Balsam Range

This versatile cowl lets you have your lace and keep warm, too. The lace itself sketches mountain peaks, ranging into the distance, while the heavy fingering weight yarn provides substance. The cowl is long enough to wear doubled, close to your neck, to keep you cozy in chill mountain air. As the day warms, wear it in a single, elegant loop. The nape of your neck will thank you as the sun sets!

The cowl is worked flat, then the ends are connected with your choice of either the Kitchener stitch or a three-needle BO. A simple I-cord edge is worked as you knit along, which is explained further in the pattern. Written and charted lace stitch instructions are provided.

The Plott Balsam and Great Balsam Mountain ranges make up part of the southern tip of the Appalachian Mountains in western North Carolina. These are the mountains where I grew up, supported by hard working, handcrafting people and surrounded by exquisite natural beauty. The Balsam Range cowl is just a small way I can share my experiences with you. Enjoy!

Yarn used: Malabrigo Finito (heavy fingering weight; 100% super fine Merino wool; 200 yards / 185 meters per 50 gram skein); 2 skeins, approx. 400 yds/ 370 m total). Sample uses colorway “196 Mares.”

Yarn suggestions: If substituting yarns, look for a medium to heavy fingering weight that will be warm and cozy despite the lace pattern. A soft, plump, round, and multi-plied yarn can accomplish this. A light sport weight yarn would also work.

Needle size: US size 6 / 4 mm needles (or size required to get gauge)

Notions: scrap yarn for provisional CO, extra knitting needle for BO, tapestry needle

Gauge in lace stitch pattern (after blocking): 24 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm
Row gauge is important to create a finished cowl long enough to double around your neck! You may want to add an extra pattern repeat or two if your gauge is different.

Final measurements: 11 inches (28 cm) wide, 48 inches (122 cm) circumference

Techniques used: Provisional CO, attached I-cord edging, your choice of Kitchener stitch or three-needle BO