February 06, 2022 7 min read
If you’re looking for a fun, simple, and satisfying crochet project, you’re in for a treat! Today we’re diving into the Dirty Granny crochet scarf – an easy-to-make scarf using a one-row repeat that’s both relaxing and rewarding.
Whether you're a seasoned crochet pro or a total beginner, this scarf is an ideal project. You’ll learn how to make eye-catching stitch patterns and finish with a beautiful, cozy scarf.
In this tutorial, I walk you through making the scarf using Magic Glitz yarn, although you can choose different yarns if you prefer. If you want to follow along with my crochet scarf tutorial, find all the tips, tricks, and written patterns right here on my site.
Before we jump in, let's go over the materials:
For this scarf, I used Magic Glitz from Ice Yarns, which adds a subtle sparkle. If glitter isn’t your style, you can switch to Magic Light – it's the same yarn, just without the sparkle. In fact, you can use any yarn you like. Just make sure to check the hook size recommended on the label!
Using the proper hook size is critical for a successful project! For this scarf:
The following items really come in handy for tackling this project:
You can make this scarf in two sizes: a larger two-ball scarf or a smaller one-ball version. Here’s the breakdown:
Start by making a slip knot however you're used to doing it. Loop it onto your larger hook (the 5.5mm hook for the starting chain), and you’re good to go.
For the larger two-ball scarf, you'll need to chain 40 stitches. If you're making the smaller scarf, you'll start with chain 32. If you'd like to change the width of your scarf, simply add or subtract stitches in multiples of 8.
I recommend using stitch markers to keep things neat and easy to follow. After you chain your sets of 8, place stitch markers at each section of the chain. This trick really helps you keep track of your work! For the larger scarf, place 5 markers, and for the smaller scarf, use 4.
Once your foundation chain is complete, it’s time to work into the "camel bumps" or back loops of the chain. These bumps help keep the base of the scarf looking neat and uniform. The first camel bump is always right under your working yarn.
You’ll skip the first 5 chains and work your first double crochet into the sixth chain from the hook. This is where we start the repeating pattern.
This pattern uses two key stitch sets, which we'll alternate between:
Each row will follow this simple pattern—alternating between the glasses and olives from start to finish.
Once you've set up the initial "glass," you'll skip three chains and place the next olive in the following chain. Continue this same method—glass, skip 3, olive, skip 3—until you finish the foundation row.
To wrap up the first row, skip two chains and place one final double crochet into the very last chain. This keeps the scarf’s edge nice and neat.
Want a wider or narrower scarf? Not a problem! All you have to do is adjust the number of chains at the start. For wider scarves, add multiples of 8; for narrower ones, subtract by 8s.
To start Row 2, simply chain 3 and turn your work. Keep it simple—slide your hand under your working yarn, grab your project, and just flip it over.
Here comes the magic: For Row 2, you’re continuing the "glass-to-glass, olive-to-olive" pattern. Think of it as matching shapes on a puzzle. Glasses get stacked on glasses, and olives pile up on olives! Crochet two double crochets, chain two, and then another two double crochets into each "glass" space. Now you’ve formed a repeating solid stitch pattern.
For each glass, you're working into the chain-2 space created earlier. It's that easy! When you reach an olive, find the middle stitch—it's always the third stitch of the 5-double-crochet set—and put your new olive right there, creating another set of 5 double crochets.
Row 3 is just a repeat of Row 2. Start with a chain 3, then work your pattern the same way as before. Glasses into glasses, olives into olives.
This one-row repeat makes the scarf super simple to memorize. You don’t have to keep checking instructions once you’ve done it a few times!
As you continue working, make sure to count your stitches every so often to keep everything lined up just right. To maintain nice edges, always finish the row with 1 double crochet worked into the top of the turning chain from the previous row.
Once you’ve got the hang of Rows 2 and 3, keep going! Repeat the pattern until your scarf reaches your desired length, or until you’re out of yarn.
On the final row, instead of continuing with double crochets, you’re going to wrap things up with a neat row of single crochets. Start by chaining 1, then crochet one single crochet into each stitch along the row. In between the stitches, chain 3 to create little decorative loops along the top edge.
Once you’ve crocheted across the row, finish off by crocheting 1 single crochet into the turning chain’s top. Pull your yarn through and snug it down—you’re done crocheting!
The last steps are quick and easy. Cut the yarn, leaving a few inches to work with, and use a needle to sew in all your loose ends. Once those tails are tucked away, your scarf is ready to wear!
For more projects like this one, check out other crochet scarf patterns on my site, or explore ideas for beginner crochet patterns.
If you're swapping out yarn types, remember yarn weight and texture will affect how your scarf turns out. Both Magic Glitz and Magic Light are excellent options, but you can use any yarn that suits your style. If you change your yarn, use the hook size recommended on the label.
The 4.5mm hook is great for the body of the scarf. However, by starting with a 5.5mm hook for the foundation chain, you'll avoid having a tight base that could ruin the scarf’s drape.
