This is a small but precious project for cable lovers and chart enthusiasts. The cable design resembles the intertwined patterns found in the beautiful ancient stone work of the Celts.

The construction of this cowl begins with a graphic central motif, knitted flat. The winding cabled side panels are picked up from the edges of the central motif and worked separately in flat knitting, before being joined at the back. Finally, ribbing is added to the top and the bottom. The tapered shape is achieved by picking up fewer stitches along the top edge.

It calls for 100 g of sport weight yarn. The yardage and size may vary depending on which fiber type you use, as well as if you substitute with DK weight yarn. Fingering weight yarn is definitely too thin for this project.

The samples were knit in Cascade 220 sport 100% Peruvian Highland Wool on a 24“ / 60 cm circular needle in size US 4 / 3.5 mm and used up approximately 82 g / 269 yrds.

The pattern has partly written and partly charted instructions.

The cable patterns are given in form of charts only.

The cables and construction are on a medium difficulty level. It includes:

1. Flat knitting
2. Knitting in the round
3. Picking up stitches
4. 3-needle bind-off

You are free to choose a different method for seaming.

This cowl is an ideal project for someone wanting to try or practice those skills before embarking on a larger project

Note: You can adjust the circumference of the cowl by leaving out or adding a pattern repeat in the side panels, like some of my testers have done. Be aware that this alters the yardage requirements.

Credits: A big thank you to Mary-Ann Hallesilver for encouragement and advice, my test knitters, and Christina for modeling with me!

This pattern has been tech-edited.

This design is also available on a larger scale in a hoodie here.

Pattern support at Solitudeknits@lunqual.de or via PM here on Ravelry.