Pattern Spotlight: The VL Scarf (Tunisian)

3 days ago
3 min read

The Tunisian version of the VL Scarf uses the same fiber pairing as the rest of the VL Tunisian Collection, suri held double alongside a coordinating DK weight yarn, but the Tunisian construction gives the fabric a different character than the crochet or knit versions. It is denser and more structured, with a surface texture that comes from the Tunisian stitches themselves rather than from elaborate stitch work. The result is a scarf that feels substantial and looks thoughtfully made.

PIN NOW, READ LATER

Three size options, a cowl, an infinity scarf, and a flat scarf, give you room to choose the format that suits your preferences and your yarn quantities. And the intarsia colorwork sections are written to be as approachable as possible, which makes this a practical first colorwork project for Tunisian crocheters who have been curious about the technique.

About the Design

The VL Scarf comes in three sizes: a cowl at 10 x 25 inches, an infinity scarf at 7 x 58 inches, and a flat scarf at 7 x 80 inches. It uses suri held double alongside a coordinating DK weight yarn with intarsia colorwork sections. Intermediate skill level. Part of the VL Tunisian Collection, coordinating with the VL Hat, Ear Warmer, and Shawl.

Let's Talk Suri

Suri alpaca has long, silky fibers that give it a luminous drape and a soft halo that sets it apart from most fibers you might have worked with. Because the fibers are smooth rather than crimped, suri does not have the elasticity of wool, but what it gives you in return is a flowing, light fabric that catches the light beautifully and feels luxurious against skin.

In this pattern, suri is held double, meaning you work with two strands at the same time. This gives the fabric enough body to hold its shape while preserving the characteristic softness and halo. The main thing to keep in mind when working with suri is tension: it does not spring back the way wool does, so a relaxed, consistent tension will give you the best results. Once you find your rhythm with it, suri is one of the most enjoyable fibers to work with, and the finished fabric genuinely cannot be replicated with other fiber types.

Let's Talk Intarsia

The colorwork in this pattern uses intarsia, which means you work with separate lengths of yarn for each color section rather than carrying one strand across the back of the fabric. The color change happens just once per row, which keeps the technique simple and manageable from the very first repeat. The result is clean, polished color areas with no floats on the wrong side, which gives the finished fabric a professional look from both directions.

If you have not done intarsia before, this is a very approachable introduction. The pattern explains the technique clearly, and the color changes follow a predictable structure so there are no surprises once you settle into the rhythm. By the time you finish you will have both a beautiful finished piece and a technique that opens up a whole range of other colorwork options.