Montebello Texture Cowl

Montebello Texture Cowl by Melynda Bernardi

What is Being Made

The Montebello Texture Cowl is a one-size-fits-all cowl designed by Melynda Bernardi of French Press Knits, LLC. This scarflette measures 24 inches (61 cm) in length and features a distinctive textured pattern created through strategic yarn overs and slip stitches. The cowl is constructed as a flat piece that can be worn as a versatile neck accessory, offering both warmth and visual interest through its carefully engineered stitch pattern.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create its signature texture. The pattern utilizes yarn overs (yo) to create decorative holes and openwork elements throughout the fabric. Slip stitches (sl1) are strategically incorporated to add visual depth and create the textured appearance that defines this cowl. The pass slip stitch over (psso) technique is used in combination with knit stitches to create decrease sequences that shape the pattern repeats. The cowl is worked flat in rows, beginning with a cast-on of 12 stitches and progressing through multiple pattern repeats until the desired length is achieved.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k): The foundational stitch used throughout the pattern to create stockinette sections and textured rows
• Purl (p): Used to create reverse stockinette sections and add dimensional contrast to the knit stitches
• Yarn Over (yo): Creates decorative openwork and lace-like elements within the texture pattern
• Slip Stitch (sl1): Used in combination with decreases to create the distinctive textured appearance
• Pass Slip Stitch Over (psso): A decrease technique paired with slip stitches to shape the pattern and control stitch count

Materials and Tools

The Montebello Texture Cowl requires approximately 90 yards of super bulky yarn. The pattern is pictured using Cascade Magnum, a popular super bulky weight option that works beautifully for this project. Knitters will need US 15 (10mm) needles to achieve the proper gauge. The pattern specifies a gauge of 2 stitches per inch, which is typical for super bulky yarn worked on larger needles and creates the substantial, quick-knitting fabric characteristic of this weight category.