Mackenzie River

Mackenzie River Cowl by Laura Chau

What Is Being Made

The Mackenzie River is a knitted cowl designed by Laura Chau, featuring a generous 48-inch (122 cm) circumference and 14-inch (35.5 cm) depth. This intermediate-level project creates a versatile neckwear piece suitable for layering and everyday wear, worked seamlessly in the round from the bottom up.

Construction and Techniques

This cowl showcases a sophisticated design combining two complementary knitting techniques. The main body features ridged stockinette stitch as the foundation, providing structure and visual interest. A distinctive Travelling Lace pattern panel travels diagonally across the cowl, creating an elegant focal point that contrasts beautifully against the textured background.

The garment is worked in the round using circular needles, with the beginning of each round positioned strategically after the final yarn over of the lace section. Knitters will notice that stitch markers identifying both the round beginning and pattern start shift one stitch to the right on each lace pattern round, requiring attention to detail and understanding of lace construction principles. Pattern instructions are provided in both written and charted formats to accommodate different knitting preferences.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) – Forms the ridged background of the cowl, creating a smooth, classic base
• Travelling Lace Pattern – The signature diagonal lace motif incorporating yarn overs and decreases for an openwork effect
• Yarn Overs – Essential lace elements that create the decorative openings within the pattern

Materials and Gauge

This pattern calls for sport to 4-ply weight yarn, with approximately 475 yards (434 meters) required for completion. The original publication featured The Fibre Co. Road to China Light, a luxurious blend of 65% baby alpaca, 15% silk, and 10% other fibers, though any yarn meeting the gauge requirements may be substituted.

Knitters will need a 4mm / US 6 circular needle measuring 32 inches (80 cm) to accommodate the cowl's circumference. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 28 rounds over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch after blocking, which is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions and drape.

Additional Notions

Beyond the primary needles and yarn, this project requires stitch markers for tracking the round beginning and lace pattern placement, waste yarn for provisional cast-on or stitch holding, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and any necessary seaming.

Pattern Information

The Mackenzie River was originally published by Kelbourne Woolens in August 2017, with photography by Linette Kielinski. This downloadable PDF pattern is available through independent designer Laura Chau and provides a complete intermediate-level project for knitters seeking to expand their lace skills while creating a beautiful, wearable accessory.