Striped Cowl Knitting Pattern

Striped Cowl in Plymouth Yarn Arequipa Worsted & Fur

What is Being Made

This is a beginner-friendly knitted cowl designed to be worn around the neck. The finished cowl measures approximately 20 ¾ inches in circumference and 9 inches in length, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone neckwarmer. The design combines two complementary yarns from Plymouth Yarn's Arequipa collection to create visual interest through strategic striping.

Yarn Materials

This pattern uses two distinct yarns from the Plymouth Yarn Arequipa line, both in coordinating dark grey shades:

• Arequipa Worsted: 1 ball of 100 grams in color 305 DK Grey. This yarn is held double throughout the entire pattern to achieve the desired gauge and fabric weight.
• Arequipa Fur: 1 ball of 50 grams in color 205 DK Grey. This textured yarn creates the striped sections and adds tactile dimension to the finished cowl.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires minimal notions, making it an economical project. You will need one US Size 11 (8mm) circular needle measuring 24 inches in length and one stitch marker to denote the beginning of each round.

Knitting Techniques Used

This cowl is worked in the round using circular needles, which eliminates the need for seaming and creates a seamless, professional finish. The pattern employs a simple stripe technique where yarn colors are changed at regular intervals. Rather than cutting yarn between color changes, the non-working yarn is carried up the inside of the cowl and twisted together at the beginning of each round. This method reduces bulk and minimizes weaving in ends, making the project more efficient for beginners.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The cowl is worked entirely in stockinette stitch, which is the most fundamental knit stitch pattern. Stockinette stitch consists of knit stitches on every round when working in the round, creating the classic smooth, V-patterned fabric that is perfect for showcasing the textural differences between the Worsted and Fur yarns. The pattern begins with a long-tail cast on of 62 stitches and concludes with a loose bind off to ensure the edges remain flexible and comfortable against the neck.

Stripe Sequence

The striping pattern is straightforward and repeats throughout the cowl. The sequence consists of 5 rounds worked with Arequipa Fur followed by 8 rounds worked with Arequipa Worsted (held double). This 13-round stripe sequence is repeated 3 times total, then finished with a final 5 rounds of Fur before binding off. This creates a balanced, rhythmic pattern that alternates between the smooth worsted texture and the fuzzy fur texture.

Gauge and Blocking

The pattern specifies a gauge of 12 stitches and 20 rows equaling 4 inches when using the US Size 11 needle with Arequipa Worsted held double, measured after blocking. Light blocking is recommended to even out the stitches and set the finished dimensions. Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished circumference and length.

Skill Level

This cowl is classified as a beginner project, making it ideal for knitters new to circular needle work or those seeking a quick, satisfying knit. The pattern requires only basic knitting knowledge: casting on, knitting in the round, managing color changes, and binding off. There are no complex stitch patterns, increases, decreases, or shaping required.