Subtle, stylish, modern and elegant, Refraction is a cowl that is bound to become a wardrobe staple. With texturing that adds interest without overpowering or clashing with other patterns, Refraction can easily be dressed up or down. The understated style ensures that the cowl is a flexible wardrobe piece, adding warmth and an extra piece of visual interest to a wide range of outfits. Refraction offers choices to suit your taste – there is a long version that allows the cowl to be double-wrapped or a short version that will sit on the chest, and the height of the cowl can be easily adjusted. The cowl samples were worked in a woollenspun yarn, which produced a light cowl with a great spring to it that helps retain and showcase the textured nature of the pattern. The textured lattice pattern is created by using a technique called twist stitches, which makes this a speedier knit. The pattern is accompanied by a video tutorial, which explains all the techniques required for the pattern – designed to support knitters with everything from the cast on to the twist stitches. Knit in the round, Refraction does not require grafting and ensures a smooth and seamless textured pattern around the entire cowl.

First time trying twist stitches?
Most of Refraction’s test knitters had never used this technique before trying this pattern. These test knitters commented that they were surprisingly easy and much quicker than working traditional cables, though it did take a couple of rounds to get the hang of these stitches. Refraction is suitable for intermediate knitters as well as adventurous beginners. The pattern comes with a video tutorial which demonstrates all the special techniques needed for this project including the cast on used for the sample, one way to join to work in the round, and how to work the twist stitches in the pattern.

Gauge is not crucial for this project, though it will change the circumference of the cowl and yarn usage. This pattern is easily adjustable for desired height.

Needles & notions
4mm circular needles (recommended 80cm for small size and 150cm for large size) or size required to get gauge
Yarn needle
stitch marker

Yarn usage
Fingering Weight / 4-ply
Small size
100g/350-360m (sample shown used 82g)
Sample shown in Happy-Go-Knitty Aroha 4ply (90% merino cross, 10% coloured Polwarth) woollenspun in Clouds Of Thunder
Large size
180g / 650m (sample shown used 163g)
Sample shown in Happy-Go-Knitty Aroha 4ply (90% merino cross, 10% coloured Polwarth) woollenspun in Green Olives