Cocoa Cowl

Cocoa Cowl by Tif Handknits

What Is Being Made

The Cocoa Cowl is a reversible knit cowl designed by Tif Neilan and created using a combination of bulky and super bulky weight yarns. This downloadable PDF pattern produces a finished cowl measuring 14 inches (36 cm) in width and 11.5 inches (29 cm) in height. The reversible construction means both sides of the cowl offer distinct visual appeal, making it a versatile accessory that can be worn with either side facing outward depending on your styling preference.

Techniques and Stitch Work

The Cocoa Cowl features an alternating twisted rib and slip stitch pattern that creates a sophisticated brioche-esque appearance. This technique is what gives the cowl its reversible quality—one side displays a brioche-like look with subtle hints of the contrast color peeking through, while the alternate side showcases the contrast yarn more prominently. The slip stitch combined with twisted rib creates interesting texture and visual depth without requiring advanced knitting skills.

The pattern is worked in the round on circular needles, which is a fundamental technique for creating seamless cylindrical garments like cowls. Working in the round eliminates the need for seaming and creates a polished, professional finish.

Stitches Used

• Twisted Rib: A variation of standard ribbing that adds subtle texture and prevents curling
• Slip Stitch: A technique where stitches are moved from one needle to another without working them, creating visual interest and the brioche-like effect
• Alternating Pattern: The combination of twisted rib and slip stitch worked in alternation throughout the cowl

Yarn and Materials

The Cocoa Cowl uses a two-color yarn combination to achieve its reversible design. The main color (MC) requires either 190 yards (174 meters) of Aran weight yarn held double, or 95 yards (87 meters) of bulky weight yarn. The pattern suggests Berroco Ultra Worsted held double for the main color option. The contrast color (CC) requires 75 yards (69 meters) of super bulky weight yarn, with Berroco Coco pictured in the sample.

The pattern calls for US size 15 (10 mm) circular needles measuring 24 inches (61 cm) in length. Additional notions include a stitch marker for marking the beginning of round and a darning needle for weaving in yarn ends. The gauge is 12 stitches and 14 rounds per 4 inches (10 cm) when working the slip stitch twisted rib pattern on US size 15 needles.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner-friendly pattern, the Cocoa Cowl is an excellent project for knitters new to working with bulky and super bulky yarns or those beginning to explore slip stitch techniques. The straightforward stitch pattern and circular needle construction make this an accessible introduction to cowl knitting without sacrificing visual sophistication or the impressive reversible feature.