The Art Lesson Cowl is an experiment in colors using self-striping yarn. Select yarn with boldly contrasting colors to create a piece of abstract art, or more subtle changes for an Impressionist piece. Either way, short rows in the body bend the colors into interesting shapes.

Once you’ve chosen your artistic style, you may also choose an edging. You can use the ribbed edging for a more tailored cowl, suitable for both men and women. Or pick the ruffled edging, which gives a more ethereal finish to the piece.

The body of the cowl is worked flat with short rows to bend the colors in the yarn. The final row is grafted to the cast on edge to form the cowl. Stitches are picked up around the sides and the edging is knitted on.

Skill Level: intermediate - requires grafting (kitchener stitch), provisional cast on, picking up stitches along the edges, short rows with wrap and turn

Yarn Requirements:
Choose any fingering weight yarn that is either self-striping or has long runs of colors.

The ruffled edging version requires 450-500 yards (411-457 m).
The ribbed edging version requires 350-400 yards (320-366 m).

Gauge is not critical, but will affect the drape of the fabric and the amount of yarn required. Choose a needle that gives you a solid fabric, but not a dense one.

Tech edited by Eleanor Dixon.

Please visit the LaurieBea Knitting Circle group on Ravelry for information, tips, advice and chat.