Hazel & Nut

Hazel & Nut Colorworked Cowl by Christal LK Designs

What Is Being Made

The Hazel & Nut is a colorworked cowl designed by Christal LK Designs. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a finished cowl measuring 61cm in circumference with a height of 30cm, making it a versatile neckwear accessory suitable for various seasons and styling preferences.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level project combines two primary knitting techniques to create visual interest and structure. The cowl begins with a ribbed section worked in the round, which provides elasticity and a classic fitted appearance at the neckline. The main body features stranded colorwork, a technique where two colors are carried simultaneously across the row to create a patterned design. When working stranded colorwork with longer color floats, the pattern recommends catching floats every 3 to 4 stitches to prevent loose, snagging strands on the inside of the finished garment.

Stitches and Construction

The ribbed sections are worked using a 2x2 ribbed stitch pattern, alternating knit and purl stitches in groups of two. This creates vertical columns that provide structure and stretch recovery. The cowl is constructed in the round using circular needles, with stitch markers placed to denote the beginning of the round and pattern repeats. The stranded colorwork section is worked following a provided chart, which is repeated twice across each round for balanced patterning.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 29 stitches and 32 rounds over 10 centimeters (4 inches) in stranded colorwork when measured after blocking. This gauge is achieved using the larger 3.5mm circular needle. Accurate gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished measurements of 61cm circumference and 30cm height.

Yarn and Materials

• Main Color (MC): Olann Singles in 100% Merino wool, color Tough Love, approximately 230 meters required
• Contrast Color (CC): The Fox and The Knight Fluffy Fox Singles in 100% Merino wool, color Okoye, approximately 90 meters required
• Needles: 60cm (24 inch) circular needles in both 3.25mm (US 3) and 3.5mm (US 4) sizes
• Notions: 2 stitch markers and 1 tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Yarn Weight and Fiber Content

This pattern uses 4-ply yarn weight, which is a light worsted or DK-weight yarn. Both the main color and contrast color are 100% Merino wool singles, providing softness, breathability, and natural elasticity. The Merino fiber is particularly suitable for cowls as it offers comfort against the skin and excellent drape. The yardage requirements are modest, making this an ideal project for using yarn stash or trying new colorways without significant investment.

Pattern Structure Overview

The cowl is divided into distinct sections. It begins with a ribbed section worked over 15 rounds using the main color, establishing the foundation and providing a neat, finished edge. Two additional rounds of stockinette stitch in the main color serve as a transition before the stranded colorwork section begins. The colorwork section features the chart repeated twice per round, creating a balanced, symmetrical design. After completing the colorwork, the contrast color is cut and the second stitch marker is removed, preparing the piece for finishing.