Turnabout

Turnabout Reversible Cowl by Carissa Browning

What Is Being Made

Turnabout is a reversible crochet cowl designed by Carissa Browning that offers two distinct wearing options in a single garment. The piece functions as either a bandana-style cowl with a tassel positioned in front, or as a hood with the tassel at the back. This dual-purpose design allows crafters to customize their finished accessory based on personal preference and styling needs. The cowl measures 27 inches in circumference with a long depth of 27 inches (excluding the tassel) and a short depth of 13.5 inches, making it a versatile neckwear piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This beginner-friendly crochet project employs fundamental techniques that make it accessible to newer crafters while producing a sophisticated finished garment. The construction uses a systematic approach with repeated row patterns that build the fabric gradually. The pattern incorporates chain spaces and cluster stitches to create an open, textured fabric structure. A stitch marker is used throughout the project to track the center of the work, which is essential for maintaining symmetry in the reversible design. The tassel element adds both decorative appeal and functional weight to the finished cowl.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch) – Forms the foundation and creates openwork spaces throughout the pattern
• Double crochet (dc) – The primary stitch that builds the body of the cowl and creates structured clusters
• Yarn over (yo) – The fundamental technique used in forming double crochet stitches

The pattern features repeating sequences of double crochet clusters worked into chain spaces, with a special center section that includes a chain-2 space to create the symmetrical turning point of the reversible design. Rows 5 and 6 are repeated multiple times (17 additional times after the initial setup) to build the fabric to the desired dimensions, resulting in 38 double crochet clusters across the final row.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Turnabout is designed to be worked with Universal Yarns Wisdom Yarn Poems Sock, a 4-ply weight yarn composed of 75% wool and 25% nylon. This fiber blend provides durability and elasticity ideal for a wearable cowl. One 100-gram skein, which contains 459 yards (420 meters), is sufficient to complete the entire project. The recommended color is #955, though crafters may substitute other yarns of similar weight and yardage. A G/6 or 4.25mm crochet hook is used to work the pattern. The specified gauge is 14 double crochet stitches by 8 rows equaling 4 inches by 4 inches after blocking, which should be verified before beginning to ensure proper finished dimensions. Additional materials include a stitch marker for tracking progress and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for crocheters new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward project. The repeating stitch sequences and basic crochet techniques require minimal shaping or complex stitch manipulation, allowing newer crafters to focus on developing consistent tension and stitch formation while producing a polished, wearable accessory.