Easy cowl pattern
This is a very versatile, minimalist, and simple cowl – perfect for beginners! The fit is somewhat snug, but keep in mind that it will stretch each time it’s pulled over the head. That’s exactly why I wanted a closer fit – to keep cold winter air from sneaking in.
If you prefer a looser fit, you can block it after washing. When wool is wet, it can easily grow if you gently pull on the garment. But remember not to pull too much — making a wool garment smaller is not as easy!
Note: The front and back pieces are identical. The terms are only used for clarity:)
I'd love to see your version if you make this pattern! Please tag me if you share it on social media <3
Happy knitting :)
Gauge: 19 stitches / 10 cm in garter stitch on 4 mm needle
Needle size: 4 and 3,5 mm (and a thicker needle to cast on, I used 6mm)
Yarn: I used Fivel from Rauma (50g = 100m)
Amount of yarn needed: 52g (82g) 140g
Size: 2 years, (5 years,) adult
Cast on 64 (78) 92 stitches on 6 mm needles or cast on loosely on a smaller needle. Since the neck opening needs to go over the head, we have to ensure that the cast-on edge is loose. By casting on with a thick needle, we get an even and loose edge. I am using the long-tail cast on method. Move the stitches over to the 3,5 mm needle. Work *knit 1, purl 1* ribbing until the piece measures 12cm (16cm) 18 cm.
We now divide the work in two and start knitting the front and back pieces separately. Place 32 (39) 46 stitches on a scrap yarn or stitch holder. These stitches will rest while we knit the other side. From now on we are knitting with 4 mm needle.
Front piece: On the other side, cast on 4 (6) 8 stitches using the backwards loop method. Knit 32 (39) 46 stitches and cast on another 4 (6) 8 stitches. You now have 40 (51) 62 stitches on the needle—this forms the front piece.
Continue knitting in garter stitch (knit all stitches on both sides). For a neat edge, slip the first stitch of each row purlwise with the yarn in front. Knit until the front piece measures 8 cm (10cm) 16 cm, then bind off loosely.
Back piece: Pick up 4 (6) 8 stitches where you previously casted on stitches. Move the 32 (39) 46 stitches you set aside earlier back onto the needle, and knit them. Pick up 4 (6) 8 stitches on the other side. You now have 40 (51) 62 stitches on the needle. Knit as front piece. Weave in ends.