Smash Hit Cowl (Worsted) by Read Street Knitting

Smash Hit Cowl (Worsted)

Knitting
November 2025
Worsted (9 wpi) ?
24 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches
in stockinette (or colorwork, if yours differs significantly)
US 5 - 3.75 mm
300 - 600 yards (274 - 549 m)
Twisted, Straight, or Infinity
English
This pattern is available for $6.00 USD buy it now

The worsted version is here!

Inspired by Claes Oldenberg’s larger-than-life shuttlecock sculptures at the Nelson-Atkins Museum, this cowl is a fun knit and great conversation starter. It is knit length-wise in a tube, with a single color work chart repeating throughout. The piece is then twisted and the two ends are joined with a Kitchener Stitch, creating a seamless and modern look. Customize yours by making it into a standard cowl or an infinity scarf (instructions included).

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS:

Twisted cowl: 6.5” tall by 27” circumference
Standard cowl: 6.5” tall by 22.5” circumference
Infinity scarf: 6.5” tall by 54” circumference (orpreferred size)

MATERIALS:

Yarn: Yarn for twisted (standard, infinity) versions:
Main color (blue) = appx. 215 (180, 230) yards.
Birdie color (white) = appx. 130 (110, 260) yards.
Contrast (orange) = appx. 30 (25, 50) yards.

Worsted weight yarns may vary, use a yarn that meets your intended gauge.

Needles:
US Size 5 (3.75 mm) needles, or size needed to meet gauge. I recommend a 12” cord or double pointed needles, whichever is most comfortable for you. You’ll need another set of circular needles for joining the two ends, but those may be any length.

Notions: 3 stitch markers, scrap yarn, tapestry needle, small crochet hook for provisional cast on (optional)

GAUGE:
24 stitches x 28 rows = appx. 4” x 4” in stockinette (or stranded, if yours is significantly different)