Oh, those colorful Wollmeise skeins that can be real divas when it comes to finding the right pattern! How about this: A soft, stretchy cape-cowl-hybrid that extends right below your shoulders and replaces a scarf beneath your jacket or cardigan. I love that it does not leave any gaps at the neck where the cold wind can sneak in, as scarves usually do. Vertical garter stitch (no purling required!) really emphasizes the beautiful color variations, short rows prevent funny pooling and guarantee a comfy shoulder-hugging fit. You can button it up for extra warmth or leave the collar open for a more relaxed look. And the best thing about it: The measurements are calculated such that it will use up exactly one skein of Wollmeise, so you don’t waste any of your precious.

I named this pattern after italian jazz- and chanson singer Caterina Valente who was a huge success in the 1950s in Germany. And also a diva, in the best sense of the word.