CIRRUS

This versatile, button closure cowl is the product of some serious brainstorming for a class idea.  I was posed with teaching a condensed version of Knitting for Beginners.  The class usually runs four weeks, put I was asked to teach a three week version.  The usual projects wouldn't do for this time frame, but I still wanted the students to get their basics, all in one project.  This would be tricky!

Driving home one night, the clouds in the sky were set in ever narrowing waving lines.  It suddenly struck me that the answer to this dilemna I had been given might be found in the Feather and Fan Stitch.  The pattern stitches used in this project are modifications of the ever popular Feather and Fan Stitch, which incorporate knits, purls, increase, and decrease to create a feminine, textured cowl.  So, as intricate as this cowl may look, if you have your basics, it is totally doable.

  As the fabric is reversible, it can be worn just as a round cowl, or twisted as a mobius. Another part of the versatility comes from the multiple buttons, which don’t have to be buttoned in order or buttoned all the way.

I-chords create the button loops.

And, the buttons nestle in the soft curves of the cast-off edge.

If you would like to substitute with a yarn other than Berroco’s Voyage, be sure to choose a chainette yarn, as they have very unique properties that have been taken into consideration in this design (this is the reason for the seemingly small gauge for such large needles).  However, if you can get your hands on the original yarn used in this design, you won't be disappointed.  It is so lofting, soft, and warm, it feels like a cloud around your neck!

Interested in knitting this project?  Here is some helpful information.

SIZE:  Ladies: close fitting [52cm (20½") circumference], and draped fit [70cm (27½") circumference]

GAUGE:  16 sts/24 rows = 10cm (4") in Garter Wave Stitch on 9mm (13US) needles

MATERIALS:  

• 2 skeins of Voyage by Berroco for both the close fitting and draped fit cowls
• 1 pair 9mm (13US) needles
• 1 set 9mm (13US) dpn
• 4 medium buttons

Play around with the multiple ways to wear this cowl, and make it your own!