Free Crochet Cowl Patterns

Cowls, snoods and infinity scarves

The names overlap and the patterns rarely explain the difference, so let us clear things up: a cowl is a closed loop worn close to the neck, usually a single layer; a snood is generally larger and looser, often big enough to pull up over the head; an infinity scarf is longer still, meant to be wrapped twice. In construction terms, they are the same object at different circumferences, which means once you can crochet one, you can crochet all three — the only decision is how many chains you start with, or how many rows you work before joining.

Two ways to build one

• Worked in the round: join your foundation chain into a circle and work upwards. No seam, but you must get the circumference right at the start.
• Worked flat and seamed: crochet a long rectangle, then join the short ends. Much easier to adjust as you go, and the seam is invisible in a textured stitch.
• Worked sideways: long rows along the length, which makes vertical stitch patterns and ribbed effects.
• Twisted infinity: add a half twist before seaming for a mobius that sits flat around the shoulders.
• Buttoned neck warmer: a rectangle with a buttonhole, easiest of all to size.

Stitch patterns that suit a cowl

Because a cowl sits against the neck and face, texture and drape matter more than in almost any other accessory. The half treble and its variations create a dense, warm fabric with a lovely rib-like surface. Shell and V-stitch patterns are open and light, better for a decorative autumn cowl than a January one. The alpine or waffle stitches produce a thick, squashy fabric that is genuinely windproof. Avoid anything with hard, scratchy loops or heavy bobbles at the top edge — whatever you make, it is going to touch your neck for hours.

Yarn and quantity

Most cowls need somewhere between one and three balls, which is why they are the traditional home for that single skein you fell in love with. Chunky and super chunky yarns give the fastest results and the cosiest fabric; DK gives a lighter cowl that tucks inside a coat collar. Fibre matters here for comfort as much as warmth: merino, alpaca and soft blends sit well against skin, while a rustic wool can be itchy at the neck even if it makes a lovely jumper. If you are working from stash, weigh your ball before and after a few rows to estimate whether you have enough for the length you want.

Sizing so it actually sits right

A close cowl usually wants a circumference of roughly 50 to 60cm and a depth of 20 to 25cm; a snood that pulls over the head needs to clear the widest part of your head comfortably; an infinity scarf that wraps twice needs to be roughly double a close cowl. Before joining a flat piece, wrap it around your neck and check — this is the one advantage of the flat method, and it is worth using.

Finishing and care

Weave in ends along the stitch direction so they do not pop out when the fabric stretches over your head. Block wool and wool blends, which relax any open stitch pattern dramatically and make a lacy cowl look twice as good. If the join is visible, a round of double crochet along both edges before seaming gives you something firm to sew into. Wash by hand in lukewarm water unless the yarn is superwash, and dry flat rather than hanging, which would stretch the loop out of shape.

Free crochet cowl questions

Are these patterns free? Yes, every pattern in this collection is a free PDF download.

Is a cowl good for a beginner? One of the best. There is no shaping and no fit to worry about, and a chunky cowl can be finished in an evening.

How much yarn do I need? Usually one to three balls, depending on weight and depth — check the metreage stated in the pattern.

What is the difference between a cowl and a snood? A cowl sits close to the neck; a snood is looser and often large enough to pull over the head.

Can I make it longer? Yes. Work more rows before seaming, or add extra rounds if working in the round, and buy an extra ball to cover it. See all free crochet patterns for more.