Hypatia

Hypatia Cowl by Carissa Browning

What Is Being Made

The Hypatia is a completely reversible cowl pattern inspired by the crater-covered lunar landscape. Named after Hypatia, one of the first recorded female mathematicians and astronomers, this design creates a sophisticated neckwear piece with finished measurements of 9 inches in height and 31 inches in circumference, though the circumference is easily adjusted to suit individual preferences.

Techniques Used

This advanced-level knitting pattern employs two primary techniques worked in the round to achieve its reversible fabric quality. The pattern combines double-stranded (marled) garter stitch with double knitting, creating a fabric that is identical on both sides. The marled garter stitch is worked using two colors held together, while the double-knit sections feature a sophisticated color-work structure. Each double-knit stitch on the charts represents 2 stitches: one knitted using the color appearing on the chart and the other purled using the contrasting color. The knit stitches form the front face of the fabric, while the purl stitches form the back face, resulting in a completely reversible design.

Stitches Used

• Double-stranded garter stitch – worked in the round with two colors held together
• Double knitting – a technique where each charted stitch represents two actual stitches (one knit, one purl) in alternating colors
• Stockinette stitch – appears in certain sections worked in the round

Gauge and Specifications

Accurate gauge is essential for this advanced pattern. After blocking, the double-stranded marled garter stitch gauges at 18 stitches over 34 rounds equaling 4 inches in the round. The double-knit stockinette stitch sections gauge at 18 stitches over 25 rounds equaling 4 inches in the round. Note that double-knit stitches are counted in pairs, so while the actual stitch count may be 36 stitches, stitches are only counted on one side for pattern purposes.

Materials

This pattern is designed for sport-weight yarn and is worked in the round using appropriate needles for circular knitting. The reversible nature of the design means two colors of yarn are required to achieve the marled and double-knit effects, allowing for creative color combinations that showcase the pattern's mathematical inspiration.

Pattern Format

The Hypatia cowl pattern is available as a downloadable PDF from designer Carissa Browning, making it accessible for advanced knitters seeking a challenging and visually striking project with practical wearability.