Maximus

Maximus Cowl by Bonne Marie Burns

What is Being Made

The Maximus is a chic knitted cowl designed by Bonne Marie Burns, a versatile neckwear accessory that measures 32 inches in circumference. This cowl is constructed as a tubular garment using a straightforward knitting method, making it an excellent project for knitters seeking to create a stylish, wearable piece with intermediate-level techniques.

Yarn and Materials

This cowl pattern accommodates two yarn weight options to suit different preferences and gauge requirements. Knitters may choose between Bulky or Super Bulky weight yarn, with yardage requirements of either 166 yards (for Bulky) or 148 yards (for Super Bulky). The project uses straight needles in sizes #17 (15.5mm) or #19 (12mm), depending on the selected yarn weight. Additionally, a spare needle in a minimum size #8 (5mm) is required for the bind-off technique.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Maximus employs several fundamental knitting techniques that characterize intermediate-level projects. The cowl begins with a simple cast-on method, creating 31 stitches for Bulky yarn or 25 stitches for Super Bulky yarn. The construction method is particularly notable for its use of a three-needle bind off, which joins the edges of the knitted piece together to form a seamless tube. This technique involves picking up stitches from the original cast-on edge using a spare needle, then binding off both sets of stitches simultaneously with the working needle, creating a secure and finished edge.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch: The primary fabric stitch, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing the classic smooth, V-patterned texture
• Reverse Stockinette Stitch: Incorporated as a textural element through the alternating knit and purl pattern in Row 2 (K2, [P1, K1] across to last 3 sts, P1, K2), which creates visual interest and dimension
• Edge Stitches: Slip stitches worked purlwise at the beginning and end of wrong-side rows to create neat, finished edges
• Three-Needle Bind Off: A joining technique that secures two sets of live stitches together while simultaneously binding them off

Gauge and Sizing

Gauge is critical to achieving the correct finished measurements. The pattern specifies 10 stitches over 4 inches for Bulky yarn or 8 stitches over 4 inches for Super Bulky yarn, both worked in Stockinette Stitch. Maintaining accurate gauge ensures the cowl reaches its intended 32-inch circumference and drapes properly when worn.

Pattern Structure

The Maximus follows a straightforward, repeatable row pattern that makes it accessible for intermediate knitters. After the initial setup rows, knitters repeat two rows—a right-side row featuring the knit-purl texture pattern and a wrong-side purl row with edge stitches—until the piece measures the full 32 inches from the cast-on edge. The pattern concludes with a right-side row before proceeding to the three-needle bind off, which transforms the flat rectangle into a finished tubular cowl.