Free Pattern-Matchy Matchy Cowl

Surprise! I decided I should write this all down for the future, and also if you're interested in my design/pattern process here's a good example. If you're a knitter, please, go for your life and make it your own. This can be used as a direct pattern but if you'd like, make it your own. It's a basic start. If you're not a knitter, have fun deciphering the jargon (but actually, it's just like any other skill, you can learn). It's also available as a pdf on Ravelry, which I've finally joined! Enjoy! Ellen

Here's my first pattern baby in the flesh

“Matchy Matchy” Cowl

By Ellen James

Just the cowl; not the jumper. Not yet.

This simple cowl is worked in the round, with garter stitch bands top and bottom, a slightly rolled edge, and alternating stocking stich and simple colourwork. The pattern is very basic and I’d love for you to work in any of your own modifications.

You’ll need

- 3.25mm DPNs or circular needles (40-80cm, depending on what’s comfortable for you)

- About 80g of fingering weight (4ply) yarn: approx. 60g for the main colour and 20g for the contrast (about 350m in total). My completed cowl weighs 80g however your requirements may vary depending on your tension and yarn.

Gauge in colourwork: 21sts x 31 rows for 10cm x 10cm. Note that gauge isn’t critical to this project-you might end up with a slightly denser or thinner cowl. If you find you usually need to change up or down needles then maybe do that so the size isn’t too far off. My completed cowl, when laid flat, measures 25cm wide (so 50cm around your neck) and 26cm high. 

The colourwork can be done in any multiple of 8.

The steps

CO 104 sts; I used the long tail method. Knit one row. (RS)

Work 8 rows garter stitch starting with a purl row.

Knit 4 rows.

Work colourwork chart 1 rows 1-8 (8 rows).

Knit 2 rows.

Work 1 repeat of colourwork chart 1 rows 12-14 (3 rows).

Knit 4 rows.

Work colourwork chart 2 (11 rows).

Knit 8 rows.

Work colourwork chart 1 rows 1-8 (8 rows).

Knit 4 rows.

Work 8 rows garter stitch in the round, starting with a purl row.

Knit 4 rows, then another 8 rows garter stitch starting with a purl row.

Knit 2 rows.

Bind off all stitches.

Sew in the ends and block gently.