Super Soft Merino Fluted Cowl
Our Fluted Cowl combines two of our very favorite things: elegant drama and Super Soft Merino! If you haven’t heard, Super Soft Merino is Purl Soho’s new, very own yarn, and we couldn’t be happier about it!
A loosley spun single ply of 100% Peruvian merino, Super Soft Merino is beautiful, decadent and yes, super soft. For cozy warmth and cuddly comfort, it makes the consummate neck wrapper!
This Fluted Cowl is the perfect expression of everything we love about Super Soft Merino. It is lush and wonderfully indulgent, easy and versatile; it is why we knit! The scale and elegance of this cowl give it an operatic sweep that will carry you through the winter in style.
This fascinating texture is created by a simple pattern called the Fluted Fabric Stitch. Slipped stitches add depth and loftiness, while gentle ribbing creates a soft rhythm. Easy for beginners, quick for everyone? Think holiday gift!
Share your progress and connect with the community by tagging your pics with #PurlSoho, #PurlSohoBusyHands, #PurlSohoFlutedCowl, and #PurlSohoSuperSoftMerino. We can’t wait to see what you make!
Materials
- 6 skeins of Purl Soho’s Super Soft Merino, 100% Merino Wool yarn. Each skein of this bulky weight yarn is 87 yards/ 100 grams; approximately 522 yards required. This color is Oyster Gray.
- A US 17 (12 mm), 32-inch circular needle.
- Jumbo stitch marker (optional)
Gauge
3¼ stitches = 1 inch in pattern stitch
Size
15 inches high and 60 inches around
Note
The Fluted Fabric Stitch works in the round on any multiple of four stitches.
Pattern
Cast on 196 stitches. We used a basic Long Tail Cast On.
Place a marker and join for working in the round being careful to not twist the stitches.
Round 1: *K1, slip 1 with yarn in front (sl1 wyif), k1, p1, repeat from * to end of round.
Round 2: *Sl1 wyif, p1, sl1 wyif, k1, repeat from * to end of round.
Repeat Rounds 1 and 2 until piece measures 15 inches from cast on edge, ending with Round 1.
Working Round 2, bind off in pattern.
Weave in your ends and get cozy!
LEARN ABOUT SUPER SOFT MERINO + ALL OUR BEAUTIFUL YARNS
The best reason to use Super Soft Merino for this project is because it is the dreamiest, cuddliest, toastiest yarn you can imagine! A single ply of 100% merino wool, Super Soft Merino has a nice, loose spin that shows off the softness of its fiber and keeps it nice and lightweight. Its gauge ranges from a chunky/bulky-weight to super bulky-weight (2.75-3.25 stitches per inch), making it a great choice for quick (and beautiful!) hand-knit gifts. And more… Super Soft Merino comes in over 30 amazing colors, too!
More Free Knitting Patterns
- Be sure to explore our vast collection of (mostly free!) Super Soft Merino knitting patterns and cast on!
More Chunky/Bulky + Super Bulky-Weight Yarns
- Shop our entire collection of chunky/bulky weight yarns
- Shop our entire collection of super bulky-weight yarns
- If you want to use a different yarn, be sure to take the time to get the correct gauge. Need help? Check our All About Gauge Tutorial!
More Yarns With Similar Fibers
- Shop merino wool
Looking for more inspiration? Explore all of our free knitting patterns and knitting tutorials, buy one of our many knitting kits and yarn bundles, and shop for beautiful yarn. We have over 35 gorgeous natural fiber yarns in 100’s of magnificent colors, designed to bring integrity, beauty, and joy to your next knitting project and only available at Purl Soho!
I am interested in a pattern for the grey sweatshirt style sweater at the top of the Purl Bee page. Is it available?
Thanks!
Hi Kathy-
You can find links to all of the projects on our banner in our “on the banner” page at the top of the page. Here's the link: http://purlbee.squarespace.com/on-the-banner/
Thank you for your question!
Molly
Hi.. This is lovely. Do you slip as to purl or slip as if to knit? Thanks.
Hi Suzy-
It's slip as if to purl. Unless a pattern states otherwise the rule of thumb is always slip as if to purl.
Thank you!
Molly
'love your patterns and yarn. How do I print just the pattern for Fluted Cowl? Tthank you
Hi Mary Jane-
The best way to print a pattern from our site is to copy and paste the text and images you want into a Word or Text document and print from there. We realize this isn't ideal and hope to make it easier in the future.
Thank you!
Molly
Can you send this as a kit?! I live in IL and I would like a simple pretty pattern, this works perfectly!
It looks really long to me… is there a method to shortening the length a bit?
Hi Heather-
You can make it any length you like! Just make sure to cast on a multiple of 4 stitches and keep in mind that the gauge is 3 1/4 stitches per inch. For instance if you'd like to make it 40-inches in circumference:
3.25 (stitches per inch) X 40 (inches)= 130, rounded up to the nearest multiple of 4= 132 stitches to cast on.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
Hi Jazmin-
We don't have a kit for this but you can find links to all the materials you'll need above in the “Materials” section of the pattern and we ship anywhere!
Thank you!
Molly
Hi. I am sorta new to knitting.. I would like to know what WYIF would stand for in knitting terms. I love this and want to try and make it. Tks
Hi Teri-
WYIF means “with yarn in front” as explained in the round 1 instructions. Please let us know if you have any more questions and good luck with the pattern!
Molly
Hi Molly,
that is really a lovely pattern! Is it possible to knit this pattern in rows instead of rounds?
Thanks a lot,
Julia
Hi Molly!
Your website, blog, products, EVERYTHING= slick slick slick!
Just lovely. I wish I could visit the store. I hope you all are ok right now.
May I ask your thoughts on if you think the Fluted Cowl would look good in sock weight? Giant needles really hurt my hands. (5-7's are least painful- carpal tunnel)
How would I adjust the pattern, do you think, or is it just not worth it since its a (gorgeous!) bulky cowl in the first place…?
Dying to knit it!
Kristin
Hi! I knit the continental way. Will that result in the same pattern?
Hi Miriam-
Knitting continental style will not affect the pattern.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
Hi Kristin-
I think this pattern would be beautiful in a thinner gauge as well but you'll need to do a gauge swatch to figure out how many stitches to cast on. This pattern works with any multiple of 4 stitches.
Thank you so much for your kind words. Everyone is just fine after the storm, thank you for your concern.
Best-
Molly
Hi Julia-
Yes, you can knit it straight:
Cast on a multiple of 4 plus 1
Row 1 (RS): P1, *k1, sl 1 wyif, k1, p1; rep from * to end.
Row 2: K1, *sl 1 wyib, p1, sl 1 wyib, k1; rep from * to end
repeat these two rows until the scarf is the desired length.
Thank you!
Molly
This is gorgeous! I really must learn how to knit/crochet
do you start the *K1 right after you put the ring marker on the right or does joining in the round mean you purl right after the cast on? sorry, so confused!!
Hi Katie-
You do start the *K1 right after you put on the ring marker, no extra stitches are required.
Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Hi! Wonderful cowl! The pattern and yarn selection complement each other beautifully! Two questions about the cowl photo under the header: How is the cowl wrapped? (Folded widthwise??) How many times did you loop the cowl around the dress form's 'neck'?
Thank You!!!
Need clarification: On Row 2, directions say “S1 wyif, p1, sl1 wyif, k1”. – does this mean you have 2 slip stitches in Row 2? Question whether S1 same as sl1? Could not find a mention of any other stitch with the abbreviation using S1 as opposed sl1. Need to get going to get this done for Christmas!
Thanks!!
Hi Saki-
1. It's folded in half width wise so the right side is showing.
2. It's looped around the of the dress form once.
Thanks for your questions!
Molly
Just curious if we are connecting at the end of the round. Or working as if they were needles.
And do you have a turtorial for this sl wyif ( because it sounds just like a purl stitch. I am new to knitting and have most of the basics down. But have not heard of this stitch yet.
im having a hard time with your directins. maybe because im new to knitting. do i have this correct
Round 1: Knit 1 slip1 with yarn in front…( are whats in parenthesis saying the same thing? because it looks like slip11 with yarn in front) the lower case l and the 1 look alike. Sothis is where i am confused.
