Buoy Kerchief by Elizabeth Smith

Buoy Kerchief

Knitting
June 2026
Worsted (9 wpi) ?
18 stitches and 40 rows = 4 inches
in Garter Stitch
US 7 - 4.5 mm
290 yards (265 m)
One Size
English
This pattern is available for $6.00 USD buy it now

Buoy Kerchief is a top-down triangle kerchief inspired by the colorful lobster buoys found along the Maine coast. It features simple garter stitch, bold stripes, a slip stitch edge and interesting shaping techniques. It’s both simple enough to be relaxing but engaging enough to keep your attention!

I used Berroco Pima 100 (a 100% cotton) so it would work well as a Summer accessory, and just 1 skein of each of the 2 colors. And although I designed this piece in such a way to work especially well for cotton yarn, you can definitely substitute for wool or any other fiber you like!

This pattern is part of my Water’s Edge mini collection. Patterns can be purchased separately or together as an ebook at a discounted price.

Pattern includes link to my online Buoy Kerchief Tips Page that includes:

  • Video lessons on how to work the the slip stitch edging and increase techniques.
  • Video lesson on how to join a new color as well as carry colors up.
  • Info on how to adjust the size or make it work for different weight yarns.
  • Other tips and tricks to help make your knitting experience enjoyable and successful (so it’s definitely beginner-friendly!)

PATTERN INFORMATION:

Finished Measurements:
• Center spine depth: approx 13”/33 cm
• Wingspan: approx 33”/84 cm

Gauge: 18 sts & 40 rows = 4”/10 cm in garter stitch after
blocking
Note: Exact gauge is not critical but it might affect your
finished measurements and yarn usage.

Yarn: Worsted-weight, shown in Pima 100 by Berroco
(100% pima cotton; 100g = 219 yds), broken down as follows:
MAIN COLOR (MC): approx 200 yards, 1 skein, shown in color Rye.
CONTRASTING COLOR (CC): approx 90 yards, 1 skein, shown in color Inferno.

Needles & Other Supplies:
• US 7/4.5 mm 32”/80 cm circ, or size needed to obtain gauge.
• 1 stitch marker.
• Locking stitch marker.
• Tapestry needle to weave in ends.