The Feather and fan stitch pattern, that is also known by the names of Old Shale and Peacock feathers, is a pattern that has been knitted for centuries, so the stitch pattern itself is not my own. What is my own, (or actually my great grandmothers, she is the one who taught me how to knit this cowl as a kid,) is the pattern of this cowl: how many stitches to cast on, how many rows to knit, so basically how to turn the stitch pattern into a nice cowl.

This stitch pattern looks a lot more difficult than it is. Whether you’re a beginner knitter or a very experienced one, this pattern is fun! The pattern is very easy to remember, so if you’re experienced enough, you can easily knit this while watching tv. If you’re a beginner, this is a great way to practice your ‘yarn overs’ and ‘knit 2 together’s’ and creating a beautiful cowl that will impress people at the same time!

The cowl is knitted in the round. You could off course use double pointed needles, but I prefer circulars for this project because of the amount of stitches on the needles and because it’s lace and you really don’t want those ‘seems’ that can arise between the needles when you knit with double points.

The pattern is easily adjustable to your own preferences. I just knitted until I had the full colour repeat once and that happened to be the perfect length for the cowl for me. I’ve also written down some instructions in case you want a shorter or longer or wider or smaller cowl.

I used Kauni which is 100% wool, but any brand of fingering weight/sock yarn will be great. From hand spun to a single colour.

You need about 70 grams/2.5 ounces or 280 meter/306 yards of yarn.

The cowl is about 40cm/15.7 inches long and about 35cm/13.8 inches in diameter, after blocking.

Gauge isn’t very important.

Materials:
• 70 grams/2.5 OZ of Kauni Effectgarn
• One pair of circular needles size 5mm/US8
• One stitch marker to mark beginning of round
• Tapestry needle to weave in the ends when finished
• Crochet hook for bind off (optional)