Round 2 you have S1 does that mean slip 1? with yarn in fron, purl 1 slip 11? with yarn in the front, knit 1 to end of round.
My confusion is with the S's and the 1's that could be an L or 1?
Hi, I was wondering what yarn weight you're using (ie worsted, bulky etc), as I'm in the UK and wanted to find something in the uk that is similar to the one that's specified, alternatively what could I substitute it with? any suggestions would be useful.
P.s love all your patterns and thank you for your help in this matter
Vai xx
Hi Vai-
Our Super Soft Merino is a chunky weight. You can see more specific gauge and length info here: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/8944-Purl-Soho-Super-Soft-Merino
Good luck and thanks for your question!
Molly
ps- we ship to the UK all the time! : )
Hi Dorie-
You are connecting in the round.
A sl 1 wyif is slipping the stitch over to the right hand needle as if to purl and the yarn is in front as well.
And here are the instructions written out a little differently. Hopefully it's more clear for you:
Place a marker and join for working in the round being careful to not twist the stitches.
Round 1: *K1, slip 1 with yarn in front, k1, p1, repeat from * to end of round.
Round 2: *slip 1 wyif, p1, slip 1 wyif, k1, repeat from * to end of round.
Repeat Rounds 1 and 2 until piece measures 15 inches from cast on edge, ending with Round 1.
Working Round 2, bind off in pattern.
Please let us know if you have any more questions, and good luck with the project!
Faye
I like the look of the cast-on edge. Can you tell me which cast-on was used? Thanks!
Hi Nancy-
We used the long tail cast on. http://purlbee.squarespace.com/cast-on-tutorial/2006/9/29/cast-on-long-tail-method-1.html
Thank you for your question!
Molly
I'm curious about this conversion: the original pattern (in the round) has Round 2: *Sl1 wyif, p1, sl1 wyif, k1, repeat from * to end of round but in the straight version (round 2) is row 2- *sl 1 wyib, p1, sl 1 wyib, k1* rep from * to end. why does the 'wyif' change to 'wyib'? Not questioning but would love to know as i am not a fan of cowls and would prefer some patterns for scarves (straight). Thank you!!!!
Hi Angela,
To my understanding, when knitting in the round, the “right side” of the piece is always facing you, whereas in the straight version you have a “right side” and “wrong side”. In order to keep the integrity of the pattern, you s1wyib in the straight version to make the “wrong side” look like the one knit in the round
For the straight pattern conversion I noticed that the row1 has 5 stitches and row 2 has only 4 stitches? Am I reading the pattern wrong or is there a step I am missing?
Hi Teresa-
Sorry it took so long to get back to you! Here is the corrected straight pattern:
Row 1 (RS): P1, *k1, sl 1 wyif, k1, p1; rep from * to end.
Row 2: K1, *sl 1 wyib, p1, sl 1 wyib, k1; rep from * to end
Hope that clarifies things! Thank you!
Molly
Hello,
In the picture above, is the cowl wrapped twice around the neck or three times?
Thank you!
Hi Rebecca-
It's wrapped twice.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
A quick question:
in the first and second rounds after you have S1 Wyif, do u move the yarn to the back before the K1?
love this scarf 🙂
Thank you.
Hi Chelsea-
Yes, you do move the yarn to the back before the K1.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
is this good for a beginner? i am just starting out and LOVE this! I'm a little scared…
I love this……looks like the infinity scarves that are so popular. My Mom does not knit, but does crochet. Just wondering if there would happen to be a pattern to crochet this.
Thank you!
Hi Lisa-
We don't have this particular pattern in crochet. Here is a link to all of our crochet patterns: http://purlbee.squarespace.com/crochet-projects/
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Hi Nancy-
I wouldn't knit this for my first project but if you've completed a couple of things and are looking to go to the next level this would be a good pattern. You might give it a try with some spare yarn before you take the plunge.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Hi
I have started the cowl twice because the knit stitch does not line up on the first rows. I have completed 3 rounds. Any suggestion please?
Hi Patty-
I'm not sure I understand your question since the knit stitches aren't supposed to line up with one another. It could be that you just haven't gotten far enough to see the pattern take shape yet? Maybe try knitting a few more rounds and see what it looks like. If that isn't it please get back in touch.
Thank you!
Molly
I am planning on doing this project as a gift for my husband. The pattern seems pretty straight forward and I have had no problem finding a great yarn I know he will love. However, I cannot seem to find the needles listed under the materials, not even on your site. I can only seem to find the size 17 circular needles at 29″ length. Will this work instead of the 32″?
Thank you.
Hi Ashley-
We are sold out of the needles at the moment but a 29-inch should be OK but maybe a little crowded. You could probably use a 40-inch length as well.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I made the Fluted Cowl for my daughter in law for Christmas with the oyster grey Super Soft Merino yarn. She loves it and wears it all the time. She want to know how to clean it. When I finished it I just steam blocked it as I didn't want to make it bigger. I don't see cleaning instructions for this yarn. I will be visiting her in 2 weeks and said I would do it while I am visiting. Help!! I love your site and products.
Can this be done with regular needles rather than circular?
Hi Greta-
The cowl can be hand washed with a gentle cleanser and then laid flat to dry. We carry a great gentle cleanser called Soak that you can see here:
https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/10-knitting-crochet-notions-tools?company=240
Thank you so much from writing in!
Molly
Hi,
I'm from Australia and was wondering what the equivalent wool would be ? Is it 12 ply ?
Curious question, and it might just be because I'm a beginner however how do the finish project end up being 60" if the circular needs are 32"?
Thanks, Cara
Hi Cara-
When knitting in the round your circumference will always be larger than the length of the needles. This is so the work can fit around the needles without stretching. The stitches on the needles are sort of squished together so they all fit. It might not make a lot of sense until you try it!
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Hi Steph-
It will be roughly equivalent to a 12 ply but the most important thing is that you're getting the right gauge: 3 1/4 stitches = 1 inch in pattern stitch
Thanks for writing in!
Molly
Hi,
I love the pattern but I am in agreement with Patti and Kathy in that I can't get the knit pattern to line up. I think you have a typo in your pattern some where in your circular knitting pattern. I'll see if I can figure out and post the correction.
Thanks,
Candace
Hi Candace-
The pattern is correct. If you are looking at the pattern from the wrong side the knit columns should line up, not on the right side.
I can see your confusion because the top photo shows both the wrong side.
Thanks for your question!
Faye
I am about to attempt to knit it straight and not in the round and am just wondering why in the round its length should be in a multiple of 4, but in your response to Julia for the flat pattern you suggest it should be a multiple of 4 plus one? Thanks in advance!
Dear Kirsty,
Would love to know if your attempt to knit this pattern in flat was successful. Fancy sharing your experience and new findings please? Successful and not so successful alike.
I just do not want to give up, specially on this one.
Happy Knitting!
I am completely in love with this scarf!! I splurged on the yarn (Desert Blue, I believe the name is) and it was worth every penny!! Seriously! It is so soft
I am using a 29 inch circular needle and it works just fine (I saw someone asked about that)
I suggest using markers every 20 stitches or so to make sure that you aren't making any mistakes. I had to restart mine a couple times because I was messing up stitches and had no idea where I made the mistake. I cannot wait to wear it. Thanks so much for this pattern 🙂
Hi
I have just started and only done 4 rows but can already see mine isn't lining up. The stocking stitch has a purl stitch cross it. Each time I end the round on the correct 4 th stitch but I know already its not right. I cast on 184 stitches.
I sent a message yesterday but cant find it. I have done 3 rounds and I'm sure it's wrong. On your photos there is a definite stocking stitch pattern. I emailed a photo to
[email protected]
I have recounted my stitches. Not sure what is happening.
Hi Liz-
I have received your email and will respond directly to you shortly. Your previous comment just hadn't been approved yet since it was left over the weekend. The stitch pattern on this is not a stockinette stitch and the pattern takes a while to become clear as you're knitting. I have sent your photo to Faye, who knit this cowl and I'll let you know what she has to say.
Thank you for getting in touch!
Molly
Hi Molly
Now that the work measures about 6 inches I can see the pattern and its going well. However have found one stitch on the wrong side on the rib line that is wrong and I'm not sure how to go back and correct it. I can locate which of the 4 stitches it is but have only ever undone plain knitting down to the error. I really don't want to pull off all the rows. Hubby says its barely noticeable. I'll send a picture of the actual stitch.
