Fluid Motion

Fluid Motion Cowl by Margaret Kendall

What is Being Made

Fluid Motion is a knitted cowl designed by Margaret Kendall as an intermediate-level project. This in-the-round cowl features a dynamic stitch pattern that creates alternating waxing and waning crescents, producing a visually striking design that showcases the depth and motion of semi-solid and tonal yarns. The cowl is worked circularly from a provisional cast-on and finished with an i-cord bind-off.

Techniques Used

This knitting project employs several key techniques suitable for intermediate knitters:

• In-the-round knitting: The entire cowl is worked circularly without turning at the end of each round, creating a seamless tubular fabric
• Provisional cast-on: The pattern begins with a provisional cast-on worked with waste yarn and a crochet hook, allowing for a flexible starting edge
• Stitch slipping: The pattern involves slipping stitches, with a note suggesting blunt-tipped needles to prevent yarn splitting
• I-cord bind-off: The cowl is finished with an i-cord bind-off for a polished, textured edge
• Stitch marker placement: Markers are used to track pattern repeats and round beginnings

Stitches Used

Fluid Motion incorporates the following stitches and stitch patterns:

• Crescents pattern: Alternating waxing and waning crescents form the primary textured design, worked in meandering columns that highlight yarn characteristics
• Garter stitch in-the-round: Worked over 4 repeats using alternating knit and purl rounds to create texture
• Ribbing: An alternative edging option using (p1, k2) ribbing worked around for 6 rounds

Materials and Specifications

Fluid Motion is designed for aran weight yarn, worked on US 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles in either 16-inch or 24-inch lengths. Additional materials include a US G or H (4 to 5 mm) crochet hook for the provisional cast-on, a stitch marker for tracking pattern repeats, a large-eyed blunt tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and waste yarn for the provisional cast-on. Knitters should work to the specified gauge to ensure proper fit.

Pattern Notes

The pattern allows for customization: when modifying the design, adjust cast-on stitches by multiples of 3. The cowl offers two alternative edging options—the textured i-cord bind-off or the ribbed finish—allowing knitters to choose their preferred finishing style. Using blunt-tipped needles is recommended to minimize yarn splitting when working the slipped stitches that create the pattern's distinctive crescent details.