The DeVille Cowl

The DeVille Cowl by Colleen Webster

What is Being Made

The DeVille Cowl is an intermediate-level crochet cowl designed by Colleen Webster. This finished piece measures 13.5" x 13.5" when laid flat after seaming, making it a substantial neck accessory suitable for layering and cold-weather wear.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This cowl is constructed using fundamental crochet techniques worked in the round. The pattern employs a seaming method to finish the piece, utilizing a whip stitch—a simple sewing technique commonly used to seam knitwear with a yarn needle. The designer notes that she chains 1 to begin new rounds rather than the more traditional chain 2, as this approach creates a cleaner seam line.

The pattern incorporates working into the third loop of half double crochet stitches. The third loop is located on the back of each HDC stitch, distinct from the front and back loops. Additionally, the pattern uses the back bump of the foundation chain—the bumps visible on the reverse side of the chain—as anchor points for stitches.

Stitches Used

• Chain (Ch) - foundation and transition stitch
• Half Double Crochet (HDC) - primary stitch throughout the pattern
• Slip Stitch (Sl St) - used to join rounds

Materials and Gauge

The DeVille Cowl requires an L hook (7mm) or whichever hook size produces the correct gauge. The pattern calls for 550 yards of Bulky (category 5) weight yarn. The designer used Lion Brand Woolspun for the sample, though any bulky-weight yarn of similar characteristics will work. A yarn needle is needed for weaving in ends after completion.

The gauge is 4" = 11.5 stitches x 9 rows in pattern stitch, worked in the round. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions of 13.5" x 13.5".

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to work with techniques such as third-loop stitching and seaming methods.