HI Liz,
Unless you're very experienced, you'll have to rip out your knitting back to the mistake in order to fix it. Maybe hubby's right!
Thanks for asking and I'm so happy it's working out!
Whitney
Just want to confirm that every time the pattern says to S1 that it is always purl wise no matter what stitch comes after it.
Hi Amy-
Yes, you're correct, it's always slip as if to purl.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I have starter this project 4 times, and i am having problems seing the pattern. I wonder if Chantal, Kathy, and Liz figure it out. I am to my end wits.
Hi Mariana-
I'm so sorry to hear you're having a problem with this! The pattern is correct. What are you having problems with exactly? Please let us know. We'd be happy to try to help!
Molly
I just finished this scarf and absolutely love it! It knit up pretty quickly and is my first infinity scarf. I've only knit toques prior to this and it was a great project for something new and a little more challenging. Just in time for fall! Absolutely love your site, thanks for the pattern!
Hi! I love this pattern. I'm about to cast off. Do I have to cast off in pattern on row 2? I just wanted to double check since I wasn't sure if the slipped stitches would make my cast off kind of tight. Thanks!
Jessica
Ps. I love your whole website!
bonjour votre modele est tres mais je voudrais savoir que veux dire P1 et K1 merci
Très simple.
P1 = 1 maille à l’envers!
K1 = 1 maille à l’endroit!
Voilà. Bon projet
Hi Molly,
I've got it! At first I did not realize that the pattern shown in the pic, was at the back of the knitting. And then I must have made some mistakes. But finally I got it, I am at 13 inches wide, almost done!! and it looks really nice, Thank you!
Hi!
This is a beautiful pattern! Do you think it would work with Plymouth Baby Alpaca Brush and size 13 needles? I noticed that you sized up four sizes from what the Merino calls for and my Plymouth yarn calls for a size 9 needle.
Thanks,
Laney
Hi Lacey- I’m not familiar with the yarn you mention but it sounds like it would be a bit thin. You need to look for something that is a chunky weight that gets a recommended 2.75 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch.
Thank you!
Molly
Dear Molly,
your reply confuses me. You write:
“Our Super Soft Merino takes a size 13 needle normallly so we didn’t move up in needle sizes.”
But the cowl’s instructions call for a size 17 needle, so you DID move up in needle sizes, didn’t you?
I also want to use a different yarn an have problems with my gauge swatches. My yarn has exactly the same characteristics as the Super Soft Merino: Same weight/length, same given gauge.
In stockinette stitch, I exactly get the gauge that the Super Soft Merino page on purlbee.com asks for (11 stitches = 4″ with size 13 needles).
But when knitting the pattern stitch on size 17, I get less stitches than the instructions call for. So, I went down in needle size and tried size 15 (11 stitches = 4″) and size 13 (12 stitches = 4″). I also tried size 11 but found it too stiff.
Usually, I would recalculate the pattern for my pattern stitch gauge, but In this case, I wonder if there is a mistake in the Flute Cowl’s gauge instructions because of the fact that I exactly knit the yarn page’s gauge but not the one given in the Flute Cowl pattern itself.
Kind regards,
Anja
(Sorry, English is not my mother tongue.)
Hi Anja-
Sorry for the confusion, we did indeed go up a few needle sizes for this- I have edited the reply that you are referencing so it should be more clear now.
There is not a mistake in the cowl’s gauge but the needle size that we suggest is always just a suggestion, everyone knits differently so it’s possible that you might have to go down a few needle sizes to get the correct gauge. And without seeing the other yarn that you’re using I’m not able to tell exactly why you’re not getting a fabric that you like. However, if you like the fabric you’re getting on a larger needle you can simply cast on fewer stitches. This will work with any multiple of 4 stitches.
Thanks for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Best-
Molly
Dear Molly,
thank you for your answer!
I guess it was overlapping with my second posting in which I asked not only for the gauge’s stitches but also for the rows. The lack of this information might be the reason for my gauge confusion.
As I wrote in my second posting, a knitted swatch is elastic. You can get a different count of stitches at the same swatch by pulling it differently; in case of the “Fluted Cowl”, this difference can be 2 or 3 stitches in 4″, the pattern is more elastic in width.
If you pull your swatch widthwise, you will count less stitches in a 4″ square but more rows. If you pull your swatch lengthwise, you will count more stitches but less rows in a 4″ square.
That’s why I would really appreciate to get the gauge’s stiches and rows; as long as the last information isn’t given, one is not able to trust on the final measurements of the cowl and its yarn usage. In that way, even a recalculation of rows (of course, you can change the CO stiches and take different needle sizes and yarns) wouldn’t make sense because it would be inexact, too, with only using stitch information but not row information.
Of course, I could try and rib if I wouln’t get the right measurements. But in my case, the yarn from my stash that I want to use for the cowl isn’t the best for ribbing. It starts felting very easily and loses gloss by ribbing. Also, I only have exactly the yardage that the pattern calls for and I’d really like to have the same measurements (and not a shorter one or a cowl that’s longer but not wide enough), because I think they are perfect for this very nice looking cowl!
Dear Molly, it would be really great if you could tell me and others the rows that our gauge should show in 4″ while we can count 13 stitches in the same 4″ square. (Rows and stitches are dependent because of elasticity, so it would be necessary to check both again in a 4″ square.)
Thank you for your patience!
(I hope that my text doesn’t sound rude. As I already told, English is not my mother tongue. In case it should sound rude, I am sorry for that. It is not ment to do!)
Best regards,
Anja
Dear Molly,
I forgot something.
It would be very helpful if you’d write down not only the stitches but also the rows of the gauge; because the knitted fabric is stretchy, the gauge of one swatch can vary between 2 and 3 stitches in this case:
The more you pull your swatch in width, the less stitches and the more rows you count in 4″; the swatch becomes wider and shorter.
The more you pull your swatch in length, the more stitches and the less rows you count in 4″; the swatch becomes longer.
It would be really great if you could tell me the number of rows that should be counted while 13 stitches in width can be seen. This would make it much easier for me to chose the right needle size.
Kind regards,
Anja
Hi Anja-
The row gauge for this is 3 rows per inch.
Thank you!
Molly
Dear Molly,
and again our answers were overlapping!
Before I posted again, I reloaded my browser page. After sending it, your answer appeared.
Thank you very much for this helpful information and your patience!
I am happy because now, I can start with this nice cowl! Thank you for sharing the pattern with us! (I found it via Ravelry)
Best regards,
Anja
Dear Molly,
sorry, me again!
“The row gauge for this is 3 rows per inch.”
But this can’t work with 3.25 stitches per inch. This knitting pattern is constucted that way that you always have more rows than stitches in a square. It doesn’t matter if you’re a tight, normal oder lose knitter, the proportion will stay the same: More rows than stitches in a square.
Maybe, you measured those 3 rows without checking the stitches again at the same time? It is also important to know where to count! It makes a difference if you count them in a “slipped stitch line” oder in a line where every stitch has been knit. Such a “line” (where every stitch was knitted) would be the middle line between the “braids”.
Kind regards,
Anja
Hi Anja-
I’m not sure I understand your comment about this pattern needing to have more rows than stitches in a square but luckily, in a pattern like this, the row gauge isn’t very important. Since you never need to count rows but instead are instructed to knit for X amount of inches the row gauge isn’t a very useful measure.
It sounds like you’re having a hard time getting the correct gauge over all but again, in the case of this cowl it isn’t super important that the gauge is exact since the finished piece doesn’t have to fit as precisely as a hat or sweater would. So if you like the fabric you are getting with the yarn and needles you’re using I’d advise you to go for it! As long as your gauge is in the same ball park you’ll end up with a beautiful cowl!
Thanks!
Molly
Hello, I love your pattern, but I don't understand how to knit it 🙁 the point's name are different in france, so it is difficult for me to translate this !!
Is it possible to have more information about it? thanks!
Is there any chance there is a pattern to crochet this cowl. It is beautiful and I would like to crochet it not much of a knitter. Thanks.
