Ditty Cowl

Ditty Cowl by Shannon Squire

What is Being Made

The Ditty Cowl is a knitted cowl neck accessory designed by Shannon Squire. This project creates a versatile neck wrap available in two sizes: a Small version measuring 35 inches in circumference and 12 inches wide at its widest point, and a Large version measuring 46 inches in circumference and 10 inches wide at its widest point. The cowl is worked in the round using super-bulky weight yarn, making it a quick and satisfying knitting project suitable for intermediate knitters.

Techniques Used

The Ditty Cowl employs several key knitting techniques that define its construction and visual appeal. The primary technique is knitting in the round, which creates a seamless, tubular fabric ideal for cowl construction. The pattern also incorporates mesh lace work, adding an open, textured element to the design. Knitters will use decreases to shape the cowl and create the lace pattern effects. The finished piece is blocked after completion to set the gauge and ensure proper drape and dimensions.

Stitches Used

The Ditty Cowl utilizes fundamental knitting stitches combined with lace techniques. The base fabric is worked in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knit fabric. Lace shaping is achieved through knit two together (k2tog) decreases, a standard decrease method that both reduces stitch count and creates the characteristic eyelets and openwork associated with mesh lace patterns. Slip stitches (sl) are used for various shaping and stitch manipulation purposes throughout the pattern.

Materials and Tools

The Ditty Cowl requires approximately 120 yards of super-bulky weight yarn for the Small size and 136 yards for the Large size. Shannon Squire used Blue Moon Fiber Arts Sookie yarn in the colorways Winter Jewel for the Small cowl and Bowies Laughing Gnome for the Large cowl, though any super-bulky weight yarn of similar characteristics will work. Knitting is worked on a US17/12.5mm circular needle measuring 24 inches or longer, or whatever needle size is needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends. The target gauge is 7.5 stitches over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Advanced beginner difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle circular knitting and introductory lace work. The combination of knitting in the round with mesh lace stitches provides a moderate challenge while remaining accessible to intermediate knitters seeking to expand their skills.