Hot Frosty Scarf Knitting Pattern
My Hot Frosty Scarf Knitting Pattern is a replica design inspired by the garment featured in the popular romantic holiday movie. When I first watched Hot Frosty, I loved that a magical knitted scarf plays such a meaningful role in the story.
Table of Contents
Hot Frosty’s Magical Scarf
In Netflix’s Hot Frosty, a magical scarf becomes the heart of the story. Kathy learns that good things come to you when you’re out in the cold after sharing her gifted knitwear with a snowman named Jack during the holiday season.
Its cozy, textured design felt like it belonged in my knitting projects, too. So, I set out to recreate my version of the scarf. Knitting it up in its vibrant red hue sparks that festive holiday feeling within, which I’m excited to share with you!
Holiday movies are perfect when I’m in the mood for a simple, sweet, and predictable plot. As a knitter, I love that it was the power of a scarf that sparked second chances, helping our main characters find their happily-ever-after. (but, of course!)
Seeded Rib Stitch Pattern
After pausing and rewinding to carefully analyze all the close-up shots of the scarf in the film, I deduced it was an easy ribbing knit pattern. Then once the character Deputy Sheriff Ed Schatz mentioned the scarf looks to be a “rib or a seed stitch,” my guess was corroborated.
In full detective mode, I then added a community quiz on my YouTube channel. The majority of knitters surveyed agree that my top choice from my Knit Stitch Pattern Book is indeed the best match!
The Seeded Rib Stitch Pattern creates thick, textured rows with a simple mix of knits and purls, making it perfect for beginners. This stitch is stretchy yet holds its shape thanks to the seed stitches nestled between the ribbing. It’s a popular choice because it naturally lies flat, eliminating the need for extra finishing work.
Knit Stitch Pattern Book
Love easy knitting? Get 50 stitch patterns from my Knit Stitch Pattern Book available in both print and digital formats.
Scarf Pattern Dimension
Pattern Size: This full-sized adult knitted scarf size is designed at 10 inches (25 cm) wide and 70 inches (178 cm) long.
Width: This is a replica design, inspired by the movie Hot Frosty. When the thrift shop owner Mel gifts Kathy with the deep red textured scarf, it looks to be of standard-sized width. However, while Jack adorns the scarf, it is usually folded lengthwise, creating a thinner width.
Length: In the movie, Jack’s scarf looks to be exceptionally long at over 90 inches (229 cm) in size. While draped over his neck, it hangs to the ground! If you wish to knit it up similarly, add another 128 yards (117 meters) of yarn to your shopping cart. However, if this will be a scarf for everyday use, the recommended 70 inch (178 cm) length is a comfortable size for most adults.
Knitted Bottom-Up
This scarf pattern is knitted bottom-up from the cast on edge.
Reversible Pattern
This Seeded Rib texture is a reversible pattern, which is perfect for scarves. The texture on both sides, the right and the wrong, are identical. However you wear your scarf, the beautiful design will be displayed.
Easy to Memorize
This pattern uses a simple 2-row repeat that’s easy to memorize after a few repetitions. Once you get the hang of it, you won’t need to check the written instructions anymore. It’s the perfect project to take with you and knit on the go!
No Blocking Required
Unlike some of my knitting projects, this one easily lays flat and won’t curl, so blocking isn’t necessary. Skip the extra step or block lightly if you prefer—a beautiful finish is guaranteed either way.
Knitting Supplies
Yarn: Bulky Weight #5 • 500 yards (457 meters)
Feel free to select any fiber and colors of your choice.
Sample Scarf: Cascade 128 Superwash in Color Ruby 893. If knitting with this suggested yarn, you’ll need four of the 100 g yarn skeins. Be prepared to wind the skeins of yarn into balls, as well.
To purchase the same Cascade 128, my search shows that Missouri Star Quilt Co. currently has the best online shopping price . It is also available for online purchase at Angelica’s Yarn Store, Benzie Design, StevenBe, and Wool & Co.
Yarn Substitution Recommendations
- Ewe Ewe Yarns – affiliate link (Red Poppy 20)
- Berroco Vintage Chunky (Sour Cherry 6134)
- Cascade Yarns Pacific Chunky (Beet 53)
- Deluxe Bulky Superwash by Universal Yarn (Christmas Red)
- Knit Picks Swish Bulky (Serrano)
- Wool of the Andes Bulky (Cranberry 28210)
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Suggested Knitting Needles: Straight Size 10 US (6.0 mm) 12″ or longer
Recommended: Clover Takumi Bamboo
Select needles long enough to hold all stitches for the width of your scarf.
Reading Light (optional to help see darker yarn shades)
Video Tutorial
Scarf Pattern Instructions
Enjoy my free pattern instructions below.
You may also purchase the ad-free printable pdf from my Studio Knit Shop.
Techniques
- CO = Cast On Long Tail
- Cast Off
- K = Knit Stitch
- P = Purl Stitch
- Weave in Yarn Tails
- * * = Repeat Pattern Between Asterisks
Gauge Swatch
Because this is a one-size accessory, achieving the exact gauge isn’t critical. That said, if you’d like to ensure your project meets your expectations, feel free to knit a gauge swatch and adjust as needed.
18 stitches and 18 rows = 4 x 4 inches in the Seeded Rib Stitch
Bulky weight (#5) yarn • Size 10 US needles
Cast On: Multiples of 4, plus 3
- Row 1 (Right Side): * K3, P1 *, K3
- Row 2 (Wrong Side): K1, P1, K1, * K2, P1, K1 *
Step 1: Cast On
Cast on 45 stitches onto your needle with the long-tail method.
Helpful tip: Begin Cast On with an 40-inch long yarn tail.
Step 2: Seeded Rib Stitch Pattern
The structure of this pattern requires no additional borders. We begin straight away into the stitch pattern while knitting bottom-up. The pattern includes a 2-stitch Garter Stitch border along the sides.
Row 1 (Right Side): K4, * P1, K3 * to last 5 stitches, P1, K4
Row 2 (Wrong Side): K2, * P1, K3 * to last 3 stitches, P1, K2
Repeat Rows 1 – 2 until your scarf is 70 inches, or the length you desire.
Knitting Chart
Step 3: Cast Off All Stitches
Once your scarf is 70 inches (178 cm) or you reach the length desired, it is time to cast off your stitches, cut your yarn, and weave in your ends.
Printable Pattern
Love printable patterns? Get 3-page downloadable pdf of this Hot Frosty Scarf. Also a great way to support my work!
Customizing Your Pattern
You can easily adjust the pattern to use a different yarn gauge or needle size. To modify, cast on stitches in multiples of four to achieve your desired width, then knit until your preferred length.
Keep in mind that these variations haven’t been properly tested, so I’m unable to provide specific guidance for adjustments. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
I hope you enjoy knitting this replica of the magical scarf from Hot Frosty as much as I enjoyed creating it. With its cozy texture and simple, yet beautiful design, it’s sure to bring warmth and a bit of movie magic to your wardrobe. Take your time, have fun with it, and I wish you all the best as you knit up this lovely accessory—happy knitting!
Kristen McDonnell
Author & Designer
After publishing her first knitting tutorial video, Kristen founded StudioKnit LLC. Enamored with teaching online, she films knitting lessons and designs from her vibrant production studio on Half Moon Bay’s California coast.
Kristen McDonnell is the author of the highly acclaimed book Knit Stitch: 50 Knit + Purl Patterns featuring vintage and unique designs.