Bikube

Bikube Cowl by HelstrupDesign

What Is Being Made

Bikube is a two-color double knit cowl named after the Danish word for beehive. This downloadable knitting pattern offers two finished size options: a smaller circumference of 67 centimeters with a height of 24 centimeters, and a larger circumference of 100 centimeters, also 24 centimeters in height. The cowl is designed as an advanced-level knitting project suitable for experienced knitters seeking a more complex colorwork technique.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This pattern features double knit as its primary construction technique, a sophisticated method that creates a reversible fabric with color on both sides. The two-color double knit approach allows knitters to work with a main color and a contrast color simultaneously, building dimensional colorwork throughout the piece. The cowl is worked in the round using circular needles, which is the standard method for constructing seamless tubular garments like cowls and neck warmers.

The pattern includes detailed directions for casting on using the double knit method with two colors, which requires careful yarn management and understanding of how to position both the main color yarn and contrast color yarn during the initial setup. This casting technique sets the foundation for the reversible double knit structure throughout the entire cowl.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is double knit stockinette stitch, which is worked according to a provided chart. Double knit stockinette creates a smooth, dense fabric with stockinette appearance on both the front and reverse sides. The gauge for this pattern is 25 stitches and 35 rows per 10 by 10 centimeters when worked in double knit stockinette stitch, providing a reference point for achieving proper fit and fabric drape.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern calls for wool or wool blend yarn with a yardage of 150 meters per 50 grams skein. The designer specifically recommends Lang Yarns Merino 150 as a suitable option. The pictured sample was created using hand-dyed 100% Merino wool from Chester wool (Merino 300 line) paired with Italian wool Lane Cervinia Toledo yarn.

Yarn quantities vary by size:

• Small cowl: Main color 75-100 grams, Contrast color 75-100 grams
• Large cowl: Main color 150-200 grams, Contrast color 150-200 grams

A single 3 millimeter circular needle measuring 40-60 centimeters in length is required for working the cowl in the round. Additionally, a yarn needle is needed for weaving in ends after completion. The pattern emphasizes that knitters should select a needle size that achieves the specified gauge, as individual gauge varies among knitters and proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is classified as advanced, reflecting the complexity of double knit colorwork and the skill required to manage two colors simultaneously while maintaining consistent tension and following a chart pattern. Knitters should have solid foundational skills before attempting this project.