Hi Theresa-
We don't have a crochet pattern for this specifically but we do have a similar crochet cowl, made from the same yarn here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/the-purl-bee/2013/9/19/whits-knits-crocheted-rib-cowl.html
Thank you!
Molly
Hi Theresa-
We would love to help you but we aren't sure what extra information you need. We don't speak French so we're not sure how we can help. But please let us know if you have any specific questions!
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
Im a little confused, im new at knitting and so from my understanding the length of the circular needles will basically be the length of the scarf? Why is it that when I look for the circular needles it seems but shorter? Does the scarf stretch out after you take it off the needles?
Hi Lyna-
Yes, needles can fit quite a lot of stitches on a circular needle and once you take the scarf off of the needles it will be the correct circumference.
Thanks!
M
I was just wondering if there is a way to adapt this stitch pattern to be a hat. I am absolutely in love with my cowl, but cannot seem to find instructions on how to decrease in the fluted fabric stitch for the top of a hat
Hi Caitlin,
Unfortunately at the moment we do not have the resources to turn this pattern into a hat pattern. We would want to test different decrease methods in combination with stitch counts before blindly suggesting a particular technique. We will definitely put it on our list of requests though. We really do appreciate your interest and hopefully we can get to this soon.
Thank you for writing in.
Best,
Laura
Hey! I love this cowl and would love to make it, unfortunately due to shipping and prices I can't quite get the wool used, I have alpaca cotton at home, 50g, approx 148yards to a ball and used with 5mm needles (us size 8 I believe.)
I was wondering if this could work with the pattern and if so how many should I cast on? I just adore this pattern and would love to make it with the beautiful wool I have.
Thanks!
Hi Becca-
You can certainly use whatever you have and adapt the pattern! You will need to to a gauge swatch, in the round, in pattern to determine how many to cast on. Once you know how many stitches per inch you are getting in pattern you multiply that number by 60 (inches) which is the finished circumference. For instance, if you end up getting 5 stitches per inch you will need to cast on 300 stitches. Just make sure the cast on number is a multiple of 4.
With that said, the great thing about a pattern like this, which doesn't need to fit as precisely as a sweater or a hat, is that it's pretty flexible. As long as you cast on a multiple of 4 stitches the pattern will work. It's really up to you how large you want to make it.
Thank you!
Molly
I am newish knitter and am currently working on this cowl. It is gorgeous and easy to do. I read all the comments and found the tip of adding the stitch markers at 48, 48, 48 and 52 has helped to make sure I don't make a mistake. Highly suggest for new knitters. This is absolutely gorgeous and can't wait to make another one using the Purl Soho yarn. I am making mine with a cheaper yarn as I wanted to make sure I could do it before making the investment. I just wish I could visit NY and come to the store.
I just discovered your site and I am so impressed with everything I see. I am especially with Molly. You seem to have "the patience of Job" with those of us who are new or renewed to knitting. The comments and answered questions are so helpful.Thank you Molly, I hope you know what a treasure you are to us.
Hi Sandy-
Thanks for writing in, that is so sweet! I'm the comment moderator so that's why you see my name after a lot of answers. But the technical questions that help people though a patten are usually answered by the pattern's specific author.
Thanks again- you made my day!
Molly
Hi, I bought malibrigo's mecha for this project, but Because the gauge is a bit smaller than that of the yarn that you used, I was wondering if I can still yield the same result? The mecha isn't as chunky.
Hi Serena-
The only way to tell for sure is to knit a swatch in the pattern, in the round, and then measure the gauge you're getting. If you are getting a smaller gauge you can just cast on more stitches. This pattern works by casting on any multiple of 4 stitches.
Thanks!
Molly
Hi,
I made this cowl recently and and came out beautiful except I realized when I was done that the bind off edge was a smaller circumference and tighter than the cast on edge. To put it another way, my cast on edge is able to stretch while there is no give on the bind off edge. Perhaps I did something wrong? Do you have any suggestions to avoid something like this in the future?
Thanks!
Hi Lindsay-
It seems like you may have bound off too tightly. It's a very common problem so a lot of people use a needle 3 sizes bigger just for the cast-off (doesn't matter the type or shape or circular or straight).
Hope that helps!
Molly
Hello,
I have completed all of this pattern and love it, but I have not binded off as I am not sure how to "bind off in pattern" with this (I have never completed a pattern with that requirement before). Would it be possible to receive more detailed instructions on how that goes?
Thank you!
Hi Zoe.
You end with Row 1. So you'll want to bind off in pattern while working Row 2. To do this….
Slip 1 wyif, *p1, use the left needle to pick up slipped stitch and pull it over purled stitch and off the right needle, Slip 1 wyif, use left needle to pick up purled stitch and pull it over knit stitch and off the right needle, k1, use left needle to pick up slipped stitch and pull it over knit stitch and off the right needle, Slip 1 wyif, use left needle to pick up knitted stitch and pull it over knit stitch and off the right needle… then you go back to the *, so you'll slip 1 wyif and use the left needle to pick up the knit stitch and pull it over the slipped stitch and off the right needle, then you'll p1 and bind off that slipped stitch and then youll knit one and bind off that purled stitch, etc etc etc.
Does this help clarify? Please let us know if you have any questions at all!
Laura
I am confused on the cast off. There are 4 stitches in the pattern:
1 . S1wyf
2. P1
3. S1wyf
4. K1
When casting off do I follow this pattern? The reply above seems to be telling me to :
1. S1wyf, p1, bind off
2. K1, bind off over purl stitch
3. Then return to S1wyf, and bind off over knit stitch
Is there not a slip stitch missing in the this process
Madeleine.
Ps – my project is all finished and looks fantastic. I just do not want to mess it up at his point. Thanks for any clarification.
Hi Madeleine!
It looks like we might have missed the second slip in the comment you were refering to! I’ve gone back to fix that comment as well. It should become: S1wyif, *p1, bind slipped stitch over, s1wyif, bind purl stitch over, k1, bind slipped stitch over, s1wyif, bind knit stitch over – then repeat from *.
Happy Knitting!
-Thomas
Hi, I’m a serious novice to knitting and I have a question about the “slip one with yarn in front” maneuver. Can you explain that or direct me to where I might find that information? And offhand could you tell me how many skeins I might need if I used a 24 inch needle instead? Thank you for your time and consideration, and I love your site. Katerina
Hi Katerina-
To slip one with yarn in front: pull your working yarn in front (like you would if you were going to purl), insert your right needle into the first stitch on your left needle as if you were going to purl it, and then slip that stitch off of the left needle and on to your right needle without knitting or purling it.
The length of your needle will not matter to how many skeins you will need but if you would like to make a cowl with a smaller circumference you could cast on 100 stitches for a cowl that is roughly 30 inches around on a 24-inch needle. In that case you would need 3 skeins of the Super Soft Merino.
Thanks for your questions!
Molly
Thank you! Sounds like an easier move than I thought! And the pattern calls for size 17 circulars? Can’t wait to try this! Greatly appreciated help. Katerina
Hi Katerina-
Yes, it calls for a US size 17.
Thanks!
Molly
I love this pattern! I’m working on it now in a soft, fluffy blue wool and I’m in love with the thick yummy fabric it’s making.
I’ve only been knitting for a couple of years and your bandanna cowl was one of my first projects. I *love* how clearly written and easy to follow all of your patterns are. Thank you for sharing another masterpiece!
Hi,
I wonder if this cowl is designed to wrap two or three times around one’s neck?
Thanks so much!
Amy
Hi Amy-
It’s designed to wrap twice.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I want to make this about 45-inches instead of 60-inches. I calculated co 136 st. instead of 196 st. Would this be correct? I’m not used to calculating changes. 60-inches will be too long for me…I’m so short. Thanks!
Judy
Hi Judy-
By my calculations you should cast on 148 stitches to get a 45-inch long cowl. But 136 would also work (since it’s a multiple of 4) it would just be a few inches shorter!
Please let us know if you need any more help and thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
I would also like to make the cowl a bit shorter and will cast on 148 stitches. My question is how many skeins do you think this will need if I use the yarn in the pattern?
Thanks.
P.S. Already made the Bandana Cowl, so beautiful. Thx.
