Driftless Cowl

Driftless Cowl by Crystal

What Is Being Made

The Driftless Cowl is an elegant, versatile cowl accessory designed by Crystal Hiatt that works beautifully across all seasons. This knitted cowl measures 11 inches by 30 inches in circumference (28.5 cm x 77 cm) and features a sophisticated two-color colorwork design enhanced with cable detailing. The finished piece creates a refined accent piece suitable for layering in any wardrobe.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project incorporates several key techniques that elevate it beyond basic knitting. The design employs two-color knitting, which requires managing both a main color (MC) and contrast color (CC) throughout the project. Cable work is featured as a decorative accent, adding visual interest and texture to the cowl. The piece is knit in the round, a technique that creates a seamless, tubular fabric ideal for cowls and other circular accessories. Increases and decreases are worked throughout to shape the garment, including make 1 left (m1L) increases and knit 2 together (k2tog) decreases.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Driftless Cowl is primarily worked in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric when knit in the round. This foundational stitch is combined with cable stitches to create the featured cable detail that serves as a beautiful accent. The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations including knit (K), purl (P), slip (sl), and the aforementioned increases and decreases. The two-color work adds depth and visual complexity to the stockinette base.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Driftless Cowl is designed for DK weight yarn, though the pattern notes indicate it can also be worked in worsted weight yarn for different fabric characteristics. The project requires 279 yards (255 meters) of main color yarn and 93 yards (85 meters) of contrast color yarn. The sample cowl was knit in Rowan Handknit Cotton (100% cotton, 93 yards per 50 grams) in RW356 Raspberry for the main color and RW251 Ecru for the contrast color, making it an excellent choice for warmer seasons. The pattern encourages knitters to substitute with wool-based yarns for cooler weather wear.

The recommended needle is a US 6 / 4.0 mm circular needle in 24-inch (60 cm) length, which accommodates the in-the-round knitting method. A cable needle (CN) is also required for working the cable stitches. The gauge is 22 stitches by 25.5 rounds equals 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch knit in the round when blocked, making gauge checking essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate or adventurous beginner project, the Driftless Cowl is accessible to knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their technique repertoire. The combination of two-color knitting and cable work provides a satisfying challenge without overwhelming complexity, making it an ideal project for building confidence in intermediate techniques.