Scales Cowl

Scales Cowl by All Knit Up Designs

Project Overview

The Scales Cowl is an intermediate-level knitted cowl designed by Sierra Kreun of All Knit Up Designs. This downloadable PDF pattern offers knitters three distinct size options to accommodate different preferences and fit requirements. The cowl features a textured stitch pattern that creates a scaled appearance, making it a visually interesting neckwear accessory suitable for various skill levels within the intermediate range.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a cowl—a circular neckwear accessory that can be worn as a close-fitting neck warmer or draped loosely around the shoulders. The Scales Cowl is available in three sizes to suit different body types and styling preferences. Size 1 measures 26 inches in circumference with an 8-inch depth, Size 2 measures 30 inches in circumference with a 7-inch depth, and Size 3 is a generous 60-inch circumference with a 7-inch depth, offering a long wrap-style option.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for worsted weight yarn in quantities that vary by size. Size 1 and Size 2 each require 210 yards (192 meters), while Size 3 requires 420 yards (384 meters). The sample photographed in the pattern uses Malabrigo Rios, a 100% superwash merino yarn that provides softness, durability, and easy care. Each 100-gram skein of Malabrigo Rios contains 210 yards of yarn.

Needles required are US 8 (5 mm) circular needles. Knitters may choose between a 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle for the smaller sizes or a 32-inch (80 cm) circular needle for Size 3 or if preferred for working smaller circumferences using the magic loop or two-circular-needle method. One stitch marker and a darning needle for weaving in ends complete the notions list.

Techniques and Stitches

The Scales Cowl employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern uses a 3x2 ribbing stitch as its primary stitch pattern, which creates vertical columns of texture and elasticity. Ribbing is a classic knit-purl combination that provides both visual interest and functional stretch.

The pattern incorporates several standard knitting abbreviations and techniques:

• Knit (K): The basic knit stitch
• Purl (P): The basic purl stitch
• Yarn Over (YO): A decorative increase that creates an eyelet or lace effect
• Slip Stitch Knitwise (Sl): Slipping a stitch without working it
• Pass Slip Stitch Over (PSSO): A decrease technique used in lace and textured patterns

The cowl is worked in the round using circular needles, which allows for seamless construction and continuous pattern work. This method is ideal for neckwear as it eliminates the need for seaming.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches by 26 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in 3x2 ribbing and blocked. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly with a fitted neckwear accessory. The pattern recommends blocking after completion to set the stitches and ensure accurate measurements.

Pattern Construction

The Scales Cowl begins with a cast-on of either 104, 124, or 248 stitches depending on the selected size. The cast-on number is carefully calculated to accommodate the ribbing pattern and desired finished circumference. Working in the round from this cast-on edge, knitters will follow the stitch pattern instructions to create the scaled texture characteristic of this design.