Spiked Cowl

Spiked Cowl by Kendall Nahorniak

What is Being Made

The Spiked Cowl is a crocheted neck accessory designed by independent designer Kendall Nahorniak. This intermediate-level project creates a textured cowl featuring dimensional spike stitches that add visual interest and depth to the finished piece. The cowl is worked in the round using worsted weight yarn, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various skill levels beyond complete beginners.

Crochet Techniques Used

This design showcases the innovative use of spike stitches, a specialized crochet technique that creates dimensional texture by working stitches into previous rounds rather than the current round. The spike stitch technique allows crafters to build layered, three-dimensional effects within a relatively simple circular construction. The pattern demonstrates four variations of spike stitches, each working into different depths of the previous rounds to create the characteristic spiked appearance.

The cowl is constructed using fundamental crochet methods including working in the round and joining rounds with slip stitches. This construction method ensures a seamless, tube-like garment that fits comfortably around the neck.

Stitches Used

• Single Crochet (sc) — the foundation stitch used throughout the project
• Chain Stitch (ch) — used for foundation and turning chains
• Slip Stitch (slst) — used to join rounds seamlessly
• Spike Stitch-a (sp-a) — single crochet worked one round below the current round
• Spike Stitch-b (sp-b) — single crochet worked two rounds below the current round
• Spike Stitch-c (sp-c) — single crochet worked three rounds below the current round
• Spike Stitch-d (sp-d) — single crochet worked four rounds below the current round

Materials and Tools

This project requires 180 to 200 yards of worsted weight yarn. Kendall Nahorniak recommends Malabrigo Merino Worsted as the ideal yarn choice, which provides excellent stitch definition for showcasing the spike stitch texture. A 5.00mm (size H) crochet hook is used to work with the worsted weight yarn at the specified gauge.

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 12 single crochet stitches over 4 inches (10.16 cm) in width and 7 rows of single crochet stitches over 4 inches (10.16 cm) in depth. Achieving proper gauge ensures the finished cowl will have the correct dimensions and drape.

Pattern Notes

The pattern uses US crochet terminology and includes clear abbreviations and special stitch definitions. The spike stitch variations are illustrated with color-coded arrows to help crafters understand which previous round to work into, making this intermediate project accessible to those ready to expand their stitch repertoire beyond basic techniques.