High-contrast colors and an easy slip-stitch pattern combine to make squishy, dimensional texture in the Neeley Cowl. The bandana shape begins flat and is later joined in the round, after which contrast i-cord trims create polished edges. In Meadow DK from Backyard Fiberworks, the cowl is warm and decadently soft.

Both samples use the same “neutral” (Deep Creek), but the final effect varies based on whether it or the “pop” shade is used as the Main Color.

This pattern contains both fully charted and written instructions.

Recommended Yarn:
Backyard Fiberworks Meadow DK — 80% merino / 10% cashmere / 10% nylon — 231 yds (211 m) to 100 g per skein. Cowl uses one skein each of two colors with a total yardage of approx. 350 yds.

Sample #1 (orange/blue): Bittersweet (MC) and Deep Creek (CC)

Sample #2 (blue/yellow): Deep Creek (MC) and Willow (CC)

Yardage: MC (approx. full skein) — 231 yds (211 m) / CC (approx. half-skein) — 120 yds (110 m)

Sizing:
22” (56 cm) around neck opening and 39” (99 cm) around base, 19” (48.5 cm) deep at center. Sample #2 has 12 extra rounds and is 41” (104 cm) around base, 20.25” (51.5 cm) deep at center.

Blocked Gauges:
23 sts and 34 rows to 4” (10 cm) in pattern, worked flat, or 23 sts and 36 rnds to 4” (10 cm) in pattern, worked in the round.

PLEASE NOTE: I knit the samples with a US 6 (4 mm) needle for the body and a US 5 (3.75 mm) for the i-cord, but I knit fairly tightly. To meet given dimensions and to ensure enough MC yarn, use needle size that gives gauge. Changes in gauge will affect finished size, look of motifs, and amount of yarn used.

Needles:
US 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle in 24” (60 cm) length for body, plus US 4 (3.5 mm) needle or DPN for i-cord.

Other Materials:
Three stitch markers, tapestry needle.

Many thanks to Alice of Backyard Fiberworks for her support! This pattern was professionally tech edited by Lisa Beth Houchins (Meanest Mommy Knits).