This free ripple scarf crochet pattern is a one-skein wonder that’s easy enough for beginners! The simple pattern uses double crochet stitches with a few increases and decreases to create the pretty wavy ripple design.
Using a self-striping yarn, like Lion Brand’s Mandala, makes this crochet scarf even easier because you don’t need to fuss with changing colors. Just one ball of yarn creates all those beautiful color changes for you!
I love the warm autumn colors of this scarf, but you can easily choose a different colorway to make it your own. The classic ripple design works well for men and women alike, making this an easy crochet scarf to add to your fall wardrobe or handmade gifting list.
Prefer a different color combination? Try my 3 Color Crochet Scarf Pattern for another way to use the ripple stitch.
Find more of my free crochet scarf patterns here.
About This Ripple Scarf Crochet Pattern
This easy crochet scarf is worked in rows using a repeating ripple stitch pattern that creates three ripples across the width of the scarf. Simple increases form the peaks while decreases create the valleys, giving the scarf its classic wavy design.
The pattern uses DK weight self-striping yarn, so the color changes happen naturally as you crochet. The finished scarf measures approximately 9 inches wide by 72 inches long, but you can easily adjust the length by working more or fewer rows.
Ripple Scarf Materials
- Approximately 568 yds of self-striping DK-weight yarn (such as Lion Brand’s Mandala yarn)
- US G-6 / 4 mm crochet hook
- Scissors and yarn needle
Gauge: Approximately 18–19 stitches per 4 in. (10 cm)
Finished size: Approximately 9 in. × 72 in. (23 cm × 183 cm)
This free crochet pattern is written in U.S. crochet terms and abbreviations. Stitch counts are provided throughout the pattern to help you keep on track.
Helpful Crochet Resources: Refer to my Crochet Abbreviations and U.S. to U.K. Crochet Conversion Chart as you work through the pattern.
You can also purchase a convenient, ad-free PDF download from my blog store here.
Crochet Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- dc – double crochet
- 3dctog – double crochet 3 stitches together
- rep – repeat
- st(s) – stitch(es)
Pattern notes: This pattern is written in U.S. crochet terms. The beginning chain 3 counts as a stitch where indicated.
Ripple Scarf Crochet Pattern Instructions
To adjust the width: Start with a multiple of 14 plus 3 chains.
Chain 45.
Row 1: Work 2 dc in 4th ch from hook (skipped chains count as st), *1 dc in each of the next 3 ch, [3dctog over next 3 chains] twice, 1 dc in each of the next 3 ch**, 3 dc in each of the next 2 ch, rep from * across, ending last repeat at **, work 3 dc in last ch, turn – 42 sts. (Makes 3 ripples)
Row 2: Chain 3 (counts as st), work 2 dc in first st (the st at base of chain 3), *1 dc in each of the next 3 sts, [3dctog over next 3 sts] twice, 1 dc in each of the next 3 sts**, 3 dc in each of the next 2 sts, rep from * across, ending last repeat at **, work 3 dc in last st (the turning ch from previous row), turn – 42 sts.
Rows 3 through 110: Repeat Row 2 for all rows or until desired length is reached.
Fasten off, weave in ends.
Crochet Ripple Stitch Chart
Click here to reference Crochet Stitch Chart Symbols.
More Free Crochet Scarf Patterns
If you enjoyed making this scarf, here are a few more free crochet scarf and wrap patterns you might like:
- Quick and Comfy Scarf
- 3 Color Crochet Scarf Pattern
- How to Crochet a Basic Scarf for Beginners {Step-by-Step Tutorial}
- Transitions Wrap Pattern
Find Community
I would love to see your finished projects; share them with me on Instagram, Facebook, or the Petals to Picots Community.
Qué bonita la bufanda!!!
I’m new to crochet (just taught myself about a month ago) and this is only my second project (I’m almost done – took two cakes of lion brand ferris wheel). It took me three tries to get it right but now it’s second nature and I love how relaxing it is to go along the ripples. Thank you for this pattern and for teaching me about stitch chart symbols.
Why does it say to decrease 1 in next three stitch three times (once as “decrease 1 in next three stitch twice” and the next line as “decrease 1 in next three stitch” Why wouldn’t you write it has decrease 9 times or decrease 1 in next three stitch three times? I’m so confused please help
I have started the this scarf 4 times now and end up the same place. to the point that I checked off the pattern as I stitched it. I am always 6 chain stiches short. What am I doing wrong?
I should say that I am working (trying to) the autumn ripple scarf.