Eurasian Cowl

Eurasian Cowl by Martha Wissing

What is Being Made

The Eurasian Cowl is a versatile triangular cowl designed by Martha Wissing, named after the Eurasian Collared Dove. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a multifunctional accessory that can be styled in multiple ways: as a traditional triangle shawl, worn bandana style, or draped to one shoulder. The finished cowl measures 24 inches (61 cm) in top circumference with a triangle depth of 17 inches (43 cm) after steam blocking. The design is engineered to stay securely in place without requiring constant adjustment, making it both practical and elegant.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Eurasian Cowl is knitted flat from the top down and then seamed, creating a structured triangular shape. The pattern employs increase techniques including M1R (make one right) and M1L (make one left) to shape the expanding triangle. Steam blocking is used as a finishing technique to set the final measurements and enhance the fabric's drape and appearance.

Stitches and Stitch Work

While the complete stitch pattern details are not fully visible in the provided content, the pattern utilizes standard knitting increases (M1R and M1L) to create the triangular shaping characteristic of this cowl design. The combination of two different yarn weights held together creates textural interest and the desired fabric characteristics.

Materials and Yarn

• Madtosh Tosh Sock in Simply Greige colorway – 1 hank (100 grams / 395 yards)
• Shibui Silk Cloud in Mineral colorway – 1 hank (25 grams / 330 yards)
• 32-inch circular knitting needles (size not fully specified in provided content)

Yarn Combination and Fabric Qualities

The Eurasian Cowl features a thoughtfully curated yarn pairing that combines Madtosh Tosh Sock with Shibui Silk Cloud, held together as a single strand throughout the project. The Tosh Sock provides a lightly speckled base with excellent yardage and durability, while the Silk Cloud adds softness and creates a subtle halo effect around the finished fabric. This combination produces a lovely, soft fabric with beautiful visual depth and luxurious drape—a pairing the designer describes as divine. The resulting textile is both comfortable against the skin and visually sophisticated.

Skill Level and Project Scope

Rated as an intermediate knitting project, the Eurasian Cowl is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic knitting techniques and are comfortable working with increases and seaming. The pattern was published in May 2019 by Martha Wissing Designs and is available as a downloadable PDF format.