Transitions Cowl by Erika Field

Transitions Cowl

Knitting
August 2025
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
27 stitches and 38 rows = 4 inches
in Overlapping Leaves, after blocking (additional stitch gauges in pattern)
US 4 - 3.5 mm
US 3 - 3.25 mm
360 - 410 yards (329 - 375 m)
one size, 24.5" (62 cm) top circumference; 36" (91.5 cm) bottom circumference
English
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Transitions Cowl showcases the Vermont hand dyer Ellen’s Half Pint Farm on a luxurious yarn base of 50% yak (or a second base with 50% baby camel) and 50% silk in a fingering weight, available in 50g skeins. Knit bottom-up and in the round, the cowl features four unique stitch patterns with decreases between them. Aligning these stitch patterns through the transitions is central to the design. The result is a soft, lightweight, oversized cowl with gorgeous sheen, exceptional drape, and breathable warmth. When substituting yarn, look for one with similar characteristics.

An alternative yarn suggestion is from a European hand dyer based in Zurich, Switzerland. Penny Lane Yarns’ Wonder Lane base is 50% baby camel and 50% mulberry silk, available in 100g skeins. Knitting in alternative fibers (such as sheep wool and wool blends) may produce different results.

Included in the pattern addendum are instructions for adapting the cowl into a shrug that fits comfortably over the shoulders, which requires additional yardage.

Dimensions: 24.5” (62 cm) top circumference; 36” (91.5 cm) bottom circumference; 11.75” (30 cm) tall

Yarn and Yardage Requirements: Approximately 385 yards (352 meters) total; 185 yards (169 meters) of C1 and 200 yards (183 meters) of C2.

Gauge is not critical but will affect final dimensions and yardage/meterage requirements.

Gauge: measured in 4” (10 cm) squared with the cowl lying flat, after blocking: Wave Crests, 24 sts x 36 R; Overlapping Leaves, 27 sts x 38 R; Gate Pattern, 25 sts x 26 R; Woven Ladders, 24 sts x 26 R; Ribbing, 23.5 sts x 36 R

Notions: 17 stitch markers (optional), 1 BOR marker, tapestry needle, 18 t-pins for blocking

This pattern has been professionally tech edited and tested.