Careen

Careen Cowl by Katya Frankel

What is Being Made

Careen is an intermediate-level knitted cowl designed by Katya Frankel. This project creates a finished cowl measuring approximately 10 ½ inches (26.5 cm) in height and 20 inches (52 cm) in circumference. The design features a structured, textured appearance suitable for layering and everyday wear. The pattern can be adapted into an infinity cowl by working additional pattern repeats and adjusting cast-on multiples accordingly.

Knitting Techniques and Methods

Careen employs several intermediate knitting techniques that build foundational skills while creating visual interest. The project utilizes knitting in the round, a fundamental circular knitting method that eliminates seaming and creates seamless fabric. This technique requires working stitches continuously around a closed loop rather than in flat rows.

Cable knitting forms the primary decorative element of this cowl, adding texture and dimension to the finished piece. Cables are created by crossing groups of stitches over one another using a cable needle, producing the characteristic twisted rope-like patterns that define the design.

The pattern incorporates simple increases and decreases for shaping, along with basic knit and purl stitches that form the foundation of the fabric. Finishing techniques are included to complete the project professionally.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (primary fabric stitch)
• Purl stitch (textural contrast)
• Cable stitches (decorative twisted elements)
• Simple increases (yarn overs or other basic increase methods)
• Simple decreases (knit two together or similar decrease methods)

Pattern Repeat and Gauge Information

Each 17-stitch pattern repeat measures 2 ½ inches (6.5 cm) wide and 3 ¼ inches (8 cm) tall when worked on 4 mm (US 6) needles and measured after light blocking without stretching. The overall gauge is 22 stitches and 30 rounds equal 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using 4 mm (US 6) needles. Knitters should adjust needle size as necessary to achieve the correct gauge for proper finished measurements.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern calls for Artesano British Wool, DK Blue Faced Blend yarn in color #06 Teal, requiring 2 skeins. This yarn is composed of 100% wool and provides 50 grams and 120 yards (110 metres) per skein. The total yardage needed is approximately 240 yards (220 metres) of DK weight yarn. Knitters may substitute any DK weight yarn of comparable yardage and fiber content.

Needles and Notions

This project requires a 4 mm (US 6) short circular needle or a set of long double-pointed needles for working in the round. Additional notions include 7 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping, one contrast marker for identifying the beginning of rounds, a cable needle for manipulating cable stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends during finishing.