Every Which Way Cowl

Every Which Way Cowl by Janelle Martin

What Is Being Made

The Every Which Way Cowl is an advanced beginner-level knitted cowl designed by Janelle Martin. This is a generous, wearable neck accessory that stretches to 56 inches (142.25 cm) in circumference and measures 8.75 inches (22.23 cm) in width when blocked. The cowl is designed to be worn wrapped around the neck, providing warmth and style with its textured construction.

Yarn and Materials

This cowl requires 419 yards (383 meters) of merino and wool blend yarn in worsted or aran weight. The original design was created using Bare Naked Wools 'Confection' yarn in two complementary shades of grey. The yarn features natural figuring and excellent elasticity, making it a pleasure to work with. The merino and wool blend provides both softness and durability, with the yarn knitting up at a gauge of 3.75 to 4.5 stitches per inch.

Needles and Tools

The pattern calls for one US #9 (5.5 mm) circular needle measuring 32 inches (80 cm), or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. The circular needle format allows for seamless, in-the-round knitting, which creates a continuous fabric without seams.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) when measured over Chart A in the unblocked state. Achieving this gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions of 56 inches circumference by 8.75 inches wide after stretching and blocking.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Every Which Way Cowl employs charted stitch patterns as the primary construction method. The pattern includes Chart A, which serves as the foundation for the textured design. This advanced beginner project incorporates stitch pattern reading and execution, requiring knitters to follow a chart while working in the round on circular needles.

The use of a charted pattern suggests the cowl features a repeating motif or texture that creates visual interest and dimension. The design takes advantage of the yarn's natural spring and elasticity, allowing the stitches to bloom and the fabric to develop its full textured appearance through blocking.

Construction Method

This cowl is constructed using in-the-round knitting on a circular needle, which eliminates the need for seaming and creates a seamless, professional finish. The generous yardage available in the Bare Naked Wools 'Confection' skeins provided enough yarn not only for the cowl but also for coordinating projects, including a matching hat and fingerless mitts.

Skill Level and Complexity

Rated as Advanced Beginner, this cowl is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic knitting techniques and are ready to tackle charted stitch patterns. The project requires competency in reading knitting charts, maintaining consistent gauge, and working in the round with circular needles. The straightforward rectangular shape makes it an ideal project for developing pattern-reading skills without the added complexity of shaping.

Design Inspiration

The Every Which Way Cowl was inspired by the exceptional qualities of the Bare Naked Wools 'Confection' yarn. The designer selected two complementary grey shades to showcase the yarn's natural figuring and elasticity. The pattern emerged organically during the design process, with the cowl knitting up quickly once the stitch pattern was conceived, demonstrating how the right yarn can inspire creative design solutions.