This design combines my favorite plaited cable with a simple diagonal lace. The pattern is written for 2 different sizes but includes suggestions for customizing it to suit your personal preferences. The alpaca yarn creates a warm accessory without a lot of bulk. The short version uses 250 yards and the long version (shown wrapped twice around the model’s neck) uses 500 yards.

This cowl can also be worn around the shoulders to ward off the chill in the air.

For those of you you don’t like to purl, the long version is made with simple stickinette stitch rolled edges so no purling is required.

If you don’t mind purl stitches, the short version has a moss stitch edge. Or, use your favorite edge treatment! (Sorry it doesn’t show up well in the black. I should have used a different color!)

Stitches used are k2tog, ssk, yo, c4f, and c4b.
Stitch markers come in handy but are not required other than one to mark the beginning of the round.
A cable needle is also optional.

Special thanks to all of my friends at True Blewe Yarns And More for all of their help and encouragement!