Berroco Donna Accessory Knitting Pattern

Berroco Donna Knitting Pattern: Cowl and Hat Set

What Is Being Made

The Berroco Donna pattern provides instructions for creating a coordinated accessory set consisting of two pieces: a spacious cowl neck warmer and a matching hat. Both items are designed by Amy Christoffers and are suitable for intermediate-level knitters. The cowl measures 30 inches around by 11½ inches high when unstretched, while the hat measures 18 inches around by 11 inches high when unstretched. Together, these accessories create a cohesive, color-coordinated ensemble.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Berroco Dulce yarn, a worsted-weight option available in 50-gram balls. The color palette consists of three complementary shades: Opal (main color), Citrine (contrast color 1), and Onyx (contrast color 2). To complete the full set, knitters will need 3 balls of Opal, 1 ball of Citrine, and 1 ball of Onyx. For the cowl alone, use 2 balls of Opal with 1 ball each of Citrine and Onyx. For the hat alone, use 1 ball of each color.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires multiple needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and construction:

• For the Cowl: 24-inch circular needles in sizes 3 (3.25 mm) and 6 (4 mm), one stitch marker, and a tapestry needle for finishing
• For the Hat: 16-inch circular needles in sizes 3 (3.25 mm) and 6 (4 mm), one set of double-pointed needles in size 6 (4 mm) for the crown decreases, one stitch marker, and a tapestry needle

The pattern recommends using the specified Berroco Dulce yarn to ensure accurate results, as different yarns may produce different gauges and finished measurements.

Techniques and Stitches Used

This intermediate-level pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques to create texture and shaping:

• Ribbing: The cowl begins with 3 inches of k2, p2 (knit 2, purl 2) ribbing worked on smaller needles, which creates an elastic edge that sits comfortably around the neck
• Stockinette Stitch: The main fabric is worked in stockinette stitch (knit on right side, purl on wrong side when working flat, or knit every round when working in the round), which creates a smooth, classic appearance
• Decreasing: A decrease round (k2tog) is used to shape the fabric after the ribbed cuff, reducing stitches from 180 to 162 to achieve proper fit and drape
• Chart-Based Colorwork: Both the cowl and hat feature a 6-stitch repeat pattern worked from a chart using two contrast colors alongside the main color, introducing visual interest through stranded colorwork
• Increasing: An increase round using M1 (make one) is incorporated to adjust stitch count as needed during construction
• Circular Knitting: Both pieces are worked in the round using circular needles, which eliminates seaming and creates seamless, tubular garments

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needles, measured after blocking. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished pieces match the intended measurements. The pattern includes detailed instructions for blocking, which helps even out the stitches and set the final dimensions.