The short answer
For the neck, about 40 to 60 inches across the long edge. For the hair, a bandana around 20 to 22 inches square folded to a triangle, or larger for full coverage. For the shoulders, 60 inches or more. Ties add reach to a smaller scarf.
Size by use
Triangle scarf sizes: general guidance
| Use | Long edge | Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bandana or kerchief | About 28 to 31 in (folded 20 to 22 in square) | About 14 to 16 in | Listings often show 22 in square |
| Small neck triangle | About 30 to 40 in | About 12 to 18 in | Needs ties to knot in front |
| Neck scarf | About 40 to 60 in | About 18 to 26 in | Front knot, bib, shoulder throw |
| Shawl | About 60 to 72 in | 26 in and up | Wraps the shoulders |
| Wrap | Over 72 in | Large | Covers the back |
For reference, the free Hudson Triangle Scarf crochet pattern finishes at about 46 by 22 inches, a typical neck scarf.
How to measure one you own
- Lay it flat
Spread the scarf on a table, long edge at the top, without stretching knits.
- Measure the long edge
Measure straight across the top from corner to corner, not including ties or tassels.
- Measure the depth
Measure from the middle of the long edge straight down to the point.
- Compare
Use your favorite scarf as the benchmark when you read listings.
Ties change the math
Ties extend the corners, so a 36 inch knit triangle with ties knots like a larger scarf without. If a listing gives one measurement with ties included, subtract them when comparing. See knit triangles.
Knitting to size
Point-up and top-down patterns let you stop when you like. Measure the long edge as you go and stop around 40 to 60 inches for the neck. See knitting patterns and crochet patterns.
Questions people ask
How is a triangle scarf measured?
Usually across the long top edge (the wingspan) and from the middle of that edge down to the point (the depth). Some listings for folded squares give the square size instead.
How big is a square scarf once folded into a triangle?
The long edge of the triangle is the diagonal of the square, about 1.4 times the side. A 22 inch bandana makes a triangle about 31 inches across.
What size for a hair scarf that covers all my hair?
Larger than a bandana. The American Cancer Society suggests square scarves of 35 inches or more for head coverage, and oblong scarves of about 21 by 78 inches.
Search triangle scarves on Amazon
Sources
Last reviewed October 12, 2026. Styles, sizes and availability change; check the listing before you buy.