Napatree Cowl Knitting Pattern

Napatree Cowl in Berroco Ultra Wool DK

What Is Being Made

The Napatree Cowl is a versatile, neck-warming accessory designed by Martha Wissing. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a finished cowl measuring approximately 13 inches wide and 57 inches around, making it suitable for wearing as a comfortable loop around the neck or styled as a larger wrap. The generous circumference allows for multiple wraps or layered styling options.

Techniques Used

This cowl combines two distinct knitting techniques to create visual interest and texture. Mosaic knitting forms the primary decorative element, a technique that creates intricate colorwork patterns without the complexity of traditional stranded knitting. In mosaic knitting worked in the round, rounds are executed in pairs using the same color, with the first round following the pattern instructions and the second round involving purling the knit stitches and slipping the slipped stitches from the previous round. This creates a dimensional, woven appearance.

The cowl also incorporates garter stitch stripes, which provide cushy, textured sections that alternate with the mosaic patterning. Garter stitch is created by knitting every round when working in the round, producing the characteristic horizontal ridges and soft drape. The combination of these two techniques—mosaic knitting and garter stitch—creates a balanced design with both visual pattern and tactile comfort.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K): The fundamental stitch used throughout the cowl, particularly in garter stitch sections and mosaic pattern rounds
• Purl stitch (P): Used in garter stitch borders and as part of the mosaic knitting technique to create texture and pattern definition
• Slip stitch (SL): A key component of mosaic knitting, where stitches are slipped purlwise with yarn held in back to create the characteristic mosaic colorwork effect without actual yarn manipulation across stitches
• German Twisted (Old Norwegian) cast-on: The recommended cast-on method for this project, creating a secure and elastic edge suitable for circular knitting

Materials and Gauge

This project requires Berroco Ultra Wool DK yarn, a durable worsted-weight option. The pattern calls for 2 balls each of two contrasting colors: #83104 Driftwood (C1) and #8310 Alyssum (C2), totaling 200 grams of yarn. Berroco recommends choosing two colors with strong contrast to ensure the mosaic pattern is clearly visible and visually striking.

Knitting is worked on a 29-inch circular needle in size 6 (4.00 mm), or the size necessary to achieve the specified gauge. The pattern also requires 3 stitch markers to track pattern repeats and the beginning of rounds. Achieving proper gauge is essential for accurate finished measurements: 20 stitches and 42 rounds equal 4 inches in garter stitch, while 23 stitches and 30 rows equal 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Knitters are advised to swatch and check gauge before beginning the project to ensure the finished cowl meets the intended dimensions.

Pattern Overview

The Napatree Cowl begins with casting on 295 stitches using the German Twisted method, then joining to work in the round. The pattern opens with a garter stitch border worked over several rounds, alternating knit and purl rounds with color changes to establish the foundation. Following the border, the mosaic knitting pattern begins, creating repeating geometric motifs through strategic slipped stitches and color changes. The mosaic sections are interspersed with additional garter stitch elements, building a balanced, textured fabric. All slipped stitches throughout the pattern are worked purlwise with yarn held in back to maintain consistency and proper mosaic appearance.