The Dune Drift Tie: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Tunisian-Inspired Striped Necktie
The Dune Drift Tie: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Tunisian-Inspired Striped Necktie
Elevate your accessory game with this modern, textured necktie that blends the structural beauty of Tunisian crochet with the soft drape of knitting. The alternating stripes of garter and slipped stitch create a mesmerizing, sand-dune effect that is both sophisticated and cozy. This unisex pattern is perfect for intermediate beginners looking to add a unique, handmade touch to their wardrobe. The earthy color palette and clean, braided edges make it a standout piece for any occasion.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Category 4). Shown in: Color A (Sand Dune): 50g/100m; Color B (Driftwood): 50g/100m. Approx 100g total.
- Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) knitting needles, or size to obtain gauge.
- Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving ends.
- Gauge: 20 stitches x 28 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in garter stitch, blocked.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Finished Dimensions
Approx 2.5 inches (6.5 cm) wide x 55 inches (140 cm) long, adjustable.
Abbreviations
- CO: Cast on
- K: Knit
- Sl1 wyif: Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in front
- P: Purl
- BO: Bind off
Pattern Notes
- The tie is worked flat from top to bottom.
- The slipped stitch creates a clean, braided edge.
- To adjust length, work more or fewer repeats of the stripe pattern.
Instructions
Foundation
CO 13 stitches.
Row 1 (Right Side)
K1, Sl1 wyif, K9, Sl1 wyif, K1.
Row 2 (Wrong Side)
K1, Sl1 wyif, K9, Sl1 wyif, K1.
Stripe Pattern (Repeat for desired length)
Stripe A (Sand Dune)
Work Rows 1-2 for 10 times (20 rows total).
Stripe B (Driftwood)
- Row 1 (RS): K1, Sl1 wyif, K9, Sl1 wyif, K1.
- Row 2 (WS): K1, Sl1 wyif, P9, Sl1 wyif, K1.
- Row 3 (RS): K1, Sl1 wyif, K9, Sl1 wyif, K1.
- Row 4 (WS): K1, Sl1 wyif, K9, Sl1 wyif, K1.
Repeat
Repeat Stripe A and Stripe B alternately until tie measures approximately 54 inches (137 cm) from cast-on edge, ending with a complete Stripe A.
Final Row (WS)
K1, Sl1 wyif, K9, Sl1 wyif, K1.
Bind Off (RS)
K1, Sl1 wyif, *K1, pass previous stitch over* repeat across, ending with K1. Cut yarn, pull through last loop.
Finishing
Weave in all ends. Block gently to even out stitches and set the fabric. The tie will have a slight bias due to the slipped stitches, which gives it a beautiful, organic drape.
