Two Color Fair Isle Cowl in Cascade ReVive - W824 - Downloadable PDF

Two Color Fair Isle Cowl in Cascade ReVive

What is Being Made

This is a knitted cowl designed by Michael Harrigan, a circular accessory that measures 12 inches in height with a 25-inch circumference. The cowl is worked in the round using a two-color Fair Isle pattern, creating a visually striking design with contrasting colors. This project is ideal for knitters seeking an intermediate-level accessory that combines classic colorwork techniques with modern sustainable materials.

Yarn and Materials

The cowl is crafted using Cascade Yarns ReVive, a worsted-weight yarn made from 100% recycled wool. The project requires two skeins of this yarn: one skein of Color A (Charcoal, #19) and one skein of Color B (Rich Gold, #06). Each skein contains 100 grams (3.5 ounces) and yields 197 yards (180 meters), making this a yarn-efficient project that uses approximately one full skein of each color.

Needles and Tools

This pattern calls for a US 8 (5.0 mm) 16-inch circular knitting needle, or whatever size is necessary to achieve the specified gauge. Additional tools include a yarn needle for weaving in ends and one stitch marker to denote the beginning of each round.

Knitting Techniques Used

The cowl employs several fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The project begins with a long-tail cast-on method, a foundational technique that creates a secure and elastic edge. The main body of the cowl features Fair Isle colorwork, a traditional stranded knitting technique where two colors are carried across the back of the work to create intricate patterned designs. This method requires managing multiple yarn colors simultaneously while maintaining consistent tension.

Stitches and Stitch Pattern

The cowl construction incorporates several key stitches and pattern elements:

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) Stitches: The foundational stitches that form all knitted fabric
• K1P1 Ribbing: The cowl begins with five rounds of alternating knit and purl stitches in single-stitch ribbing, worked entirely in Color A. This ribbed section creates an elastic edge that helps the cowl maintain its shape and fit comfortably around the neck
• Fair Isle Pattern from Chart 1: Following the ribbed cuff, the pattern transitions to a nine-round Fair Isle chart that establishes the two-color design. The pattern alternates between Color B and Color A, with specific rounds worked in each color to create the characteristic Fair Isle motif

Construction Method

The cowl is constructed in the round using circular needles, a technique that eliminates the need for seaming and creates a seamless, continuous tube. The pattern begins by casting on 120 stitches in Color A and joining them in the round with a stitch marker placed at the beginning. The ribbed cuff is worked first to establish structure, followed by the Fair Isle colorwork section that comprises the main body of the finished piece.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a gauge of 19 stitches by 22 rounds equals 4 inches (10 centimeters) when measured in the Fair Isle pattern and after blocking. Achieving this gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements of 12 inches in height and 25 inches in circumference. Blocking the finished cowl helps even out the colorwork and ensures accurate dimensions.

Skill Level and Suitability

This project is rated as Intermediate, making it appropriate for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their technique repertoire. While the basic stitches involved are straightforward, the Fair Isle colorwork technique requires practice managing two colors and maintaining even tension throughout the pattern repeats. The circular needle construction and the relatively small circumference make this a manageable introduction to stranded colorwork.

Sustainability and Yarn Choice

The use of Cascade Yarns ReVive, composed of 100% recycled wool, reflects a commitment to sustainable fiber crafting. This eco-conscious yarn choice does not compromise on quality or performance, delivering the durability and warmth expected from traditional wool while reducing environmental impact. The worsted weight provides excellent stitch definition for displaying the Fair Isle pattern clearly.