Libration

Libration Cowl by Alicia Plummer

What is Being Made

Libration is a knitted cowl designed by Alicia Plummer in one size fits all (OSFA). This finished piece measures 33 inches (84 cm) around the base circumference and 11 inches (28 cm) in height, making it a versatile neckwear accessory suitable for a range of wearers.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental techniques. The cowl begins with a long tail cast on method, which creates a sturdy, elastic foundation edge. The pattern is worked in the round using circular needles, a technique that eliminates seaming and creates seamless, tubular fabric. The design incorporates garter stitch ridges at the beginning and a repeating 16-round stitch pattern worked across multiple needle sizes to create graduated shaping and texture variation.

Stitches Used

The Libration cowl uses basic knitting stitches including knit (k) and purl (p) stitches. These fundamental stitches are combined in a 16-round repeat pattern that is worked twice during construction, once on larger needles and again on medium-sized needles. The pattern begins with 6 rounds of garter stitch (alternating knit and purl rounds), which creates horizontal ridges and adds textural interest to the finished cowl.

Materials and Yardage

This project requires 218 yards (199 meters) of yarn. The suggested yarn is Roar! by Lioness Arts, a 100% superwash merino option that provides 109 yards per 100 grams (3.53 ounces). Chunky weight yarn is used throughout this design, creating a quick-knitting project with excellent drape and warmth.

Needles and Notions

• Circular needles in three sizes: US 11/8.0mm (24 inches/61 cm), US 10.5/6.5mm (24 inches/61 cm), and US 9/5.5mm (24 inches/61 cm)
• Notions: 1 place marker and a darning needle for weaving in ends
• Gauge: 12 stitches and 16 rows measure 4 inches (10 cm) in stitch pattern on US size 11/8.0mm needles when blocked

Pattern Construction

The Libration cowl is constructed by casting on 100 stitches using the long tail method, then joining to work in the round while being careful not to twist the stitches. A place marker indicates the beginning of the round. The first 6 rounds establish garter stitch ridges (3 ridges total). The main 16-round stitch pattern repeat is then worked once on the largest needles (US 11/8.0mm), followed by a needle size change to US 10.5/6.5mm needles where the 16-round repeat is worked a second time. This graduated needle approach creates subtle shaping and texture variation within the cowl.