Any size yarn works, but fingering to DK is what I like best. You can use the larger needle size of the range that suits the yarn size, as it’s a lacy, open texture. A variegated skein of sock yarn makes a fabulous float.
To make the float, create a long I-cord from 3 to 5 stiches (see any reference for how if it’s not in your current skill set), making it the length of a necklace you can easily drop over your head, but that still hangs at upper chest. For most people, that’s 24” to 28”. This is the top of the cowl, so if you want it even more open, your choice.
Next, with the cord back on your left needle (double points are good to use up to this point, but now switch to circular), knit the cord stitches then rotate your work 90 degrees and pick up and knit a stitch in every row along the cord. Try to keep a consistent column of stitches to knit into, but if not, don’t sweat it. When you get back to the cast on edge, pick up and knit a stitch or two into the cast on to bridge the gap and join the work into circulat knitting. Yeah, try to avoid twisting it.
Now, place a BOR marker and begin the simple pattern of Row 1: YO, k2tog, ad nauseum, until you get back to the marker. If it’s not even at the end, so what! Row 2 and 3 are all knit. Repeat these 3 rows for 2 more times, then start increasing 8 stitches sprinkled around Row 3. I use kf&b increases for this.
Do this sequence of keeping the same stitch count for 3 sets of pattern, then place increases, and you will see the gradual shape change that creates a wide funnel. The open lacy stitch allows the piece to “float” into whatever place on your neck and shoulders you want it to sit. You will probably end up with about 54” or more when you get to the end. Stop soon enough to either do standard or I-cord bind off.
These can be worn as cowks, capelets, hoods, neckwarmers or even muffs for cold hands, if doubled. Enjoy
Jenna Hoefert
NovaSkills, Inc.
| kendal711
December 2 |
Maybe this is why I’ve always hated cowls! Honestly, I find them uncomfortable and they don’t do much for me. Maybe it’s because they aren’t big enough on the bottom!! I’m going to have to make a bigger-on-the-bottom cowl sometime and rethink my opinion on cowls……