1) Alpaca scarf

This alpaca scarf sounds expensive, but Kirstie McLeod has designed it to use just one ball of yarn.

“It’s a luxury yarn,” Kirstie says, “but you’ll find scarves on the high street costing more to buy than this does to make, and they won’t be made of British-grown pure alpaca!”

Download the free pattern here.

2) Lacy snood

This lacy snood is a perfect stashbusting project and great for last-minute gifts too, as it uses just a single ball of 4 ply.

Download the free pattern here.

3) Directional Blocks scarf

This scarf uses the unique characteristics of self-striping yarn, to create a scarf with directional blocks.

This scarf is made by knitting a narrow center panel and then adding long strips along the sides, and finishing with small strips at each narrow end.The technique is somewhat like making a quilt, and can be used with self-striping yarn as shown, but would also be very effective with different colours.

Find the free pattern here. 

4) Lace chevron scarf

This airy chevron lace scarf by Rosee Woodland is so versatile: long, light and delicate, it’s perfect for adding a subtle layer of warmth to any outfit.

You can download the pattern here. 

5) Lace shawl

If tackling a complex lace pattern in a fine yarn puts you off knitting shawls, try this one by Kirstie McLeod.

This shawl uses classic construction techniques, but is worked in DK yarn for an easier knit and a thicker, warmer garment at the end. 

Find the free pattern here.