The Doctor Who scarf is more than just a piece of knitwear; it’s a symbol of adventure, ingenuity, and timeless style. While many characters in the Doctor Who universe have sported scarves, none are as instantly recognizable as the elongated, multicolored scarf of the Fourth Doctor, portrayed by Tom Baker. This guide delves into the details of recreating this iconic accessory, along with variations and adaptations, ensuring your foray into crafting a Doctor Who scarf is both accurate and enjoyable.
Understanding the Original Fourth Doctor Scarf
The original Fourth Doctor’s scarf, a creation of accident and charm, became an integral part of his persona. The BBC’s description of the base colors includes: Purple, Camel, Mustard, Rust, Grey, Greenish brown, and Bronze. These hues, combined in varying stripes, created a visually distinctive and memorable accessory.
For those eager to start crocheting, patterns are readily available online. These patterns typically use American crochet terminology. If you prefer to skip the color and yarn selection process, several vendors offer convenient kits, though it’s wise to check for international shipping options and ensure the kit suits your crochet needs.
Scarf Dimensions: Width and Length
Let’s talk size. Official knitted versions of the Fourth Doctor’s scarf were generally around 10-12 inches wide. However, personal preference and climate can influence this. For warmer climates, a narrower scarf, around 6-10 inches, might be more practical. Osgood’s scarf, for instance, appears to be less wide than the original S13, perhaps half the width, though this is an estimation.
Scarf length varied significantly across different seasons, partly due to stretching and shrinkage over time. Here’s a length approximation from longest to shortest, based on available information:
- Season 18: Approximately 20 feet (some sources suggest even longer, up to 26 feet).
- Season 15: 15 to 20 feet.
- SHADA: Just under 20 feet including tassels.
- Seasons 16-17: 18 feet.
- Season 12: Started at about 12 feet, stretching to roughly 14 feet.
- Season 12.5: Slightly shorter than 12 feet due to shrinkage.
- Season 13: Around 11 feet.
- Season 14: 9 feet.
The Osgood scarf likely falls somewhere around the Season 13 length, appearing shorter than the original S13 but the exact difference is not specified.
Decoding the Color Stripes
Each Doctor Who scarf variant boasts a unique color scheme. The number of rows per color stripe depends on yarn thickness, hook/needle size, and individual crafting tension. Based on available data, the stripe counts for different seasons are:
- Season 12: 53 stripes
- Season 12.5: 52 stripes (one grey section removed)
- Duplicate Scarf: 47 stripes
- Season 13: 47 stripes
- Osgood scarf: 47 stripes
- Season 14: 44 stripes
- Season 15: 66 stripes
- Seasons 16 and 17: 88 stripes
- SHADA: 87 stripes
- Season 18: 282 stripes
The SHADA Scarf: A Unique Variation
The SHADA scarf is particularly interesting as it combines elements from the Season 12-14 scarves, using similar colors and incorporating remnants from the original scarves (Seasons 13 and 14) and a stunt duplicate. Distinctive additions include a light grey and a burgundy stripe. Notably, the SHADA scarf uses a blue-purple as the primary purple, differing from the red-purple (burgundy) used in other variations. The original SHADA scarf itself was constructed from two pieces of differing widths.
A crocheted SHADA scarf, made with worsted yarn and an I hook in single crochet, might measure around 9 inches wide and 19 feet long without fringe, resulting in a substantial, heavy scarf. The screen-used scarf was crafted from DK yarn, primarily wool or wool blends.
For a crocheted SHADA scarf, suggested yarn colors include:
- Purple: Vanna’s Choice Purple
- Camel: I Love This Yarn light taupe (2 skeins)
- Mustard: Bernat Gypsy Gold
- Rust: I Love This Yarn Terra Cotta
- Grey: Vanna’s Choice Taupe (2 skeins)
- Greenish brown: Bernat Waverly Bark (2 skeins)
- Bronze: Vanna’s Choice Toffee (2 skeins)
- Light grey: I Love This Yarn greybeard
Crochet Osgood Scarf
Recent analysis of the SHADA scarf has revealed it may not be entirely wool, with some sections showing minimal felting. This detail might be less relevant for crafters using acrylic yarn, but it offers fascinating insight into the original construction. Measurements taken from the actual SHADA scarf in June 2014 provided updated dimensions, including a shorter fringe than commonly assumed.
