Fjelltopp

Fjelltopp Cowl by Mary Jane Mucklestone

What is Being Made

Fjelltopp is a comfy winter cowl featuring a graphic stranded colorwork pattern motif inspired by mountain peaks. This knit accessory offers a one-size design with finished measurements of 24 inches in circumference and 10.5 inches tall, making it a versatile layering piece for cold-weather wear.

Construction Method

The cowl is knit in the round from the top down using a straightforward construction approach. After the initial ribbing, stitches are increased to create a slightly conical shape that provides a comfortable, flattering fit around the neck.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Stranded colorwork: A two-color technique worked in the round, creating the mountain peak-inspired graphic pattern
• Top-down construction: Beginning at the neck opening and working downward to the lower edge
• Increases: Strategic stitch increases worked after the ribbing to shape the conical silhouette
• In-the-round knitting: Circular construction that eliminates seaming and creates seamless fabric

Stitches and Pattern Details

The pattern features an 8-stitch repeat outlined in the colorwork chart, with multiple repeats shown to aid visualization. The design combines ribbing at the cast-on edge with stranded colorwork sections that form the mountain peak motif throughout the body of the cowl.

Yarn and Materials

Fjelltopp is knit in worsted weight yarn using two coordinating skeins from Long Island Yarn and The Farm, an American-raised and spun source. Color A is a luxurious 70% alpaca, 25% merino, and 5% icicle blend in Hyacinth, providing 100 yards per 3-ounce skein. Color B is a 60% alpaca, 20% merino wool, and 20% silk blend in White Picket Fence, also offering 100 yards per 3-ounce skein at 2-ply worsted weight. The premium fiber content ensures warmth and softness ideal for winter wear.

Needles and Notions

This project requires 16-inch circular needles in two sizes: US 8 and US 9. Additional notions include a stitch marker for tracking rounds and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Skill Level

The colorwork pattern gauge is 16 stitches and 16 rounds over 4 inches (10 centimeters) when measured on US 9 needles. Fjelltopp is rated as a beginner-level project, making it an accessible introduction to stranded colorwork knitting for newer knitters while remaining enjoyable for experienced crafters seeking a quick, satisfying project.