The Codebreaker Scarf is a simple and fun geometric lace shawl with a seemingly random pattern. However the stitches actually contain a hidden message. The project is worked on the bias from one end to the other, creating a parallelogram shape. A series of eyelets worked along one edge creates a mesh-like fabric on half of the shawl, and the other side of the project is solid garter stitch. The project is well suited for adventurous beginners or intermediate knitters who are comfortable with increases (Yarn Over), decreases (K2 together, slipped stitches and beginner lace work. You may choose to encode your own message, or pick the number of eyelets in each row randomly. I’ve included the specific instructions for the same encoded message that I used in my project, but if you want to know what my scarf says, you’ll have to solve the puzzle yourself!

Finished Size: 17.5” (42 cm) wide and 90” (229 cm) from corner to corner.
Yarn: 2 skeins of Urban Girl Yarn Virginia, 480 yards (439 m) per 125g skein; 90% Superwash Merino, 10% Nylon OR 920 yards of fingering weight yarn. his pattern is written with Urban Girl Virginia fingering weight yarn in mind. This yarn is sold in generously sized 125g skeins instead of standard 100g skeins. I used 95% of 2 skeins (approx. 912 yds / 842m) in my project and encoded 105 characters. 200g of the same yarn only makes 86 rows of eyelets - only 75” in length. Make sure you have enough yardage to make the size you want. 
Needles: Size 6 (4mm) needles or size needed to obtain gauge.
Gauge: 19 sts and 32 rows = 4 x 4” (10 x 10 cm) square in garter stitch.
Other Materials: A tapestry needle, blocking rods (optional but recommended), pins, a blocking surface and a steam iron or steamer
Experience Level: This project is well suited for adventurous beginners or intermediate knitters who are comfortable with increases (Yarn Over), decreases (K2 together), slipped stitches and beginner lace work.

This pattern was designed for the Affiknitty retreat in April of 2025. If you are attending the event, please use your coupon code to get your download for free.