Pitched cowl

Pitched Cowl by Katherine Vaughan

What is Being Made

The Pitched Cowl is an intermediate-level knitted neck accessory designed by Katherine Vaughan. This cowl features a distinctive ripple effect created through strategic lace patterning. The finished piece measures 22.5 inches in circumference by 7.5 inches in height, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various necklines and styling preferences.

Design and Construction Technique

The defining characteristic of the Pitched Cowl is its alternating blocks of lace stitches that create a dynamic visual movement. The designer employs k2tog (knit two stitches together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) decreases arranged in opposing blocks that pull the fabric alternately to the right and to the left. This directional tension creates the signature ripple or pitched effect, which is particularly striking when knit in a striped yarn. The lace pattern itself is designed for accessibility, featuring only two true patterned rows that repeat throughout the body of the cowl, making it manageable for intermediate knitters.

Stitches and Abbreviations Used

The Pitched Cowl incorporates fundamental knitting stitches combined with lace techniques:

• K (Knit): The basic knit stitch forms the foundation of the fabric
• P (Purl): Purl stitches are used in the garter stitch border
• K2tog (Knit two stitches together): A right-leaning decrease that forms one side of the lace blocks
• Ssk (Slip, slip, knit): A left-leaning decrease that forms the opposing lace blocks
• YO (Yarn over): Creates the openwork characteristic of lace patterning

The cowl begins with a three-round garter stitch border worked in the round, which provides a finished edge and structural stability before transitioning into the lace body.

Materials and Specifications

This cowl is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn, requiring approximately 137 yards (125 meters) of yarn. The pattern calls for one set of US8 (5mm) circular needles measuring 20 inches, along with a stitch marker to track the beginning of each round and a yarn needle for finishing. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 30 rows to 4 inches (10 centimeters) in pattern stitch, which should be verified before beginning to ensure proper finished dimensions.

Construction Method

The Pitched Cowl is constructed in the round using circular needles, beginning with a cast-on of 96 stitches. This seamless construction method creates a continuous tube that requires no seaming, resulting in a smooth, comfortable wearing experience. The pattern progresses from the garter stitch border at the bottom through the lace body, with shaping and stitch manipulation creating the ripple effect throughout.