Curly Shirley Scarf – Free Crochet Pattern

The Curly Shirley Scarf is a fun, playful accessory full of movement and personality. With its signature curly edges and cheerful color changes, this scarf is designed to stand out while still being simple enough to enjoy stitching. It’s the perfect project for adding a handmade touch to a child’s outfit and pairs beautifully with the Curly Shirley beanie and cardigan for an adorable coordinated look.

This scarf works up quickly using double crochet stitches and long chain sections that transform into soft, bouncy curls. The construction also includes a clever built-in loop, allowing one end of the scarf to slip neatly through the other no knots needed!

This pattern is ideal for confident beginners to intermediate crocheters who are comfortable with color changes and basic crochet stitches.

Curly Shirley Scarf – Free Crochet Pattern

Why You’ll Love the Curly Shirley Scarf

• Light, curly texture that adds movement and charm

• Color changes keep the project interesting

Stitch Pattern Overview

The Curly Shirley Scarf is worked in rows using foundation double crochet (FDC) as the base. Each row begins with a long chain that is transformed into curls by working 3 double crochets into each chain stitch. Between curly sections, the scarf body is worked evenly across 100 stitches, creating a balanced and flexible design.

Color changes are placed strategically to highlight the curls and add visual interest without overwhelming the pattern.

Row-by-Row Instructions

Row 1:
With Color A, FDC 100. Ch 16.

Row 2:
Starting in 2nd ch from hook, work 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Continue with 1 dc in each FDC across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 3:
Still with Color A, starting in 2nd ch from hook, work 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Change color at the end of the 45th dc. Continue in Color B, dc in each dc across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 4:
Starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Dc in each FDC across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 5:
With Color B, starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Change color at the end of the 45th dc. Continue in Color C, dc in each dc across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 6:
Starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Dc in each FDC across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 7:
With Color C, starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Change color at the end of the 45th dc. Continue in Color D, dc in the next 10 sts, then FDC 20 (working the first FDC into the same stitch as the last dc from Row 7). Skip 20 sts, work a joiner stitch (see special stitches), then dc to the end of the row.
(10 dc, 20 FDC, 70 dc = 100 dc total). Ch 16.

Row 8:
Starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Dc in each FDC across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 9:
With Color D, starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Change color at the end of the 45th dc. Continue in Color E, dc in each dc across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 10:
Starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Dc in each FDC across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 11:
With Color E, starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Change color at the end of the 45th dc. Continue in Color F, dc in each dc across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 12:
Starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Dc in each FDC across (100 dc). Ch 16.

Row 13:
With Color F, starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3 dc in each chain (45 dc total). Continue across the row with a slip stitch in each dc (100 sl sts). Fasten off.

📥 Free PDF Pattern

At the end of this post, you’ll find the free PDF download for the Curly Shirley Scarf pattern. The PDF includes the full instructions in a clean, printable format so you can crochet anywhere with ease.

📥 Free PDF Pattern

Finishing & Styling

To wear the scarf, simply slip one end through the loop created at the other end. This keeps the scarf secure and comfortable perfect for active little ones.

Pair the scarf with the Curly Shirley beanie and cardigan, and your little girl will truly be the cutest Shirley around!

Happy crocheting, and enjoy every curl! 🧶💗