Net Cowl

Net Cowl by Jenise Reid

What is Being Made

The Net Cowl is a knitted cowl (neck accessory) designed by Jenise Reid, available in two finished sizes: 27 inches around and 15 inches tall, or 46 inches around and 12 inches tall. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a lightweight, lacy cowl suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone neckpiece. The design features an open, netted stitch pattern that creates visual interest while maintaining breathability.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and decorative techniques. The cowl is worked in the round using circular needles, which creates a seamless, tubular construction. The pattern incorporates yarn overs (yo) to create the lacy, open-net appearance characteristic of the design. Decreasing techniques including k2tog (knit two together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) are used to shape the fabric and balance the yarn overs. The pattern also uses make one increases to add stitches where needed. Additionally, the cowl features knit through the back loop (k-tbl) stitches in the ribbed edging, which creates a twisted effect for a refined finish.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Net Cowl combines several stitch techniques to achieve its distinctive look. The pattern begins and ends with a twisted rib created by alternating knit-through-the-back-loop and purl stitches. The main body features a lace net stitch that repeats throughout the cowl, created by combining yarn overs with four-stitch decreases (k4tog and p4tog). Between the decrease rows, the pattern incorporates triple stitches—working knit, purl, and knit into a single stitch, then working the adjacent stitch—which creates texture and helps regulate stitch count. Stockinette stitch (knit on right-side rounds, purl on wrong-side rounds) and reverse stockinette sections provide structural support between the lacy elements.

Materials and Specifications

The Net Cowl pattern calls for Malabrigo Worsted, a 100% Merino wool yarn with 210 yards per 100 grams. Depending on the size chosen, knitters need either 1 ball for the shorter version (27 inches around, 15 inches tall) or 2 balls for the longer version (46 inches around, 12 inches tall). The pattern specifies a 6 mm/US 10 circular needle for construction. The gauge is 3 stitches and 4 rows to 1 inch in stockinette stitch when unblocked, though the lace net stitch will naturally knit to a looser gauge due to the yarn overs and decreases. The only additional notions required are a yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Skill Requirements

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty and requires knitters to be comfortable with knitting in the round, fundamental knit and purl stitches, and several shaping techniques. Knitters should be familiar with yarn overs, decrease stitches (both k2tog and ssk), and make one increases before beginning. The ability to work with circular needles and maintain consistent tension while creating lace patterns is essential for successful completion of this cowl.