Squishy short rows

Squishy Short Rows Cowl by Dieuwke Schack-Mulligen

What Is Being Made

The Squishy Short Rows is an intermediate-level knitted cowl designed by Dieuwke Schack-Mulligen. This versatile neckwear piece features a unique construction method that combines three distinct geometric sections into one cohesive garment. The cowl measures approximately 64 cm (25 inches) in length and 60 cm (23½ inches) in circumference when relaxed and pre-blocked, making it a generous, comfortable neck accessory suitable for various styling preferences.

Construction and Design Sections

The cowl is pieced together from three different sections, each contributing distinct visual and structural elements to the finished piece:

• Straight section: Approximately 8 cm (3 inches) in height, this section provides the foundational structure
• Triangle-shaped section: Works in conjunction with the straight section to create dimension and shaping
• Bias section: The third component adds a diagonal element that contributes to the overall design aesthetic

Together, sections 1 and 2 measure approximately 20 cm (8 inches). This multi-section approach creates visual interest and allows for creative color blocking or pattern variation.

Knitting Techniques Used

The pattern employs short rows as its primary technique, which is reflected in the design name. Short rows are a foundational knitting method that involves turning the work before completing a full row, creating shaping and dimension without increasing or decreasing stitches in traditional ways. This technique is particularly effective for creating the curved, three-dimensional quality that makes this cowl distinctive. The pattern consists of nine steps that are repeated to build the complete garment, allowing knitters to develop rhythm and confidence with the short-row technique.

Stitches and Stitch Markers

While the PDF does not specify individual stitch abbreviations, the pattern requires the use of two different stitch markers during construction: one to mark the beginning of round and one to mark the middle of the round. This dual-marker system is essential for tracking progress and maintaining pattern accuracy throughout the knitting process, particularly when working with the short-row sections that require careful attention to turning points.

Yarn and Needles

One of the most appealing aspects of this pattern is its flexibility with yarn selection. The cowl can be created using any weight of yarn, from delicate lace weight to heavier worsted weight. Knitters may choose handspun or commercial yarn, and the design works beautifully in single colors, multiple colors, or variegated yarns, offering endless creative possibilities.

Yardage requirements: Approximately 400 meters of yarn is needed for one complete repeat of steps 1-9. However, yardage varies significantly depending on the yarn weight selected. The designer's lace weight sample used yarn that was 750 meters per 100 grams; for this sample, approximately half the skein was required for one complete pattern repeat, with the full skein providing enough yardage for two complete repeats of the pattern.

Needles: The pattern calls for 6mm (US 10) circular needles that are 60 cm (24 inches) long. Circular needles of this length are ideal for working in the round on a cowl-sized circumference and accommodate the three-section construction method.

Finished Measurements and Gauge Considerations

All finished measurements provided are relaxed and taken pre-blocking with no stretching applied. This is an important consideration for knitters planning their finished garment, as blocking may alter dimensions slightly depending on fiber content and personal blocking preferences. The generous circumference of approximately 60 cm (23½ inches) ensures the cowl drapes comfortably around the neck without constriction.