Balderiana

Balderiana Cowl by Helena Granholm

What is Being Made

Balderiana is a knitted cowl designed by Helena Granholm. This intermediate-level project creates a circular neckwear piece that measures approximately 34 cm (13.3 inches) in length from the cast-on edge, offering a versatile accessory suitable for various styling occasions.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Balderiana cowl employs fundamental and decorative knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The project begins with a set-up section using alternating knit and purl rounds to establish the fabric foundation. The main body features a repeating stitch pattern that incorporates yarn overs and decreases to create textural interest and shaping. Working in the round on circular needles is the primary construction method, requiring careful attention during the cast-on to avoid twisting the stitches.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) – The fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl (P) – Used in set-up rounds and within the main pattern repeat
• Yarn Over (YO) – Creates decorative openwork and lace elements within the pattern
• Purl Three Together (P3tog) – A decrease stitch that reduces three stitches to one, creating shaping and pattern definition

Pattern Structure

The cowl follows a four-round repeat pattern after the initial set-up rounds. The seven-stitch pattern repeat is worked across 126 cast-on stitches, allowing the motif to repeat consistently around the circumference. The main pattern combines knit rounds with a decorative round featuring the sequence K1, YO, P1, P3tog, P1, YO, K1 repeated to the end of the round.

Materials and Gauge

The Balderiana cowl requires approximately 100 grams of sport-weight yarn. The sample was knitted using Imagine Organic Wool Soft Merino Thin, a 50-gram skein containing 167 meters (182 yards) of merino wool. The yarn was hand-dyed in the Cloudberry colorway by Rät & Avig. Knitting is worked on a 3.5 mm (US 4) circular needle measuring 40 cm (16 inches) in length, with one stitch marker to indicate the beginning of the round. The correct gauge is essential for proper fit: 24 stitches and 34 rows should measure 10 cm (4 inches) in the main body pattern after blocking.