Sunwick

Sunwick Cowl by Donna Smith

What is Being Made

The Sunwick cowl is a neck warmer designed to fit snugly around the neck for winter warmth. This knitted cowl features an urban-inspired aesthetic with geometric lines, patterns, and textures created through strategic colourwork. The pattern offers three finished sizes to suit different preferences: Small measuring 25.5cm (10in) wide, Medium at 27.5cm (10.75in) wide, and Large at 29cm (11.5in) wide. All sizes measure 24cm (9.5in) when laid flat. The cowl was originally featured in Tribe Magazine, published by the Edinburgh Yarn Festival in 2017, with two larger sizes subsequently added to the original design.

Techniques Used

The Sunwick cowl employs colourwork knitting as its primary decorative technique, creating an all-over patterned design inspired by urban environments. The cowl is knit in the round, beginning with a central "roll" of edging that establishes the foundation. The construction method involves picking up stitches from the top border to complete the garment, adding structural interest and texture. Two-colour sections are strategically bordered by rolls of stockinette stitch, which provides visual contrast and textural variation throughout the piece. This combination of colourwork and textured edging creates a sophisticated, layered appearance suitable for a beginner-friendly project.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Sunwick cowl is stockinette stitch, worked in the round to create a smooth, classic fabric base. The colourwork pattern is executed in stockinette stitch as well, allowing the two-colour sections to stand out clearly against the background. The edging rolls, which frame the colourwork sections, are also worked in stockinette stitch, creating subtle textural definition through strategic placement rather than stitch variation.

Materials

The Sunwick cowl is knitted using Langsoond Double Knitting yarn, a premium yarn composed of 100% Shetland Wool. Each skein contains 220 metres (238 yards) and weighs 100 grams. Double Knitting weight yarn is a versatile mid-weight option that works well for garments requiring both drape and structure. The recommended gauge is 25 stitches and 30 rounds to 10cm (4 inches) over colourwork in stockinette stitch, which should be achieved with appropriate knitting needles sized for DK weight yarn. The natural Shetland wool provides warmth, elasticity, and durability ideal for a neck cowl designed to withstand regular winter wear.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent introduction to colourwork knitting. While the two-colour pattern work might seem complex, the straightforward stockinette stitch base and simple construction method—knitting in the round with stitch pickup—keep the project accessible to newer knitters. The beginner classification suggests that the colourwork is manageable for those new to this technique, with clear instructions supporting the process.