Hortense: from the French given name, meaning “gardener”

This snuggly cowl uses basic brioche increases and decreases to achieve a graphic and textured cowl that looks great from both sides.
The main-color side features a leafy motif, while the background-color side features swirls reminiscent of tracks in the sand.

An optional drawstring adds function to beauty for a perfect fuss-free accessory. Omit the drawstring for a truly reversible piece.

Different sets of charts featuring dark or light color as the dominant color give you ultimate control over your project. Two different yarn pairings are suggested for emphasizing characteristic drape or body.

To size up, worsted weight yarn and needles one or two sizes larger can be used, or an extra pattern repeat can be easily added. Yardage requirements may vary with modifications.

Written and charted instructions are included throughout; swatch is worked flat for a handy reference.

Techniques used (not explained)

• Crocheted provisional cast on (or your preferred method of provisional cast on)
• Two-color brioche knitting in the round
• i-cord

Techniques explained

• Buttonhole stitch (linked video)
• Graft (linked video)