Dimples

Dimples Cowl by Katya Frankel

What is Being Made

Dimples is a cosy, double-sided cowl designed by Katya Frankel as a seamless knitting project. This wearable piece measures approximately 12½ inches tall with a 28-inch circumference, making it a versatile accessory suitable for autumn layering. The cowl's standout feature is its reversible design: the right side displays a traditional hourglass cable pattern, while the reverse side showcases subtle lozenges adorned with decorative purl dots that peek through the fabric.

Techniques and Construction

Dimples is worked seamlessly in the round, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a polished, professional finish. The design employs a repeating 18-stitch cable pattern that measures 4 inches wide and 6 inches tall after light blocking. The reversible nature of the pattern means a single cable motif creates distinctly different visual effects on each side of the fabric—a more formal hourglass cable on one side and playful peek-a-boo purl details on the other.

Stitches Used

This intermediate-level project requires competency in fundamental knitting techniques:

• Knit and purl stitches for creating the stockinette stitch base and textural details
• Cable stitches, specifically C4L (slip 3 stitches onto cable needle and hold to front), which form the signature hourglass and lozenge patterns
• Knitting in the round to achieve the seamless construction
• Simple increases and decreases for shaping
• Basic finishing techniques to complete the cowl

Materials and Gauge

Dimples is designed to be worked with Aran weight yarn (chunky weight), which knits up quickly and creates a bouncy, textured fabric ideal for autumn wear. The pattern calls for 5.5mm (US 9) needles and specifies a gauge of 14 stitches and 22 rounds over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Knitters should adjust needle size as necessary to achieve the correct gauge, ensuring the finished cowl meets the intended measurements and drape. Light blocking without stretching is recommended after completion to set the pattern definition.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, Dimples is suitable for knitters with solid foundational skills who are comfortable working cables and managing circular needle techniques. The seamless in-the-round construction and cable pattern work require attention to stitch placement, but the straightforward repeat and forgiving yarn weight make this an achievable project for advancing knitters.