Double Loop Cowl in Rowan Kidsilk Haze and Felted Tweed - Downloadable PDF

Double Loop Cowl in Rowan Kidsilk Haze and Felted Tweed

Project Overview

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern by Florence Spurling presents an intermediate-level cowl design that showcases creative yarn layering and color work. The Double Loop Cowl is a generous neckwear piece measuring approximately 134.5 cm (53 inches) in circumference with a depth of 30 cm (11¾ inches), making it a substantial and versatile accessory suitable for layering or wearing as a statement piece.

What Is Being Made

The Double Loop Cowl is a circular knitted cowl—a tubular neckwear accessory designed to loop around the neck. The finished dimensions allow for comfortable wear with significant drape and the ability to wrap multiple times around the neck if desired. This style of cowl offers both warmth and visual interest through its construction method and yarn combinations.

Yarn Materials and Specifications

This pattern utilizes a sophisticated blend of Rowan yarns in complementary colorways:

• Kidsilk Haze (25gm balls): A delicate, lofty yarn used in two colors—Magenta (717) and Plum (718)—each requiring one ball
• Felted Tweed (50gm balls): A more substantial yarn used in two colors—Peony (183) and Tawny (186)—each requiring one ball

The pattern employs both DK and lace weight yarns, combining the airy qualities of Kidsilk Haze with the structure of Felted Tweed to create layered visual and textural effects.

Needles and Gauge

The cowl is worked on 4mm (US 6) circular needles measuring at least 100 cm in length to accommodate the substantial stitch count. The pattern specifies a tension of 18.5 stitches and 26 rows to 10 cm measured over the main pattern using 4mm needles with the yarn placement as indicated in the instructions. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions.

Knitting Techniques

The Double Loop Cowl demonstrates several intermediate knitting techniques:

• Moss Stitch: The pattern begins with a moss stitch foundation, which is a textured stitch created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a checkerboard pattern. This provides a stable, elastic edge for the cowl.
• Multi-Strand Yarn Holding: A distinctive technique used in this pattern involves holding multiple strands of yarn together while knitting. The pattern specifically calls for holding two strands of Kidsilk Haze together (either Magenta or Plum) while working knit and purl stitches, creating a doubled yarn effect that adds dimension and visual complexity.
• Color Work and Yarn Layering: The pattern incorporates strategic color changes and yarn combinations, transitioning from single-strand work with Felted Tweed to multi-strand work with Kidsilk Haze, allowing for sophisticated color blocking and textural variation throughout the piece.

Stitch Techniques

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches worked in creative ways:

• Knit Stitch (K): The primary stitch used throughout the pattern, worked both as single strands and in doubled configurations
• Purl Stitch (P): Used in combination with knit stitches to create the moss stitch texture and incorporated into the patterned sections
• Moss Stitch Pattern: Created through alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence (K1, P1 on right-side rows; P1, K1 on wrong-side rows), producing a reversible, textured fabric

Pattern Construction

The cowl begins with casting on 248 stitches using Felted Tweed in Tawny (yarn D). The initial eight rows establish a moss stitch border, which provides structure and prevents curling at the edge. Following this foundation, the pattern transitions to the main design section, where Kidsilk Haze yarns are introduced and worked in doubled strands alongside the Felted Tweed, creating the signature layered appearance and color combinations that define this design.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as an intermediate project, the Double Loop Cowl is suitable