A scarf worked entirely through back loops only is the kind of project that teaches you a fundamental skill while producing something genuinely wearable.
The back-loop-only half double crochet creates horizontal ridges across the fabric. Each row leaves a visible line where the front loops sit unused, building a ribbed texture that's both decorative and functional—the ridges trap warm air between them, making the scarf warmer than a flat-stitch equivalent.
This scarf is a long rectangle. No increases. No decreases. No shaping of any kind. Just row after row of the same simple stitch until the scarf reaches your desired width. The repetition is meditative, and the fabric grows quickly in half double crochet.
Tassels at both ends add weight that helps the scarf drape properly and stay in place around your neck. They're optional but recommended—the swing of the tassels gives the scarf movement and a finished, polished look.
Why You'll Love This Crochet Scarf
The stitch pattern couldn't be simpler.
Half double crochet through back loops only. That's the entire project. If you can work a half double crochet and identify the back loop, you have all the skills this scarf requires. There's no counting beyond making sure your stitch count stays consistent.
The fabric is genuinely warm.
Back-loop-only creates a denser fabric than standard half double crochet because the stitches compress slightly against each other. Combined with worsted weight yarn and an appropriate hook, the scarf blocks wind and traps body heat effectively.
The length is fully customizable.
The foundation chain determines the scarf length. Chain more for a longer scarf that wraps multiple times. Chain fewer for a shorter, cowl-like length. The row count determines the width—more rows make a wider scarf that covers more of the chest.
Tassels use almost no additional yarn but add significant visual impact. Cut strands double your desired tassel length, fold in half, pull through the scarf edge, and tighten. Each tassel takes about thirty seconds to attach.
Materials Needed
- 140 grams / 250 yards of worsted weight (#4) yarn
- 6.0 mm (J-10) crochet hook
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle
Brava in Wine is the yarn shown. This is a soft acrylic available from WeCrochet at about $3.99 per 218-yard skein. One skein covers the scarf with yardage to spare.
For a wool version with more warmth, Cascade 220 ($8 per 220 yards) in a deep red or burgundy works beautifully. One skein is enough for a generous scarf.
The 6.0 mm hook is slightly larger than standard worsted weight recommendations, which gives the fabric better drape. The scarf should fold and wrap comfortably, not stand stiffly away from the neck.
Best Yarn Choices for a Ribbed Scarf
Worsted weight acrylic is the practical choice for an everyday scarf.
It's machine washable, affordable, and comes in literally hundreds of colors. Brava, Red Heart Super Saver, and Caron Simply Soft all work well. Simply Soft produces a drapier, silkier scarf. Red Heart produces a sturdier, more structured one.
Wool and wool blends add genuine winter warmth. The natural crimp in wool fibers traps more heat than acrylic, and wool continues to insulate even when damp. Wool-Ease ($5.99 per 197 yards) blends wool with acrylic for warmth plus easy care.
For a luxury version, Malabrigo Rios ($16 per 210 yards) in a deep red or wine colorway creates a scarf that feels like cashmere against the neck. One skein is enough. If you're comparing yarn options, my beginner yarn guide covers fiber properties in detail.
Gauge, Size Guide & Must-Have Tools
Gauge: 10 rows of 16 half double crochets in back loops only = 4 inches square.
Gauge isn't critical for a scarf. What matters is that the fabric feels good—soft, drapey, and comfortable against your neck.
Finished dimensions (adjustable):
- Width: about 4.7 inches
- Length: about 65.4 inches including tassels
For a wider scarf, add rows. For a longer scarf, add chains to the foundation. The pattern ratio is straightforward.
Must-have tools:
- 6.0 mm hook: Comfortable grip for long rows.
- Tapestry needle: For weaving ends.
Pattern Notes & Tips Before You Start
Don't miss the last stitch of each row. It's the most common mistake in back-loop-only work—the final stitch can be harder to see because it sits slightly lower than the others. Count your stitches every few rows until you're confident you're catching every one.
If your edges are slanting inward, you're missing stitches at the ends. Place a stitch marker in the first and last stitch of each row to help identify them.
The chain-1 at the start of each row does not count as a stitch. Work your first half double crochet into the first actual stitch of the row below.
Tassels are made from 6-inch strands folded in half. For thicker tassels, use multiple strands at once. Three strands folded in half gives you six tails per tassel. The pattern includes 42 total strands, spaced evenly across both ends.
Abbreviations Explained
- blo – back loop only: Insert hook under only the back loop (the one farther from you).
- ch – chain: Yarn over, pull through loop.
- hdc – half double crochet: Yarn over, insert hook, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through all three loops.
Step-by-Step Back-Loop Ribbed Scarf
Foundation and First Row
Foundation: Chain 251.
This chain count creates a scarf approximately 65 inches long. For a shorter scarf, chain fewer. For a longer scarf, chain more. The chain should span from fingertip to fingertip with arms outstretched for a classic wrap scarf length.
Row 1: Hdc in the 2nd chain from hook and in each chain across. (250 stitches)
Count your stitches. The foundation row sets the stitch count for every subsequent row.
Building the Body
Rows 2–12: Chain 1, turn. Hdc in the back loop only of each stitch across. (250 stitches)
Twelve rows create a scarf about 4.7 inches wide. For a wider scarf that covers more of the chest, add rows. For a narrower, more decorative scarf, work fewer rows.
Fasten off. Weave in the ends.
Tassels (Optional)
Cut 42 strands of yarn, each 6 inches long. If you want longer tassels, cut longer strands (a little over double your desired finished tassel length).
Using 3 strands at a time, fold the bundle in half. Insert your hook through the scarf edge where you want the tassel. Loop the folded midpoint onto the hook and pull through the fabric. Grab the loose tails with the hook and pull through the loop. Tighten.
Space 7 tassels evenly along each short edge of the scarf. Trim any uneven ends.
Easy Variations & Custom Ideas
Extra-long scarf: Chain 351 for a scarf that wraps three times around the neck.
Cowl version: Chain 80, work the same rows, and sew the short ends together for an infinity scarf.
Striped: Change colors every 3 rows. The horizontal stripes align with the ribbed texture beautifully.
No tassels: Skip the tassels entirely for a clean, minimalist look.
Common Troubleshooting and Fixes
Edges are slanting: You're missing the last stitch of each row. Place a stitch marker in the final stitch. For more edge help, see my guide on fixing uneven edges.
Fabric is too stiff: Your tension may be too tight or your hook too small. Try a 6.5 mm hook for a drapier fabric.
Tassels are uneven: Trim them all to the same length after attaching. Use a ruler for precision.
Ribbing doesn't look defined: Make sure you're consistently working into the back loop only. Working into both loops even occasionally flattens the ribbed effect.
Final Thoughts
A ribbed scarf is a winter wardrobe staple that never goes out of style.
It's the project you reach for when you want something meditative—long rows of a single stitch that build into something warm and beautiful. No counting. No shaping. Just the rhythm of hook and yarn.
Make one in wine for a classic look, then make another in a bright color for dreary days.
Tag me if you post yours. Winter scarves always look so cozy in a feed.
