Scarf and Neckwarmer Cowl Knitting Pattern

KUDO Scarf and Neckwarmer Cowl Knitting Pattern by Plymouth Yarn

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from Plymouth Yarn features two versatile neckwear designs: a classic scarf and a button-closure neckwrap cowl. Both pieces showcase the same elegant stitch pattern and are worked using the same yarn and needles, making them perfect companion projects. The pattern is available free with the purchase of Plymouth Yarn's KUDO yarn, offering excellent value for knitters seeking stylish, wearable accessories.

Scarf Design and Specifications

The scarf measures 7 inches wide by 60 inches long, creating a generous length suitable for wrapping and styling. The scarf requires 1 ball of KUDO yarn and is worked on US size 8 needles. The pattern begins with a loose cast-on of 29 stitches, establishing a foundation that allows for comfortable drape and flexibility in the finished fabric.

Neckwrap Cowl Design and Specifications

The neckwrap cowl offers a more compact alternative, measuring 9 inches wide by 24 inches in circumference. This design also requires 1 ball of KUDO yarn and uses the same US size 8 needles. The neckwrap is constructed by casting on 34 stitches and working to approximately 23 inches before adding functional button closures. Three buttons are sewn to the cast-on edge to correspond with buttonholes worked into the upper edge, allowing the wearer to adjust the fit and secure the cowl comfortably around the neck.

Stitch Pattern and Techniques

Both the scarf and neckwrap utilize the same repeating two-row pattern stitch, creating visual texture and interest throughout the pieces. The pattern alternates between a wrong-side row and a right-side row:

• Row 2 (Wrong Side): Knit 4 stitches, purl 1 stitch, then repeat the sequence of knit 4 and purl 1 across, ending with knit 4
• Row 3 (Right Side): Knit 4 stitches, slip 1 stitch knitwise, then repeat the sequence of knit 4 and slip 1 knitwise across, ending with knit 4

This pattern creates a subtle textured surface through the combination of knit and purl stitches on the wrong side, while the slipped stitches on the right side add visual definition and help create neat, finished edges. The pattern is straightforward and suitable for intermediate knitters, as it involves only basic knitting techniques without complex cable work or color changes.

Neckwrap Buttonhole Technique

The neckwrap incorporates functional buttonholes worked using the yarn over and knit two together decrease method. This creates small, reinforced eyelets that allow buttons to pass through securely. The buttonholes are strategically spaced across the width of the piece to distribute the closure evenly. After the buttonholes are worked and the final rows are completed, the upper edge is folded down over the cast-on edge, and three buttons are sewn to the bottom layer to align with the buttonholes, creating an adjustable closure system.

Gauge and Yarn Specifications

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 16 stitches over 4 inches using the specified pattern stitch on US size 8 needles. This gauge is achieved with Plymouth Yarn's KUDO yarn, which is the recommended fiber for this design. The loose cast-on and bind-off instructions ensure that the finished pieces have a relaxed, comfortable fit without excessive tightness at the edges.

Construction Method

Both pieces are worked flat in rows from cast-on to bind-off, making them ideal for knitters who prefer straightforward, linear construction without the complexity of circular needles or in-the-round shaping. The scarf is worked until nearly all yarn is consumed or the desired 60-inch length is reached, while the neckwrap is worked to approximately 23 inches before the buttonhole row is introduced. All pieces are bound off loosely knitwise to maintain the relaxed aesthetic of the finished fabric.

Finished Fabric Characteristics

The combination of knit, purl, and slipped stitches creates a fabric with subtle horizontal texture and gentle visual interest. The stitch pattern produces a fabric that is neither too dense nor too loose, offering good drape and breathability suitable for neckwear worn close to the skin. The