Paw-some Dog Cowl + Paw-some Infinity Scarf

Paw-some Dog Cowl and Paw-some Infinity Scarf by Stana D. Sortor

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern set includes two coordinating projects: a human-sized infinity scarf and a dog-sized cowl, both featuring a charming paw print motif. Designed by Stana D. Sortor, these pieces showcase intermediate-level knitting techniques and are worked primarily in the round using DPNs and circular needles. The projects are ideal for crafters looking to create matching accessories for themselves and their canine companions.

Human Infinity Scarf

Finished Measurements: 6 inches (15.5 cm) wide by 63 inches (160 cm) circumference

The human scarf is an infinity-style design that creates a continuous loop, eliminating the need for fastening. Its generous circumference allows for comfortable wearing with multiple wraps or a single loop around the neck. The 6-inch width provides substantial coverage while remaining lightweight and versatile.

Dog Cowl

Finished Measurements: Available in six sizes ranging from 2.75 inches (7 cm) wide by 9 inches (23 cm) circumference for the smallest dogs, up to 8 inches (20.25 cm) wide by 24 inches (61 cm) circumference for larger breeds. The intermediate sizes accommodate small to medium dogs.

The dog cowl is designed to slip over a dog's head and rest comfortably around the neck and shoulders. Multiple size options ensure proper fit across different dog breeds and sizes.

Stitches and Techniques

Both projects feature a paw print pattern as the primary design element. The pattern requires working in the round, a fundamental intermediate technique that creates seamless, tubular fabric. This method eliminates the need for seaming and produces a polished, professional finish.

• Knitting in the round using DPNs (double-pointed needles) and circular needles
• Colorwork knitting to create the paw print motif, requiring management of multiple yarn colors within rows
• Provisional cast-on technique (worked with crochet hook and scrap yarn or preferred method)
• Bind-off techniques for finishing edges
• Stitch marker usage for tracking pattern repeats and round beginnings

Yarn and Materials

Suggested Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash (100% superwash wool; 220 yards per 100 grams)

The pattern recommends specific colorways: Como Blue (#811) and Butterscotch (#853). For the human scarf, use 2 skeins of Como Blue as the main color and 1 skein of Butterscotch as the contrasting color. For the dog cowl, reverse the color usage with Butterscotch as the main color and Como Blue as the contrast.

• Human Scarf: 2 skeins main color, 1 skein contrasting color (approximately 440 yards total)
• Dog Cowl: 1 skein per color (approximately 220 yards total)
• Yarn weight: DK to worsted weight options

Needles and Notions

• US size 7 (4.5 mm) set of 5 double-pointed needles for working in the round
• US size 7 (4.5 mm) 16-inch circular needle for the dog cowl
• Tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats
• Crochet hook and scrap yarn for provisional cast-on
• Spare circular needle and DPNs as backup tools

Gauge and Finishing

Gauge: 20 stitches and 23 rows equal 4 inches (10 cm) in the paw print pattern after wet blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for correct finished measurements, particularly important when sizing the dog cowl for proper fit.

Wet blocking is recommended to even out stitches and set the paw print pattern definition, ensuring a polished final appearance for both projects.

Difficulty Level

These projects are rated at intermediate difficulty, making them suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle colorwork and in-the-round construction. The paw print mot