Hi Donna-
You will need 6 skeins. You might actually get away with using 5 if you don’t mind it being a little shallower.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Hi! Love this pattern but I have a quick question. Should the slipped stitched be “as if to knit” or “as if to purl”? I know the working yarn is in front as indicated, but I can’t sort out whether you want the working needle to be inserted through the front or back of the loop…I’ve worked the pattern twice for a total of four rows and it feels like my stitches are a little twisted or tight somehow and I’m wondering if I’m slipping in the wrong direction. Thanks ladies!!
Hi Caroline-
You should slip as if to purl. If the instructions don’t tell you otherwise you always slip as if to purl.
I hope this helps. Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Best-
Molly
What cast on is used in this pattern?
Hi Cassie-
We used a long tail cast on for this pattern.
Thank you!
Molly
Can this be knitted flat? If so, what would be the multiple, 4? Thanks!
Hi Claudia!
Unfortunately, the way the pattern is written will not work the same flat. If you would like to try to knit it flat, remember that everything in row 2 needs to be reversed: the order of the stitches, knits become purls and vice versa, and a slip wyif becomes a slip wyib. If I were attempting to adjust this to be flat, I would probably add a couple of “selvedge” stitches on both sides as well.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
I am new to infinity scarves; never had one or made one. I’m trying to pick a pattern to knit for a Christmas gift for my daughter. This one looks awfully long on the model above; when it is worn as a cowl is it looped around only twice? Or do you have to cross it over 3 times to get it to hug your neck?
Hi Mercy-
The top photo shows it wrapped around the neck twice. But if you’d like to make it smaller you can cast on less stitches, just make sure you cast on a multiple of 4 stitches.
Thank you for your question!
Molly
I love the look of your new Merino Script yarn – do you think that would work well for this cowl? (Or perhaps the Blue Sky Worsted?) I assume I’d go down a few needle sizes, maybe to 13 or 14? Thanks very much for your help.
Hi Alyssa!
I think it would be wonderful to see the texture of the Script yarn in the Fluted Cowl! The yarn is definitely thinner than the Super Soft Merino. I would probably go down in needle size. If you are adjusting for size, just keep in mind that you need a multiple of 4 stitches.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Alysa, did you end up completing this project with script? I’m fry ng to start now but I’ve very new to knitting and would love to know the number you need to cast on.
Do you have any thoughts on how this might translate into a little beanie?
Hi Orly-
This could be very cute! It might be a bit of a challenge to figure out the decreases but you could always just finish the hat by pulling the stitches together as we did in this project: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2012/12/11/mollys-sketchbook-super-simple-super-soft-merino-baby-hat/
Thank you!
Molly
Could this scarf be knit on straight needles (instead of circular) and stitched closed? Or would the pattern make the seam too noticeable?
Hi Jenny!
I don’t think there would be a really good way to place a mattress seam that would not be noticeable. Also, this stitch would not work as written when knit flat. I’d suggest knitting it in the round!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi,
I love this Fluted Cowl and would really like to make it in the Woolfolk Far yarn. Would you be able to tell me how much yarn I would need and needle size?
Thanks so much,
Teri
Hi Teri!
The Woolfolk yarn is gorgeous! I would use a needle size just a little bit larger than what you would usually use for worsted weight yarn. It’s hard to say with certainty how much yarn you need, but I would tentatively say about twice as much yardage as the pattern calls for in the thicker weight for a worsted weight version. Definitely get more than you might think you need since it is an adjustment to the pattern!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
I am making this for someone who is 5′ tall. Would you recommend making it shorter? I’m worried she might have to wind it around too many times.
Hi Rebecca!
It is meant to be a very full cowl, that is wrapped around 3 times on most people! If you would like to make a 2/3 version, you could cast on two thirds of the amount of stitches; just don’t forget to adjust to a number divisible by 4!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Can you provide guidance on the WYIF instruction: Row 2 calls for a SI wyif K1. The K1 wyif forces the yarn to cross over the previously slipped stitch as I wrap it to complete the knit. Is that the intent?
Should I always move the yarn to be front ahead of the next stitch?
Many thanks.
Hi Pat!
To slip a stitch with the yarn in front you should: First, move the yarn forward (or leave it forward if you have just completed a purl). Second, you should slip the next stitch. Last, move the yarn back (or leave it forward if the next stitch is a purl.
Hope this clarifies!
Thomas
Hi so I’m on my second try because I undid the 4 rows I had once because I wasn’t seeing a pattern at all, now the 5th row in and the same. This is my first time knitting in the round so i want to make sure I’m getting this right. The transition from row 1 to row 2 would be *K1, slip 1 with yarn in front, k1, p1 then immediately slip 1 wyif, p1, slip 1 wyif, k1. the purls seems too close together… Please help I love this pattern.
Thanks!
Hi Katharina!
It sounds like you are reading the pattern correctly! Keep in mind that the “right side” of the pattern shows up on the side facing away from you as you knit.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi, I love this pattern. My question is when you Sl1 WYIF, are you slipping as if to knit or purl? Thank you
Heather
Hi Heather!
You’ll almost always slip as if to purl in any pattern if it is not specified (unless you’re doing a decrease). Just be sure to slip without twisting the stitch, and have the working yarn in front!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
I simply love this project. Have loved it for long before picking up the needles. New to knitting in the round, I may add here.
I have tried knitting the above pattern with 300 sts twice. The pattern simply won’t work! By the end of the second round , things go haywire. It somehow does not finish as the pattern describes. Moreover it does not look anything like the pictures shown. I know that the right side is opposite side of knitting. Am I expecting the pattern to show up too early?
I am more disappointed than frustrated since I really really want to accomplish this gorgeous cowl.
Please help. Thanks.
Hi there!
Hang in there! I think you’ll be able to get it to work out. It does take about 4 rows to really see the pattern show up (at least). When I knit this one, it took me quite a few rows to feel comfortable with the rhythm. Take it a little slower, and maybe use about 10 stitch markers placed in multiples of 4 (something like every 40 stitches) as a checkpoint.
-Thomas
My daughter loved this beautiful cowl and asked me to knit it for her. I have to admit, like one of the other commentors, I was struggling to establish the pattern. I kept coming out wrong at the end of a row which was frustrating to go back over 100 stitches to find my error. I finally placed markers every 16 stitches with the last marker being 20 (or you could cast on 192 and just place them every 16). This helped me catch an error quicker and eased my frustration. I now can see the pattern and very happy with my progress!
Hello !
It may sound stupid but I’d love to knit this. My problem is that I cannot get any proper translation. Is there any chance you can send me a more explicit pattern that i could translate or have translated more easily please ?
Thanks a lot :-))
Emilie
Hi Emilie-
We are happy to help you with any steps that you don’t understand but we aren’t able to rewrite the entire pattern. You may want to check out our Knitting Abbreviations page here: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/knit/terms/ which may clarify some things. And please do let us know about any specific questions you have on any of the steps.
Best-
MOlly
I would love to make this but smaller – I looked through the comments, but didn’t see if this would work – does it just need an even number of cast on stitches? I am thinking about half the length since it is for a child.
Hi Karen-
This works with any multiple of 4 stitches. This info is in the “Note” section of the pattern. So, if you want to make it half as long I’d cast on either 96 or 100 stitches.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
I love the look of this pattern, but am having trouble. I’ve tried it three times, and every time, it seems I am slipping the same stitch (the 1st slipped stitch of the repeat) over and over for every row – 1st & 2nd rows. Those stitches never get worked, so my piece gets pulled tighter and tighter there. I’m working this with the flat directions (not in the round). What am I doing wrong? Thanks for your help!
Hi Maggie!
If you are adjusting this pattern to be flat, be sure that you are adjusting the order, as well as the direction of the stitches (and only in every other row). The slipped stitches should not line up on top of each other.
Thanks for your question!
-Thomas
I am using Berroco Vintage yarn. It is 3.5 oz-100g. It says the guage is 5sts=1″ or 4.5sts=1″. I have #10 circular 32″ needle. How do I figure out the number of stitches to cast on? Or do I just follow the directions as given? This is my first time making a infinity scarf.
Hi Bea!
Your yarn is very much thinner than the one that is called for. In order to figure out your cast-on, you need to do a gauge (for directions click here). Then you’ll take your gauge per inch and multiply by 60 inches to get your cast-on number. Just keep in mind that you need your end result to be divisible by 4!
