Grasshopper cowl

Grasshopper Cowl by Ashley Knowlton

What is Being Made

The Grasshopper Cowl is a knitted neck accessory designed by Ashley Knowlton. This cowl features a finished circumference of 18.5 inches (47 centimeters) when unstretched, with an adjustable depth of 7 inches (18 centimeters). The cowl is worked in the round using circular needles, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various necklines and styling preferences.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern requires 140 yards (128 meters) of fingering weight yarn. The designer recommends using a springy and soft fiber such as wool, cashmere, or a blend of these materials for optimal drape and comfort. The cowl shown in the pattern photographs was knitted using Posh Yarns Sophia 4 Ply Sock, which is 100% cashmere with approximately 200 yards (183 meters) per 55-gram skein, in the colorway Grasshopper.

Needles and Notions

Construction requires US 6 (4mm) circular needles measuring 16 inches long or longer, suitable for magic loop technique if preferred. Additional notions include a cable needle for cable stitch work, stitch marker(s) for tracking pattern repeats, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Grasshopper Cowl is an intermediate-level knitting project that incorporates several key techniques and stitches:

• Stockinette Stitch – The primary stitch used throughout the cowl, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Cable Stitches – Cable work is featured in the pattern, requiring the use of a cable needle to create twisted, rope-like textural elements
• Increases – The pattern includes M1P (Make One Purl) increases, which involve inserting the left-hand needle into the bar between stitches from the back and purling this bar to create new stitches without visible holes
• Circular Knitting – The cowl is worked in the round using circular needles, allowing for seamless construction
• Pattern Repeats – The design uses repeating pattern rounds (specifically rounds 5-24 are repeated as needed) to build the depth and texture of the finished piece

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches by 28 rows measuring 4 inches by 4 inches (10 centimeters by 10 centimeters) in Stockinette Stitch after blocking with US 6 (4mm) needles. Achieving correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper finished measurements and fit. The cowl is designed to be blocked after completion to enhance stitch definition and ensure consistent sizing.