Aurora Borealis Cowl

Aurora Borealis Cowl by Stacey Lewis

What is Being Made

The Aurora Borealis Cowl is a close-fitting, two-color circular cowl designed by Stacey Lewis. This neck accessory features a finished circumference of 9.25 inches (23 cm) and a length of 19.5 inches (50 cm), making it an ideal cold weather accessory. The cowl is knit in the round using a traditional Latvian circular needle technique, creating a seamless garment that sits comfortably around the neck.

Techniques Used

This cowl employs stranded knitting, a two-color colorwork technique where both yarn colors are carried throughout the round. The pattern utilizes a sun motif worked in the contrasting color against the background color. The design demonstrates the symmetrical nature of traditional Latvian knitting patterns, which is particularly beneficial for knitters new to stranded colorwork. The pattern specifically notes the absence of long floats, making it an excellent beginner-friendly introduction to two-color knitting techniques.

The cowl begins with a corrugated ribbing at the cast-on edge, which involves alternating stitches between the two colors to create a textured, elastic foundation. This ribbing technique helps the cowl maintain its fitted shape and provides structural integrity.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (primary stitch for stockinette base)
• Stranded knitting stitches (carrying two colors)
• Corrugated ribbing (alternating color knit stitches)

Materials and Specifications

The Aurora Borealis Cowl requires 130 yards each of background and motif colors in fingering weight yarn, for a total of 260 yards. The sample was knit using Madelinetosh TML + Glitter in multicolor for the motif color and 100% pure wool in white for the background color. Knitters should use Size 4 US needles (3.5 mm circular needles), or the size needed to achieve the correct gauge. The pattern calls for casting on 132 stitches, which are joined to work in the round.

The finished cowl is described as both soft and lofty due to the fluffy nature of fingering weight yarns, ensuring it becomes a cherished cold weather accessory. The yarn choice directly impacts the final texture and drape of the garment.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it introduces stranded knitting techniques, the symmetrical chart design and absence of long floats make it accessible for crafters just beginning their two-color knitting journey. Knitters should be comfortable with basic circular needle techniques and joining to knit in the round before attempting this project.