This is a simple stashbuster cowl made from alternating stripes of any two yarns (ideally somewhere from DK to bulky weight). You can pair two yarns of a similar weight and analogous colors for a more uniform fabric, or combine wildly different yarns in unexpected ways. For added visual interest, the alternating color stripes are tilted on a diagonal. Pattern includes instructions and diagrams to keep the edges stretchy but not too loose.

The pattern is written to make a snugly-fitting cowl that can be pulled up over the nose and mouth (a “gaiter”), but it is easily adaptable for different sizes and fits using your measurements and desired ease.

You’ll need approximately 100yds of each of the two yarns. Because this was designed as a way to use up spare balls of yarn, there is no gauge specified. Instead, you’ll need to make a small swatch with the largest yarn you’re planning to use, and base your stitchcount on the stitches-per-inch you get.

tools/notions:
straight or circular needles
tapestry needle
waste yarn

skills:
provisional cast on
kitchener stitch /grafting
kfb (knit front and back)
k2tog (knit two together)