White Leaf

White Leaf Cowl by Alicia Plummer

What is Being Made

The White Leaf is a knitted cowl designed by Alicia Plummer. This is a circular neckwear piece that measures 30 inches (76 cm) in circumference and 11 inches (28 cm) in depth, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or wearing as a statement piece.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using the knitting craft. The cowl is worked in the round from the bottom up, utilizing circular needles to create a seamless, tubular construction. This method allows for continuous rounds of knitting without the need for seaming.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

The White Leaf cowl incorporates several key stitching techniques:

• Stockinette stitch — the primary stitch used throughout the body of the cowl, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Garter stitch — worked in the round using alternating knit and purl rounds (round 1: purl to end; round 2: knit to end). This textured stitch is used at the top and bottom edges to create a gentle pull that cinches the cowl and adds a nubby texture that highlights the leaf motif
• Knit 1, purl 1 (k1, p1) ribbing — used for shaping and structure
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) — a decrease technique incorporated into the pattern

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The White Leaf cowl is designed to be worked with aran weight yarn, requiring a total of 240 yards (219 meters) of yarn. The pattern suggests using Augustbird Hearty Aran in Superwash Merino fiber, which provides 180 yards (165 meters) per 100 grams (3.53 ounces).

Two sizes of US circular needles are required:

• US Size #9 (5.5 mm) 28-inch circular needle — used as the smaller needle for the initial cast-on and ribbed sections
• US Size #10.5 (6.5 mm) 28-inch circular needle — used as the larger needle for the main stockinette stitch body

Additional notions include 2 stitch markers to track the beginning of round and pattern repeats, and a darning needle or crochet hook for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Difficulty Level

The pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, suitable for knitters with some experience. The gauge is 16 stitches and 20 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in stockinette stitch on the larger needles. Maintaining proper gauge is essential for achieving the finished measurements of 30 inches in circumference.

Construction Details

The cowl begins with a long-tail cast-on of 120 stitches using the smaller US #9 needle, with a stitch marker placed at the beginning of round to mark the start of each round. The construction progresses upward, with the garter stitch sections at the top and bottom providing both structural shaping and textural interest that complements the leaf motif design. The gentle garter stitch pull creates a refined finish on each end of the cowl.