Wayfarer came from a simple desire to play with balance through the use of contrasting vertical and horizontal lines.  The scarf is a blend of two stitch families: Garter Stitch (seen on the right side of the piece), which creates horizontal ridges that directly contrast to the vertical element of slipped-stitch ridges (seen on the left side of the scarf).

The ridge-like vertical columns wander and play across a field of Garter Stitch creating geometric motifs that move and change at varying intervals over the piece’s length.  The scarf measures approximately 78″ after blocking, a generous length that invites a good number of wraps for volume around the neck.

The interesting thing about the asymmetrical motifs is that, depending on which way you wear Wayfarer (how many wraps, and where these wraps fall) you’ll see different parts of the pattern at different times.  It’s a simple concept but very pleasing to the eye (and the mind!).

I chose “Sap” for this project — one of the brightest and boldest members of Shelter’s palette – because I think it creates great visual ‘pop’ while drawing attention to the unique texture the scarf features. It also looks great with a classic brown leather trench coat, which in my book is always good enough reason for a color choice!

The photos above show the two main motifs that transform the balance between the horizontal and vertical ridges through gently curved, angular shapes. These shapes are achieved simply with different combinations of increases and decreases throughout the pattern.

This design has really become a personal favorite – then again, I’m a lover of simple geometric play so I guess that makes sense!  I blocked mine with blocking wires stretching it ever so slightly to create a flat and fluid fabric that shows off the motifs in a slightly more formal manner.  Less precise blocking will allow a more squishable texture, which is also fantastic.  Hey, you might just need two.