A quick-to-knit cowl with a nautical feel, inspired by Katsushika Hokusai’s iconic painting The Great Wave off Kanagawa (c. 1829–1833). The simple chevron motif maximises the impact of bold, variegated yarn and is evocative of breaking ocean waves.

Garment measurements

Circumference: 62cm (24½ inches)
Length: 26cm (10¼ inches)

Skill level

Suitable for knitters with previous experience of knitting in-the-round and increasing/decreasing. The pattern uses simple short rows (no wraps), which are fully explained, and includes a photo tutorial cheap-sheet for the backwards loop increase.

Suggested yarn

1 × 200g skein It’s a Stitch Up Phlump Merino. Pictured in shade: ‘Tsunami’

Alternative yarns

130m/142 yards super chunky/super bulky yarn in pure wool or wool blend, with a recommended needle size of 10-12mm.
The chevron design is perfect for flaunting hand-dyed yarn with well-defined colour variegation. Plain and semi-solid shades give a more subtle, textured zigzag effect.

Equipment

• Yarn needle suitable for super-chunky yarn

• 4 × stitch markers to fit 10mm needle (or loops of scrap yarn). One of the markers should be distinct and will be used to mark the beginning of round.