I don’t usually knit for friends on commission, but when a co- worker described her vision of this giant, squishy, white cowl, I caved. She’s a California native learning to survive midwestern US winters, and she could use a ginormous, hand-knit face shield in her arsenal.

The cowl is worked flat and sewn together at the end. Reversible braided cables and mistake stitch rib combine to look sophisticated, but in the warmest, smooshiest way possible. It’s worked on large needles with the yarn held double, which means it’s a great way to knit up an entire skein of Cascade Eco Wool.

Finished measurements:
Circumference: 30.5 in/77.5 cm.
Height: 10 in/25.4 cm.

Gauge:
12 sts/17 rows = 4 in/10 cm in mistake st rib with yarn held double, loosely blocked.
11 sts/15.5 rows = 4 in/10 cm in stockinette with yarn held single, loosely blocked.

Yarn:
Cascade Eco Wool or Eco+ (100% wool; 478 yd/437 m per 250 g) - 1 skein. Sample is in Eco Wool color 8010.

Notions:
Stitch markers, cable needle, tapestry needle.

Skills needed: Cast-on, knit, purl, slip, cable (4/4 RC and LC), bind-off, duplicate stitch (for seaming).