Tamarind Cowl Knitting Pattern

Tamarind Cowl in Noro Ito

What Is Being Made

The Tamarind Cowl is an advanced-level knitted neck accessory designed to drape elegantly around the shoulders. This cowl features generous dimensions with a neck circumference of 19 inches (48.5 cm), a depth of 11 inches (28 cm) at its longest point, and a width of 15½ inches (39.5 cm) at its widest point. The design creates a sophisticated layered look suitable for a refined wardrobe.

Techniques Used

This project employs several advanced knitting techniques that contribute to its complexity rating. The primary construction method involves brioche stitch, a textured stitch pattern that creates a dimensional, reversible fabric with excellent drape. The pattern requires working with yarn overs to create new stitches, which are then managed carefully in subsequent rows. Decreasing stitches is accomplished using the slip, slip, knit (sssk) technique and knit three together (k3tog) decreases, both of which demand precision to maintain stitch integrity when combined with yarn overs. The cowl also incorporates pick up and knit techniques, where stitches are picked up and worked along an edge to create seamless transitions. Selvage stitches are used as edge stitches to facilitate easier seaming. The pattern includes slip stitches, where stitches are passed from one needle to another without being worked, allowing for subtle shaping and stitch management.

Stitches Used

• Brioche stitch: The foundation stitch creating the primary texture and drape of the cowl
• Knit stitch: Basic knit stitches worked throughout the pattern
• Purl stitch: Purl stitches worked purlwise as specified in pattern instructions
• Yarn over (yo): Stitch increases that create openwork elements and are integral to brioche stitch construction
• Slip, slip, knit (sssk): A left-leaning decrease worked by slipping two stitches knitwise individually, then knitting them together through the front loops
• Knit three together (k3tog): A right-leaning decrease that removes two stitches in a single motion
• Slip stitch: Stitches passed between needles without being worked, used for shaping and pattern management
• Selvage stitch: Edge stitches that improve the finished appearance and seaming ease

Materials and Tools

The Tamarind Cowl is crafted using 1 ball (200 grams) of Noro Ito yarn in colorway #27. Noro Ito is a premium hand-dyed yarn known for its variegated color patterns and luxurious feel. The pattern includes a unique preparation step: the single ball of yarn is wound into 2 separate balls so that colors will be staggered throughout the project, with one ball designated as color A and the other as color B. This technique creates a sophisticated color-blocked or striped effect.

The needles required are one 16-inch circular needle in size US 8 (5mm) for the main construction, along with one set of three size US 8 (5mm) double-pointed needles for working sections that may require smaller circumferences or specialized shaping. The recommended gauge is 15 stitches and 21 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) over brioche stitch using size US 8 (5mm) needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and ensuring the cowl drapes as intended.

Construction Notes

This advanced project demands careful attention to detail, particularly when working decreases in combination with yarn overs. The pattern specifies that when working k3tog or sssk decreases, any yarn overs must be worked together with their corresponding stitches to maintain pattern integrity. The use of two separate color balls allows for sophisticated color management throughout the piece, creating visual interest without requiring complex color-work techniques. The brioche stitch foundation provides excellent elasticity and recovery, making this cowl comfortable for extended wear while maintaining its shape.