect to finish within 4-6 hours of dedicated work.
3. How do I customize the size of the scarf?
To increase or decrease the scarf's size:
- Add or reduce the number of granny squares.
- Adjust the number of rows or pattern arrangement during the assembly step.
Remember to maintain a balanced checkerboard layout if you change the number of squares.
4. What if I don’t know how to do the CJAYGO method?
No worries! The tutorial explains it step-by-step, but if you’re still unsure, you can start with traditional joining techniques like slip stitching or sewing the squares together. The final look might differ slightly, but it’s a great way to practice.
5. Can I use leftover yarn from other projects?
Yes! This is a fantastic stash-busting project. Mix and match leftover yarn colors to create a unique, scrappy look. Just ensure the yarns are of similar weight for consistency.
6. What’s the best way to block granny squares?
Blocking helps the squares maintain their shape. To block:
- Lightly steam or spritz water on the finished squares.
- Pin them to a blocking board.
Let them dry fully before joining them. Acrylic yarn doesn’t need heavy blocking—light steaming is usually enough.
7. Can beginners try this project?
Yes, this project is beginner-friendly. The stitches involved are simple (slip knot, chain, double crochet), and the step-by-step instructions make it approachable for those new to crochet.
8. How do I care for the finished scarf?
Since it's made of acrylic yarn:
- Hand wash or use a gentle cycle with cool water.
- Avoid high heat when drying; lay it flat to air dry.
Proper care will help maintain the scarf's color and texture.
9. How do I handle mistakes when joining squares?
If you notice an error, unravel that section carefully using a yarn needle or crochet hook. Reattach the yarn and retry the join. Minor imperfections often won’t be noticeable in the final scarf!
10. Where can I share my finished scarf?
You can share your projects on social media using the hashtag #ElsbethMAL24. It's a great way to connect with other crocheters and inspire others. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook groups are ideal for showcasing your work.
Christa Patel is a passionate crochet designer, educator, and creator behind the popular blog The Secret Yarnery. With years of experience and a love for vibrant, easy-to-follow patterns, Christa aims to make crochet accessible and fun for everyone. From beginner-friendly tutorials to advanced techniques, she provides clear guidance to help crafters create stunning handmade pieces.
Christa's innovative approaches, like the Continuous Join As You Go (CJAYGO) method, simplify complex projects and make even intricate designs approachable. She specializes in granny squares, blankets, scarves, and other wearable art with modern, colorful twists.
When Christa isn’t crocheting, you’ll find her engaging with the crochet community, teaching workshops, or brainstorming her next creative project. Through her tutorials, patterns, and blog, she inspires others to pick up a hook and start their crochet journey.
Follow Christa’s latest creations, tips, and crochet ideas on The Secret Yarnery, or connect with her on social media for more crochet inspiration.