Linger

Linger Cowl by Natalie Larson

What Is Being Made

Linger is a knitted cowl designed by Natalie Larson as an intermediate-level project perfect for crafters looking to use leftover yarn scraps or small skeins. This versatile accessory features a finished circumference of 60 inches and a width of 7 inches, making it an ideal project for creating with multiple color combinations. The design celebrates the interplay between color variety and textured stitchwork, encouraging knitters to experiment with their yarn stash while completing a wearable finished piece.

Techniques Used

The Linger cowl employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques that build essential skills. The project begins with a long tail cast-on method, a foundational technique that creates a professional and elastic edge. Knitters will practice increasing and decreasing stitches to shape the fabric and create textural interest throughout the piece. The pattern incorporates working in the round using circular needles, a core technique for creating seamless tubular garments. The project concludes with an i-cord bind-off, an advanced finishing technique that creates a decorative and durable edge. These techniques combine to create a project that strengthens intermediate-level skills while producing a beautiful finished accessory.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch – the fundamental stitch that forms the base fabric
• Purl stitch – used in alternating patterns to create textured surfaces
• Ribbing pattern – created by alternating knit and purl stitches in rounds, providing stretch and definition
• Stockinette stitch – referenced in the gauge measurement, indicating smooth fabric sections
• I-cord – used for the bind-off edge to create a polished finish

Materials and Specifications

The Linger cowl is worked in fingering weight yarn, specifically using Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light in the original design. The yardage requirements are 270 yards in the main color (MC) and 26 yards each in five contrasting colors (CC's), making this an excellent project for utilizing yarn scraps or purchasing small coordinating skeins. The pattern calls for US 5 / 3.75 mm circular needles to achieve the specified gauge of 11 stitches and 16 rows over 2 inches in stockinette stitch. Additional materials include a stitch marker for tracking the beginning of rounds and a darning needle for weaving in ends upon completion.