Pen & Ink

Pen & Ink Cowl by Louise Zass-Bangham

What Is Being Made

Pen & Ink is a knitted cowl pattern designed to showcase special DK or worsted weight yarns. The pattern creates a distinctive visual effect where strands of yarn appear to be layered or inked over one another, making it particularly ideal for semi-solid coloured yarns. The cowl is available in two sizes: a Snug version measuring 50cm (20 inches) around by 23cm (9 inches) high, and a Long version measuring 120cm (48 inches) around by 20cm (8 inches) high. The Long size can be worn loose or twisted double for enhanced warmth and versatility.

Design Flexibility and Yarn Options

This pattern offers creative flexibility in yarn selection and colour play. Knitters can create a two-tone effect by using one skein each of two different shades, allowing for experimentation with complementary or contrasting colours. Alternatively, a single skein of a special yarn is sufficient to complete a cosy cowl, making this pattern economical and adaptable to various yarn stash options.

Techniques Used

The pattern employs knitting techniques suitable for working in the round on a small circumference. The construction method is flexible, accommodating various preferred approaches for circular knitting.

Stitches and Construction

While specific stitch patterns are detailed within the full pattern document, the design creates its signature inked appearance through thoughtful yarn placement and colour interaction. The pattern provides clear instructions for both sizes, with notation where numbers differ between the Snug and Long versions.

Materials and Tools

For the Snug size:

• 180m to 200 yards of DK or worsted weight yarn
• 4mm (US 6) needles for small circumference knitting in the round, such as magic loop method
• 8mm (US 11) circular needles with a minimum 60cm (24 inch) cable

For the Long size:

• 220m to 240 yards of DK or worsted weight yarn in background colour (M)
• 220m to 240 yards of contrasting DK or worsted weight yarn
• Appropriate needles for the chosen working method

Difficulty Level

Pen & Ink is rated as an intermediate knitting project, suitable for knitters with foundational skills in circular knitting and comfortable working with colour techniques.