Shamva cowl

Shamva Cowl by BurlyPurly

What is Being Made

The Shamva cowl is a snug, neck-warming accessory designed by Paul Cook of BurlyPurly. This cowl is constructed by knitting a flat rectangular panel that is subsequently joined in the round to create a seamless tubular garment. The finished piece features a decorative crochet edge, adding textural interest to the completed cowl.

Construction Method and Techniques

This cowl employs a distinctive construction approach that combines knitting and crochet techniques. The garment begins with a long-tail cast-on of 92 stitches, creating the foundation for the flat panel. After completing the knitted body, the two shorter sides are joined together using an invisible seam method to form the round shape. Once joined, a crochet edge is worked around the finished piece to add a polished border and textural detail.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Shamva cowl features a lacy, openwork stitch pattern that creates visual interest throughout the piece. The pattern consists of two alternating rows:

• Row 1: Knit 1, then repeat the sequence of yarn over, slip 1 purlwise, knit 2, pass slipped stitch over the knit 2 stitches to the end. The final stitch is worked with yarn forward and slipped purlwise onto the right needle.
• Row 2: Knit 1, purl all remaining stitches to the last stitch, yarn forward, then slip the last stitch purlwise.

These two rows are repeated for a total of 105 pattern repeats, completing 210 rows. The cast-off uses an elastic bind-off technique, where stitches are bound off by knitting 1, then repeatedly knitting 1 and working a knit 2 together through the back loop. This method ensures the edge remains elastic and comfortable against the neck.

Materials and Tools

The Shamva cowl is designed to be worked with sock yarn, a lightweight 4-ply yarn weight. The pattern calls for 1 skein of sock yarn (100 grams, 400 meters). The original design was created using Marlabrigo sock yarn. Knitting needles required include 3.00mm circular needles measuring 16 inches for the main knitted body. A 3.5mm crochet hook is needed for the finishing crochet edge. A tapestry needle is also necessary for weaving in ends and potentially for joining the sides of the cowl with an invisible seam.

Finished Dimensions and Yarn Requirements

With a single skein of 400-meter sock yarn, this cowl provides an efficient project that maximizes the yardage available in a standard sock yarn skein. The pattern's lacy stitch pattern helps ensure adequate fabric coverage while using the yarn efficiently, making this an ideal design for sock yarn enthusiasts seeking a quick-to-knit accessory project.