In August, Away

In August, Away Cowl by Bristol Ivy

What is Being Made

In August, Away is a knitted cowl designed by Bristol Ivy, inspired by a line from Benjamin Britten's Friday Afternoons, Op. 7, "Cuckoo!" This is a generous, wearable cowl with finished measurements of approximately 58 inches in circumference and 12.5 inches in depth, making it suitable for layering or wearing as a statement neckpiece.

Techniques Used

This beginner-level knitting project employs several fundamental techniques that build foundational skills. The pattern uses in-the-round knitting on circular needles, which creates a seamless, tubular fabric. A key technical feature is the simultaneous use of increases and decreases on alternating rounds that maintain a constant stitch count throughout the piece. This balanced shaping technique allows the cowl to expand and contract in specific areas without adding bulk. The pattern incorporates lace blocking to achieve proper gauge and definition of the stitch pattern after completion. Ribbing at the base provides structure and elasticity, while the lace pattern section creates visual interest and drape.

Stitches Used

The cowl features stockinette stitch as the primary stitch base, worked in the round to create smooth, V-shaped columns of fabric. Ribbing is used at the cast-on edge to provide elasticity and a finished appearance. A lace pattern is integrated into the main body, where yarn overs and decreases create an openwork design. The pattern notes that increases occur within the lace pattern while decreases happen outside the ribbing markers, creating a balanced construction where the total stitch count remains constant despite the shaping.

Materials and Tools

The pattern calls for Butternut DK by Highland Handmades, a yarn blend of 85% Polwarth wool and 15% silk, providing a luxurious drape and subtle sheen. Approximately 590 yards (or 2 skeins) of this DK weight yarn is required. The project uses one 32-inch circular needle in two sizes: US 5 (3.75 mm) for the ribbed cast-on and setup, and US 6 (4 mm) for the main body, allowing the knitter to adjust tension and fabric density between sections. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and the beginning of round, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends. The recommended gauge is 17.5 stitches and 33 rounds per 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needle after lace blocking.

Pattern Construction

The cowl begins with a Long-Tail cast-on of 252 stitches on the smaller needle, establishing a sturdy foundation. The ribbed section is worked first to create an elastic edge, then the knitter transitions to the larger needle for the main lace pattern. The design demonstrates how a beginner can work with lace techniques while maintaining structural integrity through the clever balance of increases and decreases that keep stitch counts stable throughout.