Cowl Trick

Cowl Trick by Mary E Rose Designs

What is Being Made

The Cowl Trick is a completely seamless and reversible knitted cowl designed by Mary E Rose. This innovative neckwear piece measures 18 inches wide by 11 inches tall when unstretched (46 by 28 centimeters). The reversible construction means the cowl can be worn either way—inside out or inside in—giving knitters flexibility in how they display their finished project. The name references the sports term "hat trick," reimagined as a "cowl trick" that showcases the garment's unique construction properties.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to achieve its seamless, reversible construction. The cowl is worked in the round using circular needles, eliminating the need for seaming. The design incorporates a clever construction method that allows the finished piece to be worn reversibly, meaning both sides of the fabric are intentionally finished and attractive. Knitters will need to pick up stitches as part of the construction process, and the pattern provides flexibility for customizing the width by adding stitches in multiples of seven with corresponding adjustments to the pick-ups.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, the project utilizes chart-based instructions for at least a portion of the design. The pattern is worked in the round on a circular needle, and the construction involves picking up stitches to create the reversible element. The gauge is 23 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches (10 centimeters), which is typical for aran-weight yarn and helps knitters achieve the proper fabric density and finished dimensions.

Materials and Yarn

The Cowl Trick pattern calls for Valley Yarns Valley Superwash, a 100% Extra Fine Merino yarn. The yardage requirement is 98 yards per 50 grams (89 meters per 1.76 ounces). Knitters will need 2 balls of the main color (MC) in Biscuit and 1 ball of the contrasting color (CC) in Red. This aran-weight yarn provides excellent stitch definition and the superwash treatment makes the finished cowl easy to care for.

Needles and Notions

Construction requires US Size 8 (5mm) circular needles measuring 16 inches (40 centimeters), or the size needed to obtain the specified gauge when working in the round. A large-eyed tapestry needle is necessary for weaving in the ends after completing the project. The 16-inch circular needle is an ideal length for working cowls and smaller circumference projects in the round.

Customization Options

The Cowl Trick pattern offers flexibility for adjusting the finished width. Knitters who prefer a wider cowl can increase the stitch count in multiples of seven, with corresponding adjustments made to the pick-up stitches. This modularity makes the pattern adaptable to individual preferences while maintaining the integrity of the reversible design.