Piedras Blancas Cowl

Piedras Blancas Cowl by Selena Miskin

What is Being Made

The Piedras Blancas Cowl is a versatile knitted cowl designed by Selena Miskin of WayfaringYarns Designs. This project offers two size options: a long version measuring 18.5 inches in length with a top circumference of 25 inches and bottom circumference of 28 inches, and a shorter version at 11.5 inches in length with a 25-inch circumference. The cowl is inspired by the natural beauty of Piedras Blancas Beach on the California coast, capturing the movement of shifting sands, stones, and the gentle rhythm of the Pacific Ocean in its design.

Techniques Used

This cowl employs a combination of lace knitting and textured stitch techniques to create visual interest and movement. The design features a checked lace pattern as the central design element, which creates an open, airy aesthetic. This lace pattern is strategically bordered with rounds of granite stitch, a dense and textured knit stitch that frames the delicate lace work. The granite stitch borders serve a functional purpose beyond aesthetics—they actively encourage a luscious drape, allowing the finished cowl to hang elegantly and move fluidly around the neck.

Stitches Used

• Checked lace pattern (central design element)
• Granite stitch (border rounds)

Materials and Specifications

The Piedras Blancas Cowl is worked in sport weight yarn, making it suitable for creating a lightweight yet substantial garment. The long version requires 634 yards (580 meters) of yarn, while the short version uses 400 yards (366 meters). The pattern is demonstrated using Mrs. Crosby Hat Box yarn in the Peacock colorway, which features a luxurious blend of 75% merino wool, 15% silk, and 10% cashmere. This fiber content provides softness, sheen, and temperature regulation. The original sample required 2 skeins of the Mrs. Crosby yarn (317 yards per 100-gram skein), though any sport weight yarn of appropriate yardage may be substituted.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable working with lace patterns and multiple stitch techniques in the round.