Cluster Stitch Cravat Cowl Knitting Pattern

Cluster Stitch Cravat Cowl Knitting Pattern

Project Overview

The Cluster Stitch Cravat is an elegant neckwear accessory designed by Betty Balcomb and published by Cascade Yarns as pattern DK195. This advanced beginner knitting project creates a sophisticated cowl measuring approximately 35 by 7 inches after blocking. The design features a unique two-color construction that showcases the beauty of the cluster stitch lace pattern through strategic color placement.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a cravat—a decorative neck accessory that drapes elegantly around the neck. The finished piece is enhanced with seven small buttons measuring 3/4 to 1 inch, which are positioned strategically to add visual interest and functionality to the design. The cravat works as a versatile accessory suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Cluster Stitch Cravat employs several fundamental knitting techniques executed in a two-color method. The pattern uses a straightforward approach where knitters work back and forth with two colors without carrying yarn across rows. Instead, one color waits at the right side edge while the other is actively worked. This technique simplifies the construction process while creating striking visual contrast.

The pattern includes careful attention to yarn overs and decreases that must align properly to maintain the lace pattern's integrity. The designer provides helpful hints emphasizing the importance of positioning yarn overs in the center of the three knit stitches during the cluster decrease, and paying particular attention to the yarn overs at the beginning and end of right-side rows where mistakes are most likely to occur.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern is the Cluster Stitch Lace Pattern, which works over a multiple of 3 stitches. This pattern repeats across 4 rows:

• Row 1 (Right side): K2, *YO, CL3, repeat from * to last st, K1
• Row 2: Purl
• Row 3: K1, *CL3, YO repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2
• Row 4: Purl

The pattern introduces a special abbreviation: CL3 (Cluster 3), which is executed by knitting 3 stitches, then inserting the left needle tip into the first of the 3 stitches just knit (the 3rd stitch from the end of the right needle) and passing this stitch over the other 2 stitches as if to bind off. This creates a single decrease that balances the yarn over increases in the pattern, resulting in a balanced lace design.

The two-color version alternates colors every two rows: Color A is worked for Rows 1 and 2, then Color B for Rows 3 and 4, repeating this sequence throughout the project. Basic stitches including knit, purl, and yarn overs form the foundation of this lace pattern.

Materials and Gauge

The Cluster Stitch Cravat is designed to be knit with Cascade 220 Sport Weight yarn, requiring one skein each of two colors. The pictured example uses colors #4002 and #8401 from the Cascade 220 Sport line. Knitters work with US Size 6 needles, or the size required to obtain proper gauge.

The recommended gauge is 9 stitches per 2 inches in the pattern stitch. However, the pattern notes that gauge is not critical for this project—a slightly wider or narrower finished cravat is acceptable, making this an forgiving pattern for those still developing their gauge consistency. The pattern begins with casting on 36 stitches and includes a narrow border created by knitting 3 rows and purling 1 row with Color B before beginning the main cluster stitch lace pattern.

Seven buttons measuring 3/4 to 1 inch complete the accessory, adding both decorative and functional elements to the finished piece.