Wanderer

Wanderer Cowl by Hanks And Needles

What Is Being Made

The Wanderer is a fingering weight knitted cowl designed by Makenzie Alvarez and published by Hanks And Needles. This intermediate-level project creates a finished cowl measuring 26 inches (66 cm) in circumference and 20 inches (51 cm) in length. The design draws inspiration from natural flowing elements such as winding rivers and mountain ranges, with the construction emphasizing fluid movement through strategic cable work.

Construction Method

The Wanderer cowl is worked flat rather than in the round, utilizing a series of strategic increases to build the piece from a narrower starting point to the finished 26-inch circumference. Once the flat piece reaches the desired dimensions, it is seamed together to create the final tubular cowl form. This flat-working approach allows for easier cable manipulation and shaping during the knitting process.

Stitches and Techniques Used

Cable stitches form the primary decorative and structural element of this design. The cables are worked to create visual interest and texture that evokes the flowing, curved paths found in nature. The pattern incorporates increases strategically placed throughout the flat piece to gradually expand the width before seaming. Seaming techniques are required to join the finished flat piece into a seamless cowl.

Materials Required

• Yarn: Fingering weight yarn totaling 420 yards (384 meters) and 4 ounces (114 grams). The sample was knitted using Knitted Wit Sock yarn in the colorway Grey Wolf, which is composed of 80% Superwash Merino and 20% Nylon.
• Needles: US3 (3.25 mm) circular needle, 32 inches (80 cm) minimum length, or the size required to achieve proper gauge
• Notions: Cable needle, two stitch markers, one removable stitch marker (optional), and a tapestry needle for seaming and finishing

Skill Level and Gauge

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with cable techniques. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions, and knitters should swatch and adjust needle size as needed before beginning the project.