Stitch markers are your best friend when it comes to keeping things organized. By marking your foundation chain in sets of 8, you'll be able to keep track of placement and make sure your stitches stay consistent throughout.
You can measure the scarf as you work to ensure your dimensions. A finished length of 42 inches is perfect for the larger scarf, while the one-ball version comes in at a cozy 54 inches.
If you're new to crochet, this scarf is one of the easiest patterns to follow. The one-row repeat is simple to memorize, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost in a long, confusing sequence. Keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to adjust the scarf to suit your style!
The Dirty Granny Crochet Scarf is a beautiful, practical project that’s both fun and fast. By using just a few simple stitches, you'll create something amazing in no time. Give it a try, and don’t forget to check out the other easy crochet patterns on my site for more ideas, tips, and inspiration.
Happy crocheting, and stay hooked!
For the "Dirty Granny Crochet Scarf," the tutorial uses Magic Glitz yarn from Ice Yarns, which adds a subtle sparkle to your scarf. However, if you prefer a non-sparkly look, Magic Light is also a great alternative. You can choose any yarn that suits your style as long as you match the recommended hook size on the label.
Stitch markers are essential for keeping your foundation chain organized and making sure your stitches remain consistent throughout the project. By marking sections of 8 stitches, you'll easily track your progress and maintain uniformity.
Adjusting the scarf’s width is simple. For a wider scarf, add extra chains in increments of 8. For a narrower version, subtract chains in increments of 8.
You start with a 5.5mm hook for the foundation chain to prevent a tight base, which could affect how the scarf drapes. The 4.5mm hook is used for the body of the scarf, ensuring the stitches are dense and even.
Once you reach your desired length, conclude with a row of single crochets to create a neat finish. Don't forget to leave a tail of yarn for sewing in the ends with a needle.
Yes, you can use a different yarn weight, but remember, it will affect the texture and size of your scarf. Adjust the hook size accordingly based on the yarn label recommendations.
Absolutely! The "Dirty Granny Crochet Scarf" is beginner-friendly thanks to its straightforward one-row repeat. It’s easy to memorize and doesn’t require complex stitches.
Christa Patel is a seasoned crochet expert and brand ambassador for Ice Yarns, with over a decade of experience in crafting unique and engaging crochet patterns. Passionate about teaching and sharing her love for crochet, she has built a vibrant community of craft enthusiasts through her detailed tutorials and creative designs. Having collaborated with various yarn brands, Christa brings a deep understanding of different materials and techniques, making her tutorials accessible and enjoyable for both beginners and advanced crafters!
Comments will be approved before showing up.
November 20, 2024 7 min read
November 17, 2024 7 min read
November 10, 2024 6 min read
Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more …
Everything I need in one place to be creative and I can photocopy extras of the pages I use most to customise my planning. I use it as my main diary, even for work and upcoming events. It inspires me to focus on my creative pursuits too. Love it!
Love this item going to put little gifts in it on the tree ,just tying in tails.
I am really impressed with the quality of this written pattern as well as the video tutorial. Both are clear and detailed. I am not done with my striped cardigan yet, but it's coming together nicely (though I'm not so sure about my choice to use up yarn I already have with individual stripes!)... so many tails to sew in!! My advice would be to buy self-striping yarn like she does in the video.
Easy to follow pattern! Super base for the rectangle or other larger projects.
Keep the tutorials coming and with written and visual instructions to follow along so beginners can learn. Thank you for your help.
I think there is a mistake in the written pattern. It says to do a half double crochet twice, when it is only supposed to be once
Thank you to the Secret Yarnery for this pattern! Can't go wrong with this one, it really is easy and fast to make - I'm on my 2nd one already and plan to do more! You really don't need to look any further if you're looking to make a scarf - you will not be disappointed. In fact, you'll have fun making it (I did!) Happy crocheting!
Thank you for writing a pattern that is amazingly easy to follow and help me produce a stunning piece!!
Wow! I can't believe I made this beautiful toran. Well, yes I can since I followed this easy pattern! Again, wow! How fun was this to make! Super-duper easy to make and you can be as creative as you like by choosing colours, placement of colours to form pattern(s), number of leaves, etc. so it truly can be personalized for any occasion! Love the Secret Yarnery patterns and tutorials - thank you so much for your time, efforts, and for sharing your talent with the rest of us in the world!
The best pattern & tutorial I have ever come across. Loved how you used the needle to clearly point out where the stitch was to go. Have made 3 hats already. Many more on my to do list. Thanks so much
The yarn world is vast & has several yarn naming & grading systems. This chart really helps to get the right weight of yarn, size of needle, gauge & yardage/meterage when using patterns or yarns from other countries. And it covers both knit & crochet. Thank you for putting together this very useful tool, Secret Yarnery.
I love this pattern. Very easy to follow and fun to make.
Glad I found this pattern. I love it.
It was very easy to do. I have already made 4