This rhythmic gender-inclusive cowl design is the perfect complement to any cool-weather wardrobe. This cozy piece is a perfectly fashionable accessory for a hike or a pop of texture for any look. Knit in a squishy heavy worsted weight wool, this pattern uses knit and purl stitches with simple increases and decreases to create a truly symmetrical finished object. Because it is entirely reversible (both top and bottom, and inside and out), it also makes a great gift, since there’s no need to tell the recipient the ‘right’ way to wear it.
This design reflects feelings I’ve been having lately: the search for balanced rhythms amidst the ups and downs of life. The 4 sections find balance amongst themselves: 2 sections have increasing or decreasing stitch counts while the sections between them remain constant. If you’re SEEKING BALANCE like me, I hope this cowl pattern does the trick for you to find the calm you need.
Find full gallery images here.
YARN
2 skeins of Knit Picks Twill, 100% Superwash Merino, 149 yd /136 m per 100 g, or 165-175 g of similar heavy worsted / aran weight yarn
Sample shown in colorway Twister, 241 yd / 221 m (162 g)
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
22” around x 13” tall (56 cm around x 33 cm tall)
GAUGE & NEEDLES
20 stitches & 27 rounds = 4” (10 cm) in K3, P3 rib after blocking
US 7 (4.5 mm) circular needle, 16” (40 cm), or size needed to get gauge
TECHNIQUES
Tubular cast-on with waste yarn, knit stitch, purl stitch, simple increases and decreases, tubular bind-off
PATTERN ATTRIBUTES
This gender-inclusive reversible design is a written pattern using a table format, and includes a schematic.
EXPLORE ON INSTAGRAM
#SeekingBalanceCowl
Tech Editing: Bronwyn Hahn
Test knitting: Cathy A. Jenny B., Cindy C., Lauren C., Ryan C., Erin L., Tina P., Nicci S., Kortney T., and Cera W.
From Cathy A.
I love Shana’s pattern designs. I have knit at least eight different patterns (some multiple times). The patterns have unique construction and are easy to follow. Shana responds to any questions in a very timely manor. She is always very positive and wants to make sure you are comfortable knitting her designs.
The Modular Bento Bag is such a fun, quick knit! The directions are easy to follow. You can’t stop at making just one. Try all four sizes. Makes a great gift bag.
Cathy has knit and test knit many Shanalines Designs patterns including Seeking Balance, Moduloncho, Recalibrate, Semantics, Side Hustle Wrap (Light), Switching Stirpes Hat, and Modular Bento Bag.