X-Stitch Neckwarmer

This is the "X-Stitch Neckwarmer" crochet pattern for a cozy, textured cowl you can pull up to keep your face warm or scrunch down for a slim profiled scarf. It looks lovely peeking up from your coat collar! It's a great beginner pattern or a quick project for the experienced crocheter because of the complex-looking texture created using only basic stitches.

Any worsted or aran-weight yarn will work fine, but a yarn with a bit of stiffness to it will accentuate the differences in texture and help the cowl stand up on its own, like the photos, which picture a cowl made with 100% wool. A softer, more yielding yarn will give a cowl that lays more softly on the neck. Use whichever you prefer! This pattern can also be extended to create a longer infinity-style scarf. You can make it as long as you’d like, but be sure to use an even-number of stitches (not counting the starting chains).

All instructions are provided in U.S. crochet terms.