Personally, I don't like scarves to have a wrong and a right side, so I make them reversible...and, my favorite for that is either a moss or the double moss stitch....just be sure to knit the first and last 4 rows, and the first and last 2 stitches on each row....I like the sort of 'mindless' knitting you can do with scarves, ponchos, blankets, etc, and the moss stitch is perfect for 'mindlessness' (just knit the pearl stitches and pearl the knit stitches, as they 'present' themselves!!)

Rib scarves usually show off variegation beautifully -- I'm doing a tweedy-variegated yarn with mistake rib (use a multiple of 4 plus three, then K2, P2 across, ending every row with K2, P1. I sl the first st of every row knitwise). It's a heavier-looking rib than some of the others but very nice.

A 1x1 rib is a good one for all sorts of variegated yarns.

"My so-called scarf" (link below) is one that really seems to make variegation pop -- and the stitch is fun to knit.

I like slip-stitch patterns for showing off variegation. The one thing I wouldn't try is a lace pattern with much of a "design" to it (some of the simple ones would work) because the design will get lost in the variegation.

If you have a knitting stitch pattern book, you'll find some great ideas there as well! Have fun, and let us know what you decide!

Here is a link that might be useful: my so-called scarf

Try a feather and fan scarf. That shows off variegated yarn very prettily. It's an easier pattern too. I absolutely love feather and fan. I'm working up the nerve to try a baby blanket with it. I'm new to knitting. Can crochet anything though! Knitting is kind of a challenge to me.

Here is a link that might be useful: Feather and Fan Scarf

Thank you for the suggestions. I'm going to make swatches for each one and see which one I like best.

Jenn, one other idea that I meant to mention is to knit a scarf lengthwise -- especially fun with a self-striping yarn -- plain old garter stitch works well as do some of the other stitches. The only drawback is that casting on 130 st (or whatever number you need to get the length you want) and then knitting those long rows can be tedious -- but it results in a fun scarf with a slightly different look.

Thanks Carol, I've seen patterns like that. One day I will have to try it.... as soon as I get some long circular needles. :-)

I really prefer plain yarn as then the pattern shows up much better. Varigated works best on a rather plain pattern in my opinion. I also prefer plain yarn because it is usually considerably cheaper. But on a plain pair of socks, either would look nice, or a plain ski cap or muffler. Also, I have used varigated in a striped pattern, such as for a baby afghan, and then I pick up the solid colors from the varigated yarn as other stripes.

Jenn,
somewhat off topic on this thread- but I'd like to thank you for the 'sinful' rib pattern you suggested to me last month.
I used a Bernat Natural Wool Blend(worsted weight 4) verigated with two strands on #15 needles and made two .They were so gorgeous and easy to knit. I hope the link comes through on this post for anyone who would like to try it. Scroll to the bottom for the picture and pattern.
If not it's:
Row 1 K3, P3
Row 2 K1, P1
Till it's done.
Any combo of needles and yarns I'm sure would work.
Thanks again!
Nancy

Here is a link that might be useful: Sinful Ribbed Scarf

I'm glad you liked it, Nancy. It is a beautiful pattern isn't it? Are you going to show us some pictures? :-)

pacnwgrdrgirl - Feather and fan is a beautiful pattern. I am going to make that one my daughter.
Thankyou

Cool maggie4 ~ It really is a beautiful pattern!

About the Feather and Fan pattern... I started to make it and decided on a different pattern for this particular yarn, but I plan to make it with a different yarn very soon. It's easy and the pattern takes shape beautifully.