Cochal is a Scottish Gaelic word for hood, and this simple to knit accessory can easily be pulled up, hood-like, to keep the cold off your neck and ears when you are out in the hills. Its straightforward design and dimensions are loosely based on the (usually synthetic) ‘buffs’ often used by hikers, runners, and other outdoor folk. We prefer our cochals to be made from high-performance Scottish wool, like Buachaille! Working with a larger needle means the yarn is able to drape and stretch, but still produces a wonderfully cosy fabric. The striking slipped-stitch pattern is very simple, and can be worked by any beginner knitter.

Yarn
Buachaille (100% Scottish Wool; 110m / 120 yds per 50g skein)
MC: Squall 1 x 50g skein
CC1: Yaffle 1 x 50g skein
CC2 (optional): Highland Coo - small quantity
Samples used approximately 40g / 88m / 96yds of MC, 42g / 92m / 101yds of CC1, and 3g / 7m / 8yds of CC2.

Size
Length: 38cm / 15in
Circumference: 55cm / 21½in
Cochal can be made shorter or longer as required.

Needles and notions
40cm / 16in gauge-size circular needles
40cm / 16in below-gauge-size circular needles (these are 1 size smaller than the needles you require to get the correct gauge)
Stitch marker
Tapestry needle