Cartouche Cowl
As I browsed through an assortment of Japanese stitch dictionaries, I was captivated by a stunning pattern that inspired this beautiful cowl. The intricate design immediately brought to mind the elegance of an Egyptian cartouche, and I envisioned it in a deep, vibrant red hue. This striking design, known as the Cartouche Shawl, was originally published in Knitty's Winter 2011 issue. Since then, I have enjoyed incorporating these unique stitch patterns into the Cartouche Slouchy Beret and the Cartouche Stole. However, my creative journey didn’t end there; I knew I wanted to create a coordinating cowl and fingerless gloves to complete this striking set.
The Cartouche Cowl is designed to begin with a provisional cast on, allowing for a seamless finish. The cowl is worked in the round along its circumference, and the two ends are expertly grafted together to create a polished look. The border pattern has been slightly modified from the one used in the Cartouche Stole, so if you’re already familiar with that piece, be sure to pay extra attention to the final few rows of the chart to achieve the best results.
Yarn: You will need approximately 317 (634) yards/290 (580) meters of DK weight wool or merino yarn, which knits up to 5.5 stitches per inch for optimal performance and drape.
Sample: The sample for this pattern was made using Estelle ‘Eco Andean DK Wool,’ which offers 350 yards/320 meters per skein. This yarn is made from 100% merino and weighs 3.53 oz/100 grams. For the best results, I used one skein in colour 004, size short.
Skills Required: To successfully knit the Cartouche Cowl, you should be comfortable with the following techniques:
- Increasing and decreasing
- Following stitch charts
- Cables
- Lace techniques
- Twisted Stitches
- Blocking for a professional finish
If you’re looking for a project that combines elegance, intricate stitchwork, and creativity, the Cartouche Cowl is an ideal choice. It’s perfect for knitters who want to expand their skills while creating a stunning accessory that beautifully showcases this unique stitch pattern. Dive into your next knitting adventure and create a timeless piece that will surely be a conversation starter!