Thanks for your question!
Thomas
Would this stitch work with a true möbius cast on?
Hi Linda!
This stitch isn’t quite symmetrical, so I’m not sure that it would work for the second half of the round when you are knitting off the other side of the cast-on. If you try it, and it works out, you’ll have to let us know!
Thanks for your question!
Thomas
I usually find wool very scratchy. Is this yarn soft enough for folks like me?
Hi Hannah-
It is extremely soft but it’s all a matter of taste and individual sensitivity. I might recommend that you order one skein and don’t have it wound. That way you can exchange it for store credit if it isn’t soft enough for you.
Thanks!
Molly
Hello! I was traveling for work this week and purchased 3 skeins of Madeline Tosh A.S.A.P. (90 yards each, bulky weight, 10 stitches = 4in). I was thinking of this pattern, but realize I’m short yardage. 2 questions –
1 – Do you think this pattern would work, or would you recommend another infinity scarf/cowl pattern on your site for this yarn and yardage?
2 – If I attempt this pattern, what multiple of 4 would you suggest for this yardage?
Thank you so much for the help!
Kate
Hi Kate!
I’ve helped a lot of folks make a 2/3 version of this cowl that is long enough to wrap around double. You should have enough yardage for this kind of cowl. You would need to cast on 132 stitches for this one.
Thanks for your question!
Thomas
Love this! I’m a fairly new knitter, so I’m a bit confused on the bind off. Does that mean I need to bind off after round 1 in a round 2 pattern? Also, I’d like to make a regular straight scarf in this pattern, do the edges curl?
Thanks!
Hi Olivia!
You are correct about the bind-off! Also, you might want to check out some of the other comments about how to do this stitch back-and-forth.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Hi, I love the look of this cowl, and am interested in making with Madelinetosh- Chunky. I have 2 skeins, 165 yds ea, and am interested in a shorter length (2 wraps maybe?) What would you recommend for needle size and number of cast on stitches? The yarn calls for a size 9-10 ndl (for 3.5-4 st/in). If you wouldn’t mind giving a brief explanation, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you,
Heather
Hi Heather!
I can’t be sure without knowing your particular gauge on that yarn and the needles you choose. I have suggested to many folks in the shop to knit a 2/3 version out of the yarn called for by casting on 132 stitches. You would probably need a little bit more than that for the gauge you mentioned on the Tosh Chunky. I’d probably suggest knitting the Tosh Chunky on the needles they suggest, and following the cast on number as written in the pattern, and it will naturally come out smaller!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Looks like row 2 of the pattern has the knit and purl reversed. No way the design will turn out a knit row “stripe” on the reverse side, that clearly shows in the images, if the purl stitches aren’t lined up as the fourth stitch in both rounds.
Hi Debra!
The pattern is actually correct! The “Knit” column stripe on the reverse side is made with the P1 on row 2 lined up with the slip wyif on row 1.
Thanks for your question, and I hope this clarifies!
Thomas
Thank you so much for this pattern!! I loved it so much and now I knit my sister’s fluted cowl *-*! At the first I had some doubts if I work correctly but after some row I saw the fluted stitch like in your picture…even if I didn’t use the yarn suggested so it’s don’t look so soft ^-^’! Anyway thank you so much for your job and sharing and I’m sorry for my English T_T!
I was glad to see a handful of comments here that other people besides me had been knitting the pattern as shown and having it not come out right. I frogged more than once and tried again to no avail.
What I’ve come up with is that the first line of the pattern (*K1, slip 1 with yarn in front (sl1 wyif), k1, p1, repeat from * to end of round) may not be right. The picture shows a 3+1 pattern; 3 purls and a knit or 3 knits and a purl, depending on which side you’re looking at. The first pattern line, however, is not a 3+1. The K1 has yarn in back, then sl1wyif puts yarn in front, then K1 (yarn back), p1 (yarn front). So yarn is alternating back-front-back-front.
I think the first line should be “*K1, slip 1 with yarn in BACK (sl1 wyib), k1, p1, repeat from * to end of round.” That would make it 3 stitches with yarn in back + 1 stitch with yarn in front, 3+1.
I’m going to try it tonight. I love the look of this cowl, so hope it works. Fingers crossed!
Hi Lisa,
The pattern is correct. If you are looking at the pattern from the wrong side the knit columns should line up, not on the right side. But I can see your confusion because the top photo shows the wrong side! Also, keep in mind that it takes more than 6 rows of this pattern to really see what is happening.
Thanks for your question and please let us know if you have any more!
Hi, is it possible to have a french traduction for this pattern?
Thank you!
liz
Hi Liz-
I’m afraid none of us speak French well enough to translate a pattern. Sorry we can’t be of more help!
Molly
I love the cowl and I’m almost done. The super soft merino is yummy. I’m struggling with the bind off in pattern. Am I meant to follow pattern exactly, slipping stitches in bind off row just as before? Thanks!
Hello Kelly,
Yes, you’re correct! Bind off in pattern just means you are working the row as normal, but every other stitch on the right hand needle you’re passing it up and over like you normally do to bind off. Let us know if you have more questions. So happy you liked the pattern!
Alyson
I really love this pattern! if i were to knit this casting on 100 stitches with the Super Soft Merino, How many skeins would i need?
Hi Carla-
You would need about 1/2 of the yarn, so 3 skeins.
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
I love this scarf! I was wondering if you would have this pattern for crochet too?
Hi Kate-
We don’t have this exact pattern available in crochet but our Crochet Rib Cowl is kind of similar. Here is that pattern: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/09/19/whits-knits-crocheted-rib-cowl/
Thanks for getting in touch and please let us know if you have any other questions!
Molly
Hi there,
I’m casting on 196 stitches as the pattern calls for, but when I finish the first round, I’m ending at sl1 wyif some reason.
I’ve ripped off and started over twice.
After the first round, I should be ended at p1, right?
Any ideas what I’m doing wrong? I’m so lost!
Thank you
Hi B.Curtis! I’m very sorry that you’ve been having trouble! For the first round, you will work a sequence of the following 4 stitches, in this order: K1, sl1 wyif, k1, p1, and you will repeat this sequence 49 times (for a total of 196 stitches) until the end of round. You’re absolutely right, the round ends with a p1. My only thought is that you may be working a different sequence than these 4 stitches and that this may be throwing your count off? If you count your stitches as increments of 4 for this first round, this might help you be able to see where you’re going astray. I hope this helps and please let us know if you have any further questions!
Kristy
I just realized I have been slipping as if to knit, and I just read above that we should be slipping as if to purl. I am only 4 rows in, if I start slipping as if to purl would it change the pattern look too much. Or should I just start over.
Hello Erin!
Can you tell a visible difference in your cowl? If not, I wouldn’t worry about it too much. The difference will orient the stitches in a different direction and affect the final texture slightly, but not significantly. I would keep going if I were you!
Best of luck finishing out the project! -Alyson
Hi! I’m knitting this up right now! I LOVE the 2nd rows. It’s so relaxing, my own form of mediation. I’d love to post a pic when I’m finished. Thank you! This is a great pattern
Hello Michelle!
We’re so happy you’re enjoying this design! We love it too! Have fun stitching it up! -Alyson
i have loved this pattern from the day it appeared. I have just been given yarn that appears to be the same thickness. What would help me is if you could tell me the weight if each of you skeins. Also I Am well under Five feet tall and wonder if the two times around the neck cowl looks just as soft and Drapey as your beautiful white one in the picture.
Hello Natalie!
We’re so glad you love this pattern as much as we do! Each skein of Super Soft Merino weighs 100 grams (3.5 ounces). This cowl is definitely able to wrap around twice and it is quite over sized! Some customers have preferred to make a version with only 5 skeins instead of 6 to down size it slightly. I hope this helps! Best of luck! -Alyson
Hello!
I’ve never worked with circular needles before. How long should my needle be??
Thanks!
Allison
Hello Allison!
For a cowl of this size, you should definitely use a cable that is at least 32″ long, but no more than 40″ long. That way the stitches will flow along the cord easily and not be too crowded or too spaced out. Best of luck! -Alyson
Thank you Alyson!
