Broomstick Neckwarmer US terms

Broomstick Neckwarmer by Faye Lamb

What Is Being Made

The Broomstick Neckwarmer is a cylindrical cowl designed to be worn around the neck. This crocheted accessory features a textured broomstick lace pattern that creates an open, airy fabric perfect for layering. The finished piece is constructed by folding and seaming the crocheted rectangle into a tube shape, resulting in a versatile neckwarmer suitable for various seasons depending on yarn choice.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level project showcases the broomstick lace technique, a classic crochet method that combines traditional single crochet with a specialized broomstick needle to create decorative openwork sections. The pattern alternates between standard crochet rows and broomstick lace rows, building texture and visual interest throughout the piece.

The construction method involves creating a flat rectangular fabric that is then folded in half lengthwise with right sides together and seamed along the long edge. After turning the piece through to the right side, the short ends are matched and joined using whip stitch or overstitching, transforming the flat rectangle into a finished tubular cowl.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Single Crochet (sc): The foundation stitch used throughout the piece, appearing in rows 1-6 and repeated 10 times to build the main fabric body
• Chain Stitch (ch): Used at the beginning of rows to turn the work
• Broomstick Lace: The signature technique featured in rows 47-48, where loops are stretched onto a broomstick needle and then worked into groups of five single crochets, creating an open, lacy pattern
• Yarn Over (yoh): Used to draw up loops when working the broomstick lace sections

The pattern structure repeats rows 3-6 a total of 10 times before introducing the broomstick lace section in rows 47-48. This creates a balanced design with textured lace elements integrated into the overall fabric.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for Cygnet Helter Skelter in chunky weight. One 100g skein provides approximately 125 meters of yarn, which is sufficient to complete the neckwarmer. Chunky and worsted weight yarns are suitable for this design, offering good stitch definition and a fabric with appropriate drape and warmth.

Tools: A 6mm crochet hook is used for the main crochet work, while a 25mm broomstick needle is essential for executing the broomstick lace technique. The broomstick needle temporarily holds the loops that are then worked into groups, creating the distinctive openwork pattern.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a tension of 15 stitches and 6 rows (2 pattern repeats) over a 10cm square. Achieving proper gauge ensures the finished neckwarmer will have the intended dimensions and drape. After completing all 50 rows, ends are woven in and the piece is assembled through careful seaming to create a polished, finished accessory.