Little Red's Forest Walk Pocket Scarf Free Knitting Pattern – Hooded Cowl with Secret Pocket

Little Red's Forest Walk Pocket Scarf: A Storybook Knitting Adventure

Imagine wrapping yourself in a cozy, fairytale-inspired accessory that's as practical as it is charming. Little Red's Forest Walk Pocket Scarf is a hooded cowl with a hidden pocket, knit in one piece with simple stitches. This pattern is perfect for intermediate beginners who want to create something magical and functional. The rich crimson red yarn pops against any winter coat, while the cream-colored pocket flap and ties add a delightful storybook touch. Whether you're heading out for a woodland stroll or just running errands, this scarf will keep you warm and make you smile.

This free knitting pattern is designed to be approachable, with clear instructions and minimal shaping. The hood is worked flat from the top down, then the scarf body flows seamlessly from it. The secret pocket is knit separately and sewn in, making it easy to achieve a professional finish. Let's dive into this enchanting project!

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather these supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in deep red (MC) – approximately 350g, and cream (CC) – approximately 50g. Choose a soft, pliable yarn for comfort.
• Needles: US 8 (5mm) knitting needles – straight or circular (worked flat).
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving ends and sewing, stitch markers, and a stitch holder or waste yarn.
• Optional: One small wooden button for the pocket flap.

Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Always knit a gauge swatch to ensure your finished scarf matches the intended size.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is worked flat in one piece from the hood down. The pocket is knit separately and sewn on. Use MC for the main body and CC for the pocket trim and ties. Follow these detailed steps carefully, and you'll have a beautiful pocket scarf in no time.

Knitting the Hood

With MC, cast on 80 stitches.

Row 1 (Right Side): Knit all stitches.

Row 2 (Wrong Side): Purl all stitches.

Repeat Rows 1-2 until the piece measures 9 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a wrong-side row. This creates the main body of the hood.

Shaping the Top of the Hood:

Next Row (Right Side): Knit 2 together (k2tog) across all stitches. You will now have 40 stitches remaining.

Work in stockinette stitch (knit on RS, purl on WS) for 2 inches, ending with a wrong-side row. This gathers the top of the hood for a rounded, cozy shape.

Creating the Neck and Scarf Body

Next Row (Right Side): K1, make one (M1) by lifting the bar between stitches and knitting into the back of it, knit to the last stitch, M1, K1. You now have 42 stitches.

Continue in stockinette stitch, increasing 1 stitch at each end every 4th row (by working K1, M1, knit to last stitch, M1, K1) until you have 60 stitches total. This gently flares the scarf body for a comfortable fit around the shoulders.

Work even in stockinette stitch until the scarf measures 20 inches from the hood shaping, ending with a wrong-side row. This is the main length of the scarf that wraps around your neck.

Forming the Pocket Opening

Next Row (Right Side): Knit 20 stitches, place the next 20 stitches on a stitch holder or waste yarn, knit the remaining 20 stitches. You will now work each side separately.

Left Side: Work the 20 stitches on your needle in stockinette stitch for 4 inches, ending with a wrong-side row. Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail, and place these stitches on a holder.

Right Side: Rejoin MC to the remaining 20 stitches on your needle (the ones you just knit). Work in stockinette stitch for 4 inches, ending with a wrong-side row. Cut the yarn, leaving a tail, and place these stitches on a holder.

Knitting the Pocket Lining

With MC, cast on 20 stitches.

Work in stockinette stitch for 4 inches, ending with a wrong-side row. Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail (about 12 inches) for sewing.

Using the tapestry needle, sew the pocket lining to the inside of the scarf, matching the opening edges. This creates a hidden pocket for your hands or small treasures.

Resuming the Scarf Body

With the right side facing you, knit across the 20 left-side stitches from the holder, then knit across the 20 right-side stitches from the holder. You now have 40 stitches total on your needle.

Continue in stockinette stitch for 6 more inches, ending with a wrong-side row. This completes the lower portion of the scarf.

Bind off all stitches loosely. Weave in the ends securely.

Adding the Pocket Flap (Optional but Cute)

With CC, cast on 20 stitches.

Work in garter stitch (knit every row) for 2 inches. This creates a textured, sturdy flap.

Bind off all stitches. Sew the flap over the pocket opening, leaving the top edge open so you can still access the pocket. If desired, sew a small wooden button to the flap for a decorative touch.

Making the Ties

With CC, make two twisted cords or I-cords, each 12 inches long. To make a twisted cord, cut three strands of yarn twice the desired length, fold them in half, and twist until tight, then knot the ends. Attach one tie to each side of the hood at the neck edge, where the hood meets the scarf body.

Finishing Touches

Weave in all remaining ends with the tapestry needle. Block the scarf gently to shape, laying it flat and misting with water. Allow it to dry completely. If you added a button, ensure it's securely attached.

Your Little Red's Forest Walk Pocket Scarf is complete! Slip your hands into the hidden pocket, pull up the hood, and enjoy your storybook adventure. This pattern is a wonderful way to practice increases, working with holders, and simple seaming—all while creating a stunning, wearable piece. Happy knitting!