This vintage scarf alternates rows of compact three-double-crochet shells with rows of star stitch. The result is a richly textured fabric with straight edges and an easy-to-repeat two-row rhythm.
Vintage Instructions
Make a foundation chain to the desired width of the scarf.
Row 1: Work 2 double crochet in the 3rd stitch from the hook. Work a shell of 3 double crochet in every 3rd chain stitch. Finish with 1 double crochet at the edge to keep it straight. Chain 3 and turn.
Row 2 — Star stitch: Insert the hook into the first of the 3 turning chains and draw up a loose loop. Keeping it on the hook, insert the hook into the back loop at the top of the edge double crochet and draw up another loop. Continue across the 3 double crochet of the first shell, taking the back loop each time, until there are 6 loops on the hook. Yarn over and draw through all loops, then make a tight chain to close the star.
For each following star, pick up the first loop just below the eye of the previous star, the second loop below it where the previous star’s final loop was made, and the remaining loops across the top of the next shell. Close with a tight chain.
Keep all drawn-up loops equal and loose. After closing each star, allow the loop on the hook to remain relaxed before beginning the next star so the work does not pull.
Finish the row with 1 double crochet at the edge. Chain 3 and turn.
Row 3: Work a shell of 3 double crochet in the eye of each star, with 1 double crochet at the end.
Row 4: Repeat the star-stitch row.
Continue alternating shell and star-stitch rows until the scarf reaches the desired length.
Crochet Board Editorial Note
The original pattern does not prescribe a fixed width or length, making this an unusually adaptable vintage scarf. Make a small swatch first because star stitch can vary considerably with individual tension.
Vintage Source
Publication: Priscilla Wool Crochet Book
Editor: Lola Burks Hettich
Publisher: The Priscilla Publishing Company, Boston
Year: 1912
Original printed page: 23 (scan pages 26–27)
Rights: Public-domain historical work. The Library of Congress states that books in this collection are in the public domain and are free to use and reuse.