Tahki Yarns Laurel Buttoned Cowl Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Laurel Buttoned Cowl

What is Being Made

The Laurel Buttoned Cowl is a knitted neck accessory designed by Pam Grushkin. This cowl measures 9 inches wide and 34 inches long when unbuttoned, with a finished circumference of approximately 31½ inches when buttoned closed. The design features three toggle buttons that allow the wearer to adjust the fit and closure of the cowl.

Techniques Used

This cowl is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, which means the piece is created as a rectangular panel that is later buttoned together. The construction begins with casting on stitches and working in rows until the desired length is achieved. The pattern incorporates buttonholes worked using yarn overs and knit-two-together decreases to create functional closures for the toggle buttons. Finishing techniques include blocking to measurements, weaving in ends, and sewing on the three toggle buttons.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is Garter Rib, which is a combination stitch worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 1. The pattern alternates between rows:

• Row 1 (Right Side): Slip 1 purlwise with yarn forward, knit to end
• Row 2 (Wrong Side): Slip 1 purlwise with yarn forward, then repeat knit 3, purl 1 across, ending with knit 4

This stitch combination creates texture and structure while maintaining a relatively simple rhythm. The pattern also uses yarn overs and knit-two-together decreases to create the buttonholes that are evenly spaced across the cowl.

Materials

The Laurel Buttoned Cowl is knitted using Tahki Yarns Nevada, a luxurious blend of 70% organic virgin wool and 30% alpaca. This yarn weight is classified as bulky, providing warmth and drape suitable for a cowl. Two balls of Nevada in colorway #04 stone grey are required, with each ball containing 49 yards and weighing 3½ ounces (100 grams). The project calls for Size 19 (15 mm) needles, which are appropriately sized for this bulky yarn. The gauge is 7½ stitches and 11 rows over 4 inches when worked in the Garter Rib pattern. Additional notions include a tapestry needle for finishing and three 2⅛-inch toggle buttons for closure.