Concept Cowl

Concept Cowl by RaffamusaDesigns

What Is Being Made

The Concept Cowl is a crocheted cowl neck accessory designed using Tunisian crochet techniques. This intermediate-level project is worked flat from bottom to top and then seamed on the short side to create a finished cowl. The design features a sophisticated cable pattern with alternating right-leaning and left-leaning cables that create visual interest and texture.

Construction Method

The cowl is constructed using a flat, bottom-up approach, meaning you begin crocheting at the bottom edge and work upward toward the top edge. Once the flat piece reaches the desired length, the short sides are seamed together to form the completed cowl shape. This construction method allows for easy pattern repeats and consistent stitch work throughout the piece.

Stitches and Techniques Used

This pattern employs Tunisian crochet as its primary technique, which combines elements of both crochet and knitting. The specific stitches used include:

• Tunisian Simple Stitch (Tss) – the foundational stitch used throughout much of the pattern
• Twisted Tunisian Simple Stitch (twTss) – a variation that adds texture and dimension
• Tunisian Knit Stitch (Tks) – creates a knit-like appearance and is used for the gauge measurement
• Tunisian Rib Stitch – employed at the bottom and top edges of the cowl for a finished look
• Cable stitches – alternating right-leaning and left-leaning cables worked in the return pass, creating the signature design element

All cables are crocheted during the return pass of Tunisian crochet, which is a distinctive feature of this pattern. The Tunisian rib stitch sections at the top and bottom are intentionally more relaxed than the cable sections, creating naturally wider edges. If you prefer a uniform width throughout, you can substitute a smaller hook size for the ribbing rows.

Materials Required

This pattern calls for 3 skeins of Katia Concept Ultralight Merino or another Super Bulky weight yarn. The yarn weight is Aran, providing a substantial fabric suitable for a cozy cowl accessory. You will also need an appropriate Tunisian crochet hook sized to achieve the specified gauge.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 17 stitches over 10 rows in 10 centimeters (4 inches) when working in Tunisian Knit Stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is important for proper fit and drape of the finished cowl.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic crochet techniques and are ready to explore the specialized techniques of Tunisian crochet. Familiarity with cable stitches and the Tunisian crochet method is beneficial for success with this project.