Outreach Project for May 4 Convention to Benefit Seaman’s Church Institute
As our dioceses discern reunion, Episcopalians across Wisconsin are invited to celebrate our shared commitment to outreach by creating handknitted or crocheted scarves for the Seaman’s Church Institute “Christmas at Sea” program. Our May 4 convention will include an ingathering and blessing of scarves, which will be sent to the Seaman’s institute. The project is sponsored by the Episcopal Church Women of the Diocese of Milwaukee in conjunction with the Trialogue Steering Committee
You do not need to be a needlework expert to take part. The Institute’s favorite scarf only requires one skein [300 yards, 4 ply] of worsted yarn, and uses a simple pattern available on the Trialogue website. Other patterns, for both crochet and knitting, are on the Seamen’s Church Institute website.
To help your congregation participate in this statewide outreach project, follow these steps:
1. Share this information with your parish.
2. Let us know that your parish will be bringing scarves by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with “scarves” in the subject line.
3. Tag each scarf with your parish name; participating congregations will be recognized at our joint convention on May 4.
4. Arrange for your parish delegation to bring your scarves to the May 4 convention.
Questions? Contact Connie Ott, chair, Milwaukee ECW Board at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.with “scarves” in the subject line.
Favorite scarf pattern: The “Number Scarf”
Needles 6 or 7 or 8
300-350 yards washable worsted #4
Cast on 32 stitches.
Knit (garter stitch) for 14 inches.
Then Knit 4, purl 4 for 18 inches.
Then Knit (garter stitch) for 14 inches.
Bind off!
Find more information about the pattern online.
Other important information for those knitting or crocheting scarves:
Feel free to work with the fiber that makes you happy and you have available. You may use wool, washable wool, wool blends, or acrylics – again, knit with your preference! All are acceptable, with the exception of fun fur. If you are knitting with wool or something special like cashmere, we suggest that you attach a tag or note so that the recipient knows not to put it in the dryer. All SCI patterns provide a recommended yarn weight and gauge.
When choosing colors, remember that the majority of mariners are male, and their work environments can get dirty. We find that seafarers and mariners love bright colors as well as earth tones or a more traditional color palette. Contrary to popular belief, bright colors do not pose a security threat. In fact, required safety gear is usually fluorescent! Work in a colorway that you find pleasing, and we will deliver your gift to a mariner who treasures it. Our only color recommendation is to avoid pastels, as light or delicate colors tend to show more dirt and grime. Stripes or the use of ombre, variegated, tweed, or flecked yarns is another way to make your knit pop.
Please note: the Seaman’s Institute cannot accept scarves with pom-poms, tassels, or fringe, as these embellishments present a safety hazard in maritime workplaces.
Learn more and download patterns.
