As many of us know firsthand, wind is a powerful force. It can cause great destruction in a matter of minutes. But wind can also bring forth more gradual, graceful changes in nature. I was inspired by windswept trees with their branches gently arching backwards as if they are allowing the wind—and time—to pass. These trees bear the brunt of each blast yet continue to hold tight and thrive. We just might learn a thing or two from them.

Windswept Forest is a cowl knit in the round using a simple lace pattern; both charted and written instructions are provided. The yarnovers and decreases combine to evoke gnarly branches on purled trunks. A bonus is that this stitch pattern, while not truly reversible, looks great on the wrong side; strong trunks stand amidst countless tangled branches. The alternating columns of purl and knitted lace act as ribbing that prevents rolling, so there is no need for a top or bottom border. If joining the first round is tricky for you, I have a nifty trick for resisting the twist.

Finished measurements: 29.75 in. (75.5 cm) in circumference;
5 in. (12.5 cm) tall

Sample shown in Lichen used approximately 34 g, or 150 yd. (137 m).

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