- Length: 19 feet 11 inches from tassel to tassel.
- Width (Hero side): Varies from 11 to 11.5 inches.
- Width (Dupe side): Varies from 9.25 to 9.75 inches, with a brown section narrowing to 7.5 inches.
Crochet vs. Knit: Adapting Patterns
It’s crucial to note that most available patterns are for knitted scarves, while this guide focuses on crochet. If adapting a knit pattern using garter stitch for crochet, remember that one crochet row roughly equates to a knit ridge, which requires two passes (rows) in knitting. Yarn labels typically suggest different hook and needle sizes for the same yarn weight, reflecting this difference. For instance, a yarn might recommend a 5.5mm crochet hook (I) and a 5mm knitting needle (#8). This row comparison might not hold true for knit patterns beyond garter stitch.
For crocheted Doctor Who scarves, single crochet or double crochet are common choices, with single crochet being prevalent. While these stitches create a different texture than knitting, the color pattern remains the most visually striking element for most observers. For those seeking a knitted appearance in crochet, the Tunisian knit stitch or split single crochet (or split extended single crochet) can offer closer approximations.
When using knit patterns, be mindful of whether they specify rows or ridges. Gene at doctorwhoscarf.com offers patterns using inches instead of rows, which can be particularly beginner-friendly. Personal gauge (rows per inch) will depend on your hook, yarn, and tension.
For a more wearable, shorter scarf, maintain the color stripe sequence of your chosen season but reduce the number of rows per stripe. Alternatively, simply crochet until your desired length is achieved, then stop, disregarding stripe counts.
Yarn and Color Choices: Bringing the Scarf to Life
Yarn weight significantly impacts the final scarf. Yarn is categorized by weight, from 0 (lace) to 7 (jumbo), with categories 3 (light/DK) and 4 (medium/worsted) being relevant for Doctor Who scarves. However, yarn weight classifications can vary between manufacturers and even between the UK and U.S. “Aran” weight, for example, is often considered a heavy worsted.
For screen-accurate colors, consulting doctorwhoscarf.com is highly recommended, as Gene is considered a leading authority on the subject. The Facebook group “Stitches in Time” is also a valuable resource for color discussions and yarn recommendations.
For acrylic category #4 (worsted/Aran) yarns, consider these options for the original Seasons 12-14 scarves:
- Rust (Red): Knit Picks Brava worsted Paprika, Vanna’s Choice Brick (Aran), I Love This Yarn Terra Cotta (Aran)
- Greenish brown (Green): Bernat Satin Dark Gold (thinner), Bernat Super Value Gingerbread (Aran), (Bernat Waverly Bark – discontinued but ideal, Bernat Waverly Gingerbread – also discontinued but good).
- Mustard (Gold): I Love This Yarn Sungold, Loops and Threads Impeccable Gold, Bernat Waverly Gypsy Gold (discontinued but nice).
- Camel (Tan): I Love This Yarn light taupe
- Bronze (Brown): Knit Picks Brava Worsted Brindle, Vanna’s Choice Toffee (Aran)
- Purple: Knit Picks Brava Worsted Currant, Vanna’s Choice Burgundy (Aran)
- Grey: Vanna’s Choice Taupe (deep brown-grey), Vanna’s Choice charcoal (true grey)
For a thinner, shinier acrylic worsted option, Red Heart Soft and Bernat Satin are comparable in thickness and offer these color alternatives:
- Rust (Red): RHS paprika
- Greenish brown (Green): BS Satin Dark Gold
- Mustard (Gold): Bernat Satin Goldenrod
- Camel (Tan): BS Sable, RHS Wheat
- Bronze (Brown): RHS toast
- Purple: RHS Grape
- Grey: RHS Charcoal
For acrylic category #3 (DK/sport) yarns, these are suitable choices:
- Rust (Red): Knit Picks Brava Sport Paprika, Stylecraft Special DK Copper
- Greenish Brown (Green): Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK Moss Green, Stylecraft Special DK Khaki
- Mustard (Gold): Stylecraft Special DK Gold, Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK Pumpkin
- Camel (Tan): Knit Picks Brava Sport Almond, Stylecraft Special DK Camel
- Bronze (Brown): Knit Picks Brava Sport Brindle, King Cole Big Value DK Taupe
- Purple: Knit Picks Brava Sport Currant, Stylecraft Special DK Burgundy
- Grey: Stylecraft Special DK Graphite, Knit Picks Brave Sport Cobblestone Heather (alternative)
Remember, the SHADA scarf requires both burgundy and purple, and a light grey stripe. Seasons 16/17 and SHADA scarves feature unique construction details with sections cut, added, and rearranged, visually detailed at doctorwhoscarf.com. Alex Murphy’s video demonstration (link provided in original article) shows section removal on a knitted scarf, offering further insight.
