Glengrove Cowl

Glengrove Cowl by Laura Chau

What is Being Made

The Glengrove Cowl is a cozy, versatile neckwear piece designed by Laura Chau. This knitted cowl is worked flat from end to end and can be made in two sizes: a Single Loop version with 22.5" circumference or a Double Loop version with 46" circumference. Both versions measure 8" in width, making this a practical accessory suitable for various styling preferences and neck sizes.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This beginner-friendly cowl employs a flat knitting construction method, meaning the piece is worked back and forth on straight needles rather than in the round. The cowl is then seamed to form the loop shape. The design features a ribbed chevron pattern that creates visual interest while remaining accessible to newer knitters. The chevron effect is achieved through simple increases and decreases strategically placed throughout the pattern repeat, making this an excellent project for practicing fundamental shaping techniques.

A notable feature of the Glengrove Cowl is its reversible fabric—the pattern looks attractive from both sides, allowing for versatile wear and styling options. The technical editing by Laura Cameron ensures clear, accurate instructions throughout the pattern.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Glengrove Cowl utilizes several key knitting stitches and techniques:

• Knit stitch (k): The foundational stitch used throughout the project
• Make 1 Left (m1L): An increase worked by lifting the horizontal bar between stitches from front to back with the left needle tip, then knitting through the back loop
• Make 1 Right (m1R): An increase worked by lifting the horizontal bar between stitches from back to front with the left needle tip, then knitting through the front loop
• Centred Double Decrease (CDD): A decrease technique that slips 2 stitches together as if to knit 2 together, knits 1 stitch, then passes the 2 slipped stitches over, resulting in 2 stitches decreased. This creates a centered, visually balanced decrease that contributes to the chevron pattern

One complete pattern repeat consists of 20 stitches and measures 2.75" in width. The gauge is 32 stitches and 24 rows over a 4" square when worked in pattern, which is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Glengrove Cowl is designed for worsted weight yarn, a medium-weight yarn that works up relatively quickly while providing good structure and drape for a cowl. The pattern calls for 4.5mm / US 7 needles for working the main fabric flat.

Additional materials include a Size G / 4.0mm crochet hook and waste yarn for creating a provisional cast-on (optional), as well as an extra needle for the Three-Needle Bind-off finishing technique. Knitters should adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the specified gauge of 32 stitches and 24 rows per 4" square.

This beginner-appropriate project combines simple shaping techniques with a visually striking pattern, making it an ideal choice for knitters looking to expand their skills while creating a wearable, reversible accessory.