The name Verba comes from the Ukrainian word for willow, a tree symbolizing resilience and protection. Tender leaves and soft spring catkins translated into knit stitches make the fabric of the Verba Cowl feel alive and full of character. Try making this piece in solid or tonal colors for a texture-focused knit, or in unusual color ways to bring out every shade in a special skein.

Instructions are both charted and written out.

Size

• Circumference, adjustable: 56cm (22in)
• Depth at shortest point (back): 19cm (7 1/2in)
• Depth at longest point (front), adjustable: 40cm (16in)

Yarn

• Fingering weight, 365m (400yds)
• Sample yarn: Sweet Georgia Flaxen Silk Fine (65% silk, 35% linen), light fingering, 100g (3 1/2 oz), 439m (480yds), in Papaya
• The pattern is designed to let variegated, self-striping, or self-patterning yarns shine.

Needles

• 3.25mm (US 3) circular needles on a 40cm (16in) cable

Gauge

• 32 sts and 45 rows measure 10 x 10cm (4 x 4in) over pattern, after blocking
• Swatch to determine the needle size that achieves the correct gauge

Construction

• The project is started at the bottom tip and worked flat until the required width is reached. Then, the edges are joined and the cowl is worked in the round.
• The edges feature mock I-cords. The top of the cowl uses an I-cord bind off (cast off).
• If you wish to adjust the width of the cowl, make fewer or more repeats of the pattern. The cowl can be worked to any desired height.
• A tassel can be added for a more playful look.