Octet Cowl

Octet Cowl by Meridith Shepherd

What is Being Made

The Octet Cowl is a knitted cowl designed by Meridith Shepherd and published by Stacked Woolens. Named after the musical term for eight voices or instruments working in harmony, this cowl features a sophisticated cable design repeated eight times around the circumference. The finished cowl measures 30 inches in circumference and 7 inches in height, making it a versatile neckwear piece suitable for layering and everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level pattern teaches reversible cabling, a technique that creates cables that look polished from both sides of the fabric. This makes the Octet Cowl an excellent learning project for knitters looking to expand their technical skills. The pattern includes optional chart reading for those who prefer visual stitch instructions alongside written directions. The cable crossings are strategically placed to create visual interest without overwhelming the design.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Octet Cowl combines two primary stitch techniques:

• Cable Stitches: One cable crossing is repeated eight times throughout the pattern, creating the signature design element. The reversible cable technique ensures the cables maintain their appearance whether viewed from the inside or outside of the cowl.
• Slipped Stitch Ribbing: This textured ribbing provides a lush backdrop for the cable work. Slipped stitches create a refined, sophisticated appearance while adding subtle texture and structure to the fabric.

Materials and Tools

The Octet Cowl pattern calls for 2 skeins or 240 yards total of worsted weight yarn. The designer specifies Malabrigo Rios or Malabrigo Worsted, though any similar worsted weight yarn will work. Worsted weight yarn, also called aran weight, provides excellent stitch definition for showcasing cable and ribbing details.

Required needles and notions include a US size 8 circular needle measuring 24 inches, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, a cable needle for manipulating stitches during cable crossings, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 23 stitches and 16 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in slipped stitch ribbing. Maintaining accurate gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions of 30 inches circumference and 7 inches height.

Skill Level and Pattern Structure

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Octet Cowl pattern requires foundational knitting knowledge including circular knitting, cable techniques, and the ability to work from written instructions. Chart reading is optional, providing flexibility for knitters with different learning preferences. The pattern uses strategic stitch marker placement to organize the 200 cast-on stitches into manageable sections, making the construction process clear and organized.