Mishka Cowl

Mishka Cowl by Kourtney Robinson

What is Being Made

The Mishka Cowl is a luxurious, oversized cowl neck accessory designed by Kourtney Robinson for Dollybird Workshop. This knitted cowl measures 24cm (9.5 inches) wide by 61.5cm (24¼ inches) in length when blocked, making it a substantial, statement piece that drapes generously around the neck. The design evolved from the original Mishka scarf, refined into a cowl format that combines elegance with practical wearability.

Techniques and Construction Methods

The Mishka Cowl employs several intermediate to advanced knitting techniques that create visual interest and functional design elements. Yarn overs (YO's) are strategically placed along each edge of the cowl, creating decorative eyelets that serve a dual purpose: they can be used for lacing the cowl closed or as attachment points for decorative buttons sewn together as 'cufflinks.' This innovative closure system allows knitters to customize the finished look and fit of the garment.

The pattern includes a lace section worked from a chart, adding textural depth and visual sophistication to the design. The combination of stockinette stitch sections with lace patterning creates contrast and interest throughout the piece. Knitters have the flexibility to modify the yarn-over placement: those preferring traditional buttonholes can omit the YO's on one side, or stitch them closed after blocking for a seamless appearance.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch: The primary stitch used throughout most of the cowl, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Yarn overs (YO): Decorative increases that create eyelets along the edges for the unique closure system
• SSK (slip, slip, knit): A left-leaning decrease used in edge shaping
• K2tog (knit two together): A right-leaning decrease used in edge shaping
• Lace stitches: Charted lace pattern (Chart B) that adds textural dimension to the cowl

Yarn and Materials

The Mishka Cowl is crafted using Malabrigo Rasta yarn, a premium super-chunky weight yarn composed of 100% Merino Wool. One skein is required to complete the project, with each skein containing 90 yards (82 meters) and weighing 5.29 ounces (150 grams). This substantial yarn weight allows the cowl to knit up quickly into a satisfying finished project.

Construction requires US #17 (12mm) straight needles, which are appropriately sized for the super-chunky yarn weight. The gauge is 8 stitches over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, which is typical for this yarn weight and needle size combination.

For finishing, knitters will need either 5 buttons measuring 1¼ inches (3cm) in diameter for the buttoned style closure, or 10 buttons of the same size for the cufflink style option. A sewing needle and thread are required to attach the buttons securely to the completed cowl.

Difficulty Level and Project Characteristics

Rated as an advanced knitting project, the Mishka Cowl is suited for experienced knitters who are comfortable reading charts and executing lace techniques. Despite its advanced classification, the pattern is described as "a quick, satisfying knit," making it an excellent choice for skilled crafters seeking a project that delivers impressive results without requiring extensive time investment. The super-chunky yarn weight contributes to the rapid knitting pace, allowing the cowl to progress from cast-on to finished garment relatively quickly compared to projects using finer yarn weights.