Arrowverse Cowl

Arrowverse Cowl by Rastus Hsu

What is Being Made

The Arrowverse Cowl is a highly texturized unisex cowl designed by Rastus Hsu. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a finished cowl measuring 30 cm (11.8") in width and 65 cm (25.5") in length, making it a versatile neckwear piece suitable for a range of body types and styling preferences.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting pattern incorporates several advanced techniques that elevate it beyond basic knitting. The construction begins with a provisional cast-on using a crochet hook, a method that allows for a seamless join when the piece is completed. The pattern employs cable knitting as a central design element, creating the distinctive arrow-like visual texture that gives the cowl its name. The pattern is worked flat rather than in the round, and finishing is accomplished using the Kitcherer stitch (also known as grafting), which creates an invisible seam and joins the two ends of the cowl together seamlessly.

Stitches Used

The Arrowverse Cowl features a combination of stitch patterns to create its textured appearance. Stockinette stitch forms the base fabric and provides smooth sections that contrast with the dimensional elements. The defining feature is the central arrow-like cable stitch, which creates the pattern's signature texture and visual interest. This cable pattern is worked throughout the length of the cowl to produce the three-dimensional, highly texturized fabric described in the pattern.

Materials and Tools

The pattern calls for approximately 600 meters (655 yards) of worsted weight yarn. The designer specifies Brooklyn Tweed Shelter, a premium yarn composed of 100% American Targhee-Columbia wool, with 5 skeins of 50g each (128 meters or 140 yards per skein) in the Long Johns colorway. Knitting is worked on 5.0mm U.S. Size 8 needles, which can be either circular or straight needles depending on your preference for working flat.

Additional tools and materials required include a cable needle for manipulating stitches during cable work, stitch markers to track pattern repeats, a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends, at least 2 meters of scrap yarn (preferably cotton) for the provisional cast-on, and a 5mm crochet hook to create the provisional cast-on edge. Gauge is measured at 18.5 stitches and 28 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) in stockinette stitch, and 24 stitches and 30 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) in the central arrow-like cable stitch, both measured after blocking with 5.0mm U.S. Size 8 needles.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their technical abilities. The pattern description identifies it as appropriate for adventurous beginners who have experience with crochet provisional cast-ons, basic cable knitting, and the Kitchenger stitch. Knitters should be comfortable reading cable charts and managing multiple techniques within a single project.