Texas Flood

Texas Flood Cowl by Laurie Beardsley

Design Inspiration and Overview

Texas Flood is a knitted cowl designed by Laurie Beardsley, inspired by the music of Stevie Ray Vaughan and the atmosphere of a stormy spring night. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a light, elegant piece that is worked in the round and features beautiful drape suitable for layering or wearing as a statement accessory.

Project Specifications

• Finished Size: 27 inches (68.5 cm) circumference and 15 inches (38 cm) deep
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Construction Method: Worked in the round
• Gauge: 26 stitches and 36 rounds per 4 inches (10 cm) in swirl pattern, after blocking

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This cowl features a lace pattern that is easy to remember and execute. The design incorporates a single motif that swirls continuously around the cowl, eliminating the need to track the end of round—a thoughtful design choice that simplifies the knitting process. The lace pattern creates the light, flowing quality characteristic of the finished piece and contributes to its elegant drape.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Texas Flood cowl is worked using 5 mini skeins of fingering weight yarn, with each skein containing 92 to 100 yards (84 to 91 meters). The pattern accommodates a variety of colors, allowing for creative color combinations and gradients. Laurie Beardsley recommends selecting yarn with excellent drape qualities, such as merino and nylon blends or merino and silk blends, to achieve the intended finished appearance and movement of the cowl.

Knitting Tools Required

• US 3 (3.25 mm) circular knitting needle, 16 to 24 inches (40 to 60 cm) in length
• Stitch marker for tracking rounds
• Cable needle (optional)
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Blocking supplies for finishing

Gauge and Customization Notes

While the pattern specifies a gauge of 26 stitches and 36 rounds per 4 inches (10 cm) in the swirl pattern after blocking, the designer notes that gauge is not critical to the success of this project. However, variations in gauge will affect the total yarn yardage required and influence both the final size and the drape characteristics of the completed cowl. Knitters should be prepared to adjust their approach based on their personal gauge and desired finished dimensions.

Finishing and Blocking

Proper blocking is recommended to achieve the specified gauge and to enhance the drape of the lace pattern. The blocking process helps set the stitches and allows the cowl to achieve its intended fluid, elegant appearance.