Season 15 and Season 18 Scarves: Variations in Color and Yarn
Season 15 colors differ slightly from the earlier scarves, and doctorwhoscarf.com offers the most comprehensive information.
Season 18 marks a significant departure in yarn type and color palette. June Hudson, costume designer for Season 18, opted for plum, rust, and aubergine chenille yarn. Chenille, despite its bulky appearance, is lighter and cooler than wool, a practical consideration for studio filming. Fanzines and BBC patterns from the era offer slightly differing color names, but Sirdar Chenille (no longer available) in colors Rust 523, Wine 525, and Plum 526 were reportedly used.
Lion Brand Suede (discontinued, but sometimes on eBay) offers an alternative, though some find it less comfortable to work with. Colors include garnet, spice, and eggplant. Lion Brand Wool Ease brushed acrylic in cranberry, paprika, and eggplant is another option.
For acrylic worsted weight Season 18 scarves, doctorwhoscarf.com suggests:
- Plum (Claret): Knit Picks Brava Worsted Wine, Vanna’s Choice Cranberry
- Rust (Terra Cotta): Knit Picks Brava Worsted Paprika, Vanna’s Choice Brick
- Aubergine (Deep Purple): Deborah Norville Everyday Soft Worsted Aubergine, Knit Picks Brava Worsted Currant (alternative)
Yarn Charm offers neon chenille options for a brighter Season 18 interpretation:
- Plum (Claret): Bella Chenille by Universal Yarns Ripe Berry
- Rust (Terra Cotta): Bella Chenille by Universal Yarns Bright Salmon
- Aubergine (Deep Purple): Bella Chenille by Universal Yarns Pansy Purple
The original Season 18 scarf featured a slip stitch crochet edging in rust. A (sc, ch 1, sk 1) edging in paprika can provide a visually similar alternative.
Beyond the Fourth Doctor: Romana and Osgood
While the Fourth Doctor’s scarf is the most iconic, other characters have also worn variations. Harry Sullivan briefly sported the scarf, and Romana II famously wore a Fourth Doctor-style scarf in “Destiny of the Daleks” as she experimented with different looks. Romana’s scarf differed slightly in color, and doctorwhoscarf.com provides a specific pattern for it. Romana also wore a long, cream-colored silk scarf in the same episode.
Doctor Who Scarf Yarn Kit
Osgood, a beloved modern character, wears a scarf reminiscent of the Fourth Doctor’s in the 50th Anniversary special, “Day of the Doctor.” Its origins are debated, adding to its mystique.
Scarf Kits: Convenient Options for Beginners
For those seeking convenience, scarf kits are available, but consider these points: Crochet typically uses more yarn than knitting, so confirm the kit provides sufficient yarn for crochet. Kit color accuracy can vary, and direct communication with the vendor is advisable.
Vendors offering Doctor Who scarf kits include:
- Unraveled Ewe
- Sconch Textiles (UK)
- Yarn Charm
- The Knit Tree
- Little Red Mitten (Canada – may no longer offer the kit)
These kits offer a starting point, but yarn substitutions based on color accuracy and yarn type preferences might be desired.
Conclusion: Craft Your Own Time Lord Style
Creating a Doctor Who scarf is a rewarding project for fans and crafters alike. Whether you aim for screen accuracy or a personalized interpretation, understanding the nuances of color, length, and yarn choice is key. Resources like doctorwhoscarf.com and the Stitches in Time Facebook group offer invaluable guidance. So, grab your hooks and yarn, and embark on a crafting adventure through time and space!
