Gridlock

Gridlock Knitting Pattern by VERSACIKNITS

Project Overview

Gridlock is an intermediate-level knitting pattern that features two coordinated pieces: a cowl and a matching hat. This downloadable PDF design showcases the versatility of 4-ply yarn worked across four coordinating colors, allowing knitters to create a cohesive set using the Woolfolk TYND yarn or a suitable substitute of similar weight and yardage.

What Is Being Made

The Gridlock pattern includes two separate garments designed to be worked from the same yarn allocation:

• Cowl: A neck warmer with finished measurements of 25 ¼ inches in circumference and 13 ½ inches in height
• Hat: A coordinating head covering with finished measurements of 18 ¼ inches in circumference and 10 ¼ inches in height

Both pieces are designed to work together as a set, with yarn distributed at approximately two-thirds of the total yardage for the cowl and one-third for the hat.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern is designed for 4-ply fingering weight yarn, with the sample shown in Woolfolk TYND, which is composed of 100% Ultimate Merino® wool. The pattern requires approximately 800 yards total of fingering weight yarn split evenly between four coordinating colors, with each color provided by a 50-gram skein yielding 223 yards. Knitters may substitute any fingering weight yarn of comparable yardage and fiber content.

Needles and Tools

The Gridlock pattern utilizes circular needles in multiple sizes to achieve proper gauge and construction:

• Cowl: US size 4 and 5 (3.5mm and 3.75mm) 16-inch circular needles
• Hat: US sizes 3, 4, and 5 (3.25mm, 3.5mm, and 3.75mm) 16-inch circular needles, plus US size 3 (3.25mm) double-pointed needles for smaller circumference sections

The use of multiple needle sizes allows for gauge adjustments and the transition from larger to smaller circumference sections as the hat is completed.

Gauge and Tension

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this pattern. The specified gauge is 28 stitches and 32 rounds equal 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked in the Gridlock Pattern on the largest needle (US size 5 or 3.75mm) in blocked fabric. Knitters are advised to take time to check gauge before beginning, as this affects the finished measurements of both the cowl and hat.

Stitches and Techniques

The Gridlock pattern employs a multi-color stranded knitting technique, requiring knitters to work with four colors simultaneously in a repeating pattern. Key stitches and techniques include:

• Gridlock Pattern: A stitch pattern worked over a multiple of 8 stitches, creating the signature textured or colorwork design that gives the project its name
• Knit through the back of the loop (k1tbl): A twisted knit stitch that adds texture and definition to the fabric
• Circular knitting: Both pieces are constructed in the round using circular needles, eliminating the need for seaming and creating seamless, tubular garments
• Color work: The pattern incorporates four distinct colors (designated as Color A, Color B, Color C, and Color D) worked in a coordinated sequence throughout the design

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills in circular knitting and basic colorwork techniques. The combination of multiple colors, gauge precision, and the need to work across two coordinated pieces requires attention to detail and familiarity with stranded knitting methods.

Design and Finishing

The Gridlock pattern is photographed by Gale Zucker and showcases the design in Woolfolk TYND colors 06, 08, 13, and 14, demonstrating how the four-color combination creates visual interest and depth. The pattern includes comprehensive abbreviations and stitch definitions to guide knitters through the construction process.