The Serene Seas Cowl is exclusively available individually or in eBook format with two other awesome West Coast Collaboration designers! Support West Coast dyers and designers and get your copy today!

This cowl pattern was inspired by a trip across the Pacific Ocean and the stillness of the water in the middle of the sea. On calm ocean days, the sunlight dips into the water, bending at the surface, sun rays converging towards one another infinitely. The seven linear rays represent the seven seas and the way light moves in calm water.

The cowl was designed with all genders in mind and is sleek, modern, and finished. It is knit bottom-up in the round with a facing-style border that is folded down and mattress-stitched to create a continuous look when the top of the cowl gapes open and to reinforce the edges and help it stand up against the body. The linear ray effect is achieved through a combination of slip stitches and unique cabling techniques. The cabling on the inside of the cowl is almost invisible, creating a smooth, tailored look.

Gauge is provided, but not crucial to this project. A stiffer fabric will highlight the linear cabling more clearly, however.

Materials needed:

• 210-260 yards of Aran weight superfine Merino wool yarn, ideally Seismic Butter Aran. Acrylic and acrylic blends are not recommended for this project.
• Size US 8 (5mm) 16-inch (40 cm) circular knitting needle
• Tapestry needle
• One BOR marker
• OPTIONAL: Seven locking stitch markers