This double-thickness cowl and fingerless mitts are inspired by the colors of the Eastern American Bluebird.

Starting with a crochet provisional cast on, the cowl is worked bottom to top, and then the edges are joined and finished with Kitchener Stitch. Links are included in the pattern for both the crochet provisional cast on and Kitchener Stitch. The pattern for the stranded motif is presented only as a chart.

The cowl can easily be made larger. To increase the circumference, add stitches in multiples of 12. To make the cowl longer, increase the depth of each the stripes in the plain sections. Knit By Numbers is a light fingering weight yarn. Using a heavier yarn will also result in a larger cowl and mitts. Be sure to use a larger needle if using a heavier yarn.

You will need 1 skein each of a blue, orange, and off-white yarn if you wish to emulate a bluebird’s colors. Or choose whatever colors please you! Knit By Number is made from 100% Pure Falklands Merino Wool. It is supremely soft and luxurious and comes in a wide array of colors. See www.jarbon.com for all of their beautiful yarns.