I bought a 31 1/2 ” – long needle so that’s perfect! I can now start full of confidence 🙂
Dear Alyson,
I have one more question. Should I swatch for this using this tutorial (https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2012/03/16/swatching-for-circular-gauge/) or should I just swatch by knitting in the round as I would usually? Help!
Thanks,
Allison (a desperate knitter)
Hello again!
Since the pattern is in the round, I would definitely recommend doing the swatch in the round so that your stitches are being created in the same way they will be in the actual project. When you swatch by knitting in the roudn, so you make a really small tube? Either way, make sure to do a swatch that is only created without ever turning the work to the wrong side. I hope that helps!
Thanks for asking and best of luck!
-Alyson
The pattern does not say to block the garment when complete. Is this recommended? Has anyone blocked it and what was the outcome? Thanks.
Hello Jane!
Blocking isn’t a necessary step, but it can definitely help open up a stitch pattern and put an item into shape! If you used the Super Soft Merino yarn, I wouldn’t agitate the yarn or worry about blocking since its already so plush and its prone to pilling. I wouldn’t ever completely submerge the item, as it may cause it to stretch more than you want!
Best of luck! -Alyson
I have a general question: if I knit stockinette stitch with a larger needle than called for, will it stop the curling edges? Thx, you always have such great advice…a real “purl” of wisdom..
Hello Vicky!
Stockinette stitch will always tend to curl since all of the bulk of the stitches are oriented to only one side of the work. Knitting this stitch pattern more loosely will definitely help the curling, but not eliminate it completely. The best way to counteract the curl is to add a border of some sort.
What are you making? Let us know if we can be of any more help! Thanks! -Alyson
I absolutely love this cowl and was wondering if it would be suitable knitted with a dk or light worsted weight of yarn, without sacrificing the amazing look of the pattern.
The heavier weight of yarns are too much fabric around the neck area for me and the lighter yarns are asthectically more pleasing.
I would like to be able to wrap the cowl at least two times.
Thank you!
Hello April!
You could definitely adjust the pattern! I would do a gauge swatch with the size yarn that you would like to use and then multiply the number of stitches per inch you get by 60 stitches to get the same size as the sample we made. Make sure its a multiple of 4 for the stitch pattern! Best of luck and let us know if you need any more tips! Thanks! -Alyson
I have some Mulberry Merino yarn at home, I don’t know much about yarn because I’ve just kind of started learning how to knit, but would I be able to do this project with Mulberry Merino instead of the Super Soft Merino?
Thanks 🙂
Julia
Hello Juila!
I wouldn’t recommend using the Mulberry Merino for this particular pattern since the thickness of that yarn differs so greatly from the Super Soft Merino. Trying to substitute this yarn into the pattern would necessitate lots of sizing adjustments! I would recommend sticking with the Super Soft Merino for this cowl and saving your Mulberry Merino for something else down the line! Thanks for asking! -Alyson
I started this project when it was first published (2 years ago? More?) for a gift for my daughter. I had s difficulty with the pattern and abandoned it. I just came across it again and I was able to complete it……..except I ran out of yarn when it measured 7.5″. I have bound off and it is done. But I’m not sure if it will look of to have it so narrow. I have no idea what the yarn is, except that it is a bulky weight. I think if my daughter wraps it 3x it might be ok. But it certainly cannot be worn long and folded back. Any suggestions?
Thank you!
Hi, Debbie!
Thank you so much for writing in! I am sorry for the delayed response! I am very glad to hear that you were able to complete it! Sometimes a break from the project can be very helpful! I think it’s okay that your cowl isn’t as wide as the pattern called for. It’s a beautiful stitch and I think that you’re right – if your daughter wraps it a few times it will look lovely.
If you have further questions please let us know. Again, thank you for your question.
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Hello,
As many readers this pattern is driving me crazy. The sl1 wyif in R1 is creating an overlapping stitch right? What do I do do with this st in R2? Should I knit it as a signle stitch (meaning adding the number of stitch) or should I knit it together with the stitch that it’s overlapping? Or am I totally wrong in my understanding of the pattern?
Thank you for your help.
Hi Noro,
I’m sorry to hear that you are having difficulties! On row 1, when you slip 1 stitch with the yarn in front, it will create a bar in front of the slipped stitch. In row 2, you will purl the slipped stitch while leaving the bar, created by slipping the stitch on the previous row, alone. This creates the lovely texture that makes this cowl so appealing! The number of stitches will not change from row to row.
I hope that this clears things up!
Happy knitting!
-Cassy
Would this pattern work with Lion brand Wool Ease Quick and Thick yarn?
Hello, Cheryl!
Thank you very much for writing in! Sorry about the delayed response! Lion Brand’s Quick and Thick yarn will work as a substitute to our Super Soft Merino, just make sure you use the US size 17 needle that the pattern calls for. If you have further questions, please let us know!
Best,
Kumeko
I love this pattern and would like to knit it with a yarn I already have in my stash. I have 600 yards of the yarn and in stockinette stitch I need 4-5 stitches per inch. I have already calculated that in order to get 60 inches around, I need to cast on about 250 stitches. But how do I calculate if I have enough yarn? Can you help me? If it is not enough yarn to achieve 15 inch width and 60 inches around, I’d rather switch to a shorter cowl with e.g. 50 inches around than having just e.g. 10 inches width.
Hi Annegret,
Thank you for writing in and my apologies for the greatly delayed response. Sadly there is no tried and true formula for how much yarn you will need for any given project. For this project, we used roughly 522 yards of our Super Soft Merino. Given that you have 600 yards, you may well have enough to achieve a 60 inch around, 12-14 inch high cowl but I cannot be certain. To be safe, you may want to make a slightly less wide cowl to ensure the 15 inch height.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Hi there! If I wanted to make this for a toddler, what would I need to do? Or do you recommend a different pattern? I’d like to use the super soft Merino however. Thanks in advance 🙂
Hello, Lisa!
Thank you for writing in! Sorry for the delayed response! To make a toddlers sized cowl (about 5 or 6-inches by 23-inches) I recommend casting on 72 stitches. You can follow the pattern as it is written. The only difference would be that you would stop sooner, maybe at 5 or 6-inches instead of 15-inches. Please let us know if you have further questions!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
Hello! I’m halfway through knitting this and I just realized I don’t know what binding off in the pattern means. I know a basic knitting bind off where you knit 2 and slip the first over the second and continue, is that what you mean?
Hi, Liz!
Thank you for writing in! Bind off in pattern just means you are working the row as it is written. For the knit stitches you’ll bind off as you described and for the purl stitches you’ll bind off as if to purl and for every other stitch on the right hand needle you’re passing it up and over like you normally do to bind off. If you have further questions please let us know!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I would like to know the best method for joining balls of yarn for this cowl. I am using the Super Soft Merino.
Thanks!
Hi Kay,
Thanks for writing us. The best way to start knitting a new ball of yarn is simply to start knitting it! I like to start on a knit stitch. After inserting the right needle as if to knit the next stitch, I drape the yarn over the right needle with the tail going toward the right and pull the new yarn through. Be sure to leave a 4″ tail for weaving. For the next few rows you will have to gently tug on the tail to ensure tension is even. You can also try the wet splice.
Best,
Adam
I loved that Pattern and your Team is the Best sharing nices
Projects to Us. Thanks.
Podría encontrar las instrucciones de esta bufanda en español ? Gracias
Hello Gloria,
Thank you for writing us! We do not have the capability at the moment to translate our patterns. Maybe Google Translate will be able to read knitting patterns though!
Best,
Adam
Me gustaría, entonces, saber el nombre de la puntada. Mil gracias.
olá estou com dificuldade com a tradução do texto, amei o ponto e gostaria de aprende-lo, será que você sabe me dizer se encontro algum vídeo explicando?
Hi Angelica,
Thanks for writing us! We do not have a translation or a video of this in Portuguese. I suggest using Google Translate to get you though most of the pattern. Best of luck!
-Adam
The scarf is how many centimeters long and how many centimeters wide?
Hi Ivone,
Thanks for writing in! This cowl is 15 inches high and 60 inches around. I did a little conversion and this comes out to roughly 38 cm high and 152 cm around.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
Hello! To start, thank you for this lovely pattern. I think it will make a fabulous present for my sister. 🙂
I wanted to ask if you suggest any particular cast on method? I usually use the long tail cast on, but am having nightmares about how much yarn that will use for 196 st in Bulky. And since the pattern calls to bind off in pattern, I would like to be able to match the edges.
