Tahki Yarns Sassafras Cowl Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Sassafras Cowl: Knitted Cowl Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Sassafras Cowl is a one-size knitted cowl designed by Rosemary Drysdale. This cozy neckwear piece features a finished circumference of 23 inches (58.5 cm) and a width of 7 inches (18 cm), making it an ideal accessory for layering during cooler seasons. The cowl is constructed as a continuous tube that can be worn draped around the neck for warmth and style.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs bottom-up construction, meaning you begin by casting on stitches at the base and work upward to the finished length. The cowl is worked in the round using a circular needle, which creates a seamless, tubular fabric without the need for seaming. This technique ensures a smooth, continuous surface ideal for a garment worn close to the neck. The pattern includes essential finishing steps such as blocking to measurements and weaving in ends for a polished final product.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is Moss stitch, a classic textured stitch that works over a multiple of 2 stitches. Moss stitch is created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence across four rounds, then repeating this four-round pattern throughout the project. The pattern structure is as follows:

• Round 1: Knit 1, purl 1 repeated around
• Round 2: Knit the knit stitches and purl the purl stitches (maintaining the established pattern)
• Round 3: Purl 1, knit 1 repeated around (reversing the pattern from Round 1)
• Round 4: Knit the knit stitches and purl the purl stitches

This four-round repeat creates a textured, reversible fabric with visual interest on both sides. The cowl is cast on with 38 stitches and bound off loosely in pattern to maintain the elasticity and texture of the Moss stitch.

Materials and Gauge

The Sassafras Cowl requires 1 ball of Tahki Yarns Nevada, a premium blend of 70% organic virgin wool and 30% alpaca. Each ball contains 3.5 ounces (100 grams) and provides 49 yards (45 meters) of yardage. The yarn is worked in color #04 stone grey, a neutral shade suitable for various wardrobes.

Construction calls for one size 19 (15mm) circular needle measuring 24 inches (60 cm) long, or a size adjusted to obtain the correct gauge. Additional supplies include a stitch marker to denote the beginning of each round and a yarn needle for weaving in ends during finishing.

The recommended gauge is approximately 6½ stitches and 10 rounds over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in Moss stitch. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the cowl reaches the intended finished measurements. The combination of organic wool and alpaca creates a soft, insulating fiber blend that drapes beautifully while maintaining structure.