I set out to create a White Swan scarf for under $5. But then I realized I hate making scarves because they take so long. So I upgraded the challenge: I became convinced I needed to not only create a $5 scarf but one that took, like, five minutes to make as well.
White Swan Imitation Scarf
I found a fancy looking scarf called White Swan. It’s the same scarf Natalie Portman wore in Black Swan apparently.
So I looked around for the yarn and then I realized I didn’t have large enough needles so I had to go shopping. The thrift store didn’t have what I needed so I got some on clearance at the craft store—$4.99. Then I looked for the yarn.
I couldn’t find it anywhere in town but I did find it online. Turns out the yarn this pattern calls for is actually really expensive (which is why the scarf looks so nice I guess).
Since I had already spent my $5 on new knitting needles I went to my stash yarn (stuff just sitting around). I found some that kind of seemed like the pattern wool (called Festival!) so I gave it a go.
So I’m not 100% sure I used 50 grams of wool or not, but it was probably close. Unfortunately I ran out before I could make the fringe and I’m devastated about it. Devastated! The huge fringe absolutely makes the scarf (IMO) and since mine doesn’t have one, I think I hate it.
It’s unfinished! And my budget is maxed! And also the yarn seems too fuzzy.
Here are my conclusions:
- If you want the scarf to look like Natalie’s, well, you should spend more than $5 and purchase the Festival yarn. Maybe get two balls for good measure
- If you want a $5 scarf then you should get some big knitting needles, download the free knitting pattern, and make it with $5 fashion wool or whatever. I think you can get the feathery stuff at the Dollar Store for a buck.
I could see how someone would enjoy this scarf but I don’t think it’s for me. Kind of a fail project, but definitely a quick and easy pattern.
More knitting patterns and inspiration
- Big Red Headband: Free Knitting Pattern
- Handmade Ties for Every Tom, Dick and Harry
- Felt Flowers & Kids Hat for under $5
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10 Responses
Ahhh! It’s so pretty! I think it looks very much like Natalie’s version, clearance yarn and all!
Aww you’re very kind
Well I agree with Mandy that it DOES look like Natalie’s version pretty much exactly…I think they’re equally ugly 😉
I think you should make loop scarves. Those are much cooler.
Yeah I think loop scarves are the next big thing. Good suggestion Kortney 🙂
Call me crazy, but I kind of like them both. It just wouldn’t be wise to wear it a) with black and orange OR b) around Halloween. Especially Natalie’s looks a bit like fake cobwebs. Is it weird that I still like it?!
No shame Sarah 🙂 I just need to add a fantastic fringe!
Sadly it’s the yardage that’s important not necessarily the weight of the yarn. In order to match the original yarn by weight, the yarn you substituted must then have the same yardage per pound. (Something a McMorran balance could determine.) Otherwise you run the risk of your yarn being (the same gauge) but not the same physical weight, and thusly you don’t have enough to finish.
Expensive? I bought the yarn online and it was $6 a ball.
Yeah I didn’t look online, just at the shops in my town. I will look online next! Thanks 🙂