Thorndale Cowl

Thorndale Cowl by Martha Wissing

What is Being Made

The Thorndale Cowl is a knitted neck accessory designed by Martha Wissing. This cowl features a finished circumference of 31 inches (79 cm) and a height of 11¾ inches (30 cm), making it a substantial, versatile piece suitable for layering or wearing as a statement accessory. The cowl is worked in the round from the bottom up, creating a seamless, tubular construction that provides comfortable wear around the neck.

Techniques and Construction Method

This intermediate-level knitting project uses the bottom-up circular knitting technique, worked continuously in the round on circular needles. The cowl showcases the Thorn Stitch pattern, a multi-color textured stitch that creates visual interest and dimensional detail. The pattern is described as simple to work despite its sophisticated appearance, making it an excellent choice for knitters developing their skills beyond basic stockinette stitch.

The Thorn Stitch pattern cleverly employs slip stitches combined with strategic decreases to build its distinctive texture. The pattern uses k2tog (knit two together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) decreases to shape the stitch pattern while maintaining the integrity of the fabric. By working with one color per round and using these shaping techniques, the designer creates a multi-color effect without the complexity of traditional stranded colorwork.

Stitches Used

• Slip stitch (sl st) – Used to create the textured Thorn Stitch pattern
• Knit stitch (k) – The foundation stitch for the cowl
• Knit two together (k2tog) – A right-leaning decrease that shapes the pattern
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – A left-leaning decrease that shapes the pattern
• Purl stitch (p) – Likely used as part of the Thorn Stitch pattern structure

Materials and Specifications

The Thorndale Cowl is designed to work with DK weight yarn, a versatile medium weight that creates fabric with excellent drape and stitch definition. The pattern calls for approximately 440 total yards of yarn, distributed across two contrasting colors.

The original design specifies two hanks of NICE & KNIT DK yarn (100 grams / 230 yards per hank) in the colorways September and Ahoy. However, the pattern is flexible and accommodates any two contrasting colors of DK weight yarn, each providing approximately 220 yards, allowing knitters to customize their cowl with personal color preferences.

The project requires two sizes of 24-inch circular knitting needles: a size 7 (4.5 mm) needle for the main fabric and a size 6 (4 mm) needle for the cast-on edge. This two-needle approach creates a professional finish with a slightly tighter edge that prevents rolling. A stitch marker is essential for tracking the beginning of each round in this in-the-round construction.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 34 rounds over 4 inches (10.2 cm) when worked in the Thorn Stitch pattern. Achieving proper gauge is critical for this project, as it directly affects the finished circumference and height of the cowl. The pattern emphasizes checking gauge before beginning to ensure the cowl will fit properly and display the Thorn Stitch pattern at its intended scale. The cowl is offered in one size, designed to fit most adult neck measurements comfortably.