Classic Elite Yarns Fifi Cowl Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Fifi: Scarf and Cowl Combo

What is Being Made

Fifi is a unique hybrid accessory that combines a cowl with attached scarf ends, originally published in Fortuna 1603. This warm-weather design features a circular cowl section with two rectangular scarf panels that join seamlessly to the main body. The finished cowl measures approximately 32½" in circumference and 10" in height, while each scarf end measures approximately 8½" wide and 10½" long, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for transitional seasons.

Techniques Used

Fifi employs both worked flat and worked in the rnd construction methods, combining them into a single cohesive garment. The scarf ends are worked flat on straight needles using a shaped edge technique, while the cowl section is worked seamlessly in the round using circular needles. The design features a sophisticated joining technique where the live stitches from the flat scarf ends are grafted together with the cowl stitches using a k2tog join method, eliminating the need for seams and creating a smooth transition between the different sections.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch throughout the entire garment, creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Knit front and back (kfb): Used at the beginning of scarf end rows to create subtle shaping
• Knit two together (k2tog): Used both for edge shaping on the scarf ends and as the joining technique to attach the scarf sections to the cowl
• Purl: Used on wrong-side rows of the flat-worked scarf ends

Materials and Gauge

This pattern calls for Fortuna by Classic Elite Yarns, a blend of 58% linen, 26% viscose, and 16% cotton that provides breathability and drape ideal for warm-weather wear. The pattern requires 2 balls (approximately 328 yards total) in colorway 3503 Slate. The recommended gauge is 14 stitches and 20 rows per 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch, and the pattern emphasizes the importance of checking gauge before beginning. Straight knitting needles and circular knitting needles are required for construction, with a note that a larger needle size may be helpful when binding off the cowl section for a stretchy, comfortable edge. The pattern recommends light blocking to measurements while allowing edges to roll naturally.

Skill Level

This design is rated as Intermediate, suitable for knitters with experience in both flat and circular knitting techniques who are comfortable with stitch joining methods.