Thanks!
Hi Colleen,
Thanks for writing in! For this lovely cowl we used a long tail cast on. It is quite forgiving when trying to match the cast-off, generally looking more like the pattern than a flat cast-on. As for starting with a long enough tail, a trick I like is to wrap your yarn around the needle 10 times and then pull it off. This would be the tail that you would need for 10 stitches. You can then use this to estimate how much of a tail that you will need. I always add an extra 10 stitch length just to be sure.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
Thank you so much, Cassy, for your quick reply! Now I can cast on with confidence.
Please give me this pattern in french.
Thank You
Hi Claire,
Thank you for writing in! At this time our patterns and support are only available in English.
Best,
Cassy
Hi! Thanks so much for this beautiful pattern! I have finally finished knitting it after four tries and I’m ready to bind off. I read through the comments and I see written instructions but is there a video you can direct me to so that I can see how to bind off? Thanks very much!
Hi Mariam,
Thanks for writing in and congratulations on finishing this lovely cowl! For this project, we recommend binding off in pattern using a standard pass over bind off. That is to say you will purl the purls and knit the knits and then pass the prior stitch over the just completed stitch.
I hope that this helps and happy knitting!
Cassy
Thanks very much for the reply Cassy! What about the stitches I slipped? do I knit or purl them? I ended the cowl on row 1 like the instructions say. So, does that mean I am binding off following row 2? If so, that’s where I’m getting confused because there are two slipped stitches in each four. If I am supposed to bind off following row 1, there is still a slipped stitch which I’m not sure how to bind off. Thanks for your help!
Hi Mariam,
Thanks for the question! For binding off, you will work as if you are working row 2. You will slip the stitches that you would slip for this row but you will also bind them off. For example, the first two stitches will be Sl1 wyif, p1. You will then take your left needle and insert it into the bottom stitch on your right needle and bring the bottom stitch up over the top stitch and off the right needle.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
How do you think this cowl would look in the lucky magpie? I made it in a solid and it’s beautiful. A coworker asked me to make her a scarf/cowl with this color. I’m concerned the beauty of the stitch won’t show with the multi color. Can you suggest a pattern with this yarn?
Hi Carol,
Thanks for the question but I am not familiar with lucky magpie. If you send a picture to store@purlsoho with your question you will get a better answer! Thanks!
-Adam
Hi,
I love this and wanted to try it with some nice soft wool i have but i only have two skeins… so I was wondering how I could adapt the pattern easily… making it less wide and less long but still being able to double it around my neck? Also when it says slip (yarn in front or back) does it mean purl slip or knit slip direction? Thank you 🙂
Hi Kate,
Thanks for the nice comment! This pattern is easily adaptable because the stitch pattern is worked in the round on any multiple of four stitches. On a 24″ circular needle, fill up the needle with stitches and make sure you’ve cast on a multiple of four. Join and work the pattern until you’ve reached your desired height. For this pattern, you will always slip purl-wise. Yarn in back/front just describes the orientation of your yarn when you slip. Let me know how it goes!
-Adam
I wish that the pattern said clearly that the reverse side is what is showing in the photos. Or you could rewrite it so that the slips are on the back. Or you could include a small chart.
Otherwise lovely pattern. I am making a square of it for a sampler vest.
Hi there,
Thanks for writing in. The reverse side always hows on a cowl because you’ll always see the wrong side when wrapped around the neck. Sorry for the confusion.
-Adam
I think the pattern on both the right and wrong side of the cowl are very pretty and this is what makes the pattern great for me! This is my WIP right now. Love it!
Hi there,
Would it be fairly simple to adapt this fluted pattern to a flat piece, say a blanket? Thanks in advance!
Zoë
Hi Zoe,
Thanks for writing us! Unfortunately we can’t convert a pattern in the round to a flat pattern over the comments section, but I can give you some guidance. I’d try a swatch where you do row 1 as round 1 and then for row 2 you will reverse all stitches (knits become purls, s1wyif becomes s1wyib, etc.). Hope this helps!
-Adam
Hello,
Just wandering around what weight the yarn you use is. Unfortunately, I don’t have the budget for that lovely stuff, so am looking for a cheeper alternative. In the description it says super bulky. Does that mean 6? Sorry, I am new to all this knitting jargon! Thank you and God bless!
Hi Grace,
Thanks for writing in! Our Super Soft Merino is roughly a Super Bulky yarn with a gauge of 2.75 – 3.25 stitches per inch. The Craft Yarn Council would consider this a 6!
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Thank you so much!
I am nearly done making this scarf and can’t wait to wear it. But being a beginner, I don’t know how to weave in the ends for this pattern. What’s the best approach?
Hello Jo,
Thank you for reaching out! How I approach weaving in my ends, in the most basic terms, is I follow my stitches. There are many ways to approach weaving in your ends, but for an in-depth overview of some of our preferred ways of weaving in our ends, check out our Tutorial –
I hope this clears things up and let us know how it goes.
Happy knitting!
-Marilla
Will a 196 stitch cast on with this super bulky yarn really fit on a 32” cable?
Hi Olga,
Thanks for writing in! We were able to use a 32 inch cable for this lovely cowl but you can certainly use a 40 inch cable if you prefer a little bit of extra room to work!
Best,
Cassy
The pattern calls for a #19 needle and the yarn description an 11 needle. Is this correct and why such a big jump?
Hi Monica,
Thanks for writing in! This is correct! The stitch pattern here is quite dense so in order to get a pleasing fabric with a nice drape, we went up several needle sizes.
I hope that this helps!
Cassy
Hello. I am working on this cowl… well, I have been for some time. I am coming close to the end. I was wondering if you blocked the cowl once it was completed?
Thank you
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for writing in! It is always a good idea to block your knits when they are finished – blocking really helps even out any uneven stitches and gives hand knits a more polished, finished look. I would not block this stitch aggressively, but a quick steam or soak in the sink followed by drying flat will still make a big difference.
I hope that helps!
Julianna
Hi! I’m struggling a bit with the pattern as my cowl looks nothing like the one on the photos. I was wondering if the second row should have slip with yarn in BACK not in front? Otherwise this knit stitch that you see on the right side disappears behind the “yarn in front”. Thank you!
Julia
Hello Julia,
Thank you for reaching out! On row 1, when you slip 1 stitch with the yarn in front, it will create a bar in front of the slipped stitch. In row 2, you will purl the slipped stitch while leaving the bar, created by slipping the stitch on the previous row, alone. How is your cowl turning out? What, specifically, is different about your cowl verses ours?
I hope I can help!
Warmly,
Marilla
Hi,
I just finished the cowl and it is beautiful but it came out quite a bit too long. is there a way (thru blocking?) to make it shorter?
thank you,
Maggie
Hello Maggie,
Thank you for reaching out! Though you can make small adjustments with blocking, you will not be able to make the cowl much shorter. You could always go back into your project and cast off sooner.
I hope this is helpful and let us know if you have any further questions.
Good Luck!
-Marilla
Hi Maggie,
I would like to knit this pattern in Season Alpaca. What size needles would you recommend and how many stitches should I cast on?
Christina
Hi Christina!
Thank you for your question! Season Alpaca is a much thinner weight yarn than Super Soft Merino, so the best way to figure out your cast on for this project would be to knit a gauge swatch in pattern and measure how many stitches you are getting per inch. Then, with that number in mind, you can calculate how many stitches you would need for 60″ around! Season Alpaca works well on a size US 3-5 needle, so I would start with one of those sizes for your gauge swatch.
I hope this helps!
All the best,
Margaret
Hi Margaret,
Thank you for your reply. Should I go up a needle size to achieve the same result. The pattern uses a bigger size than recommended for the wool. I’m a bit confused.
Christina
You are very welcome, Christina! This cowl uses a larger needle size than recommended for Super Soft Merino since the Fluted Fabric Stitch makes a very dense fabric. In order for the cowl to have some drape to it, we used a larger needle size to create some more air between the stitches, making for a cozy but flowing cowl!
I hope this helps clarify the needle size!
All the best,
Margaret