Malabrigo quickies: Twilight Serenity Scarf
Our weather here in Texas is teasing us with warmer temperatures and sunshine between gray, cold, and rainy days. This month’s quickies project, Twilight Serenity Scarf, is the perfect antidote and accessory to pick in case you are also experiencing weather that can’t quite seem to make up its mind. This month’s featured designer, Takako, is no stranger to Malabrigo as she designed the KAL pattern Long Journey Shawl for last year’s KAL. She is a Japanese designer who is currently based in California. She began knitting in 2013 and has an impressive catalog of over 140 designs.
The Twilight Serenity Scarf is knit in Malabrigo’s Ultimate Sock. This design captures the serene palette of a setting sun in a trapezoidal shape. It interplays garter edges, block stitches, and crossed cables, offering the perfect pattern for an intermediate knitter. The sample is shown in the Rosalinda colorway. Takako generously took the time to answer some questions about this design and her design process, and we are thrilled to share them with you today!
1: What is your favorite part of your Quickies design and why?
Designing with limited yarn boosts my creativity, an experience I cherish. Using Malabrigo Ultimate Sock, I’ve explored new techniques and appreciated its quality. I often repurpose leftover yarn, leading to unique, eco-friendly designs—a rewarding practice. I was proud to join the Malabrigo Quickies Project last April and am thrilled to participate again this year.
2: What should knitters pay attention to when working this pattern? Do you have any tips or tricks to make knitting this pattern easier?
Knitters should pay close attention to managing the increased stitches, especially when transitioning from the Cable to the Block pattern, as this has been confusing. Thanks to feedback from test knitters, I’ve detailed instructions for each row to clarify these transitions. However, if difficulties arise, I recommend referring to the photos and visiting the project pages of our test knitters on Ravelry.
3: What do you think knitters will enjoy the most about this project?
Knitters will likely appreciate the satisfying texture and color interplay and the engaging pattern shifts between the Cable and Block designs in this scarf, making the knitting process both exciting and enjoyable.
4: What does your design process look like?
My design began with considering the limited amount of yarn, which led me to create a scarf. I aimed to design a shape that would be easy to wrap around the neck. To showcase the hues of the yarn, I chose a simple knit texture but wanted to add uniqueness, so I incorporated Cable and Block patterns. I finished the edges with a garter stitch to ensure they lay flat. Additionally, I crafted the pattern to allow for easy size adjustments for the scarf.
5: Was there any particular inspiration you had when creating this piece?
When I decided to create a scarf, I was inspired by the chic, tapered ends of the iconic Hermès Twilly, which fall beautifully when wrapped around the neck. I wanted stitches that would look elegant once draped for the pattern, so I chose Cable and Block patterns. These are my favorites and are often featured in my previous designs.
6: What impact does the color of this project have on you? Did you make design choices based on the colorway name?
When envisioning the design, I wanted to use a gradient of similar hues. The color I used, Rosalinda, matched my vision perfectly. After completing the sample, it struck me that the color embodied Twilight Serenity; which inspired me to choose the pattern’s name based on the colorway.
7: What is the one thing you wish people knew about you as a designer?
I want many knitters to know about my designs. They are basic and easy to follow, so they are available for all levels of knitters.
You can find this pattern on Ravelry at https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/twilight-serenity-scarf
Takako is offering a 20% off release promotion until March 24 th , and the discount will be automatically applied!
You can find more of her work at:
IG: @takakoob
Facebook Group: Designs by Takako
Ravelry ID: takakoob