Inspired by the heroically bulky neckwear on the streets in winter, this pattern takes pity on the knitter by being more entertaining to knit than the commercially available stockinette or seed-stitch versions. The cowl is constructed in 3 parts: a reversible center cable panel that is worked back and forth on short straight needles, and 2 side panels - one ribbed and one with sculptural ridges - that are picked up from the edges of the cable piece and worked in the round. Using all five skeins yields a glorious, dramatically textural accessory, but feel free to omit a panel for a more understated look, or make the shorter version for a minimalist version.

Size 13 (9 mm) 36” circular needles
Size 13 (9 mm) straight needles (optional to work cable section; short ones work best)
Waste yarn for provisional cast on
Cable needle
Stitch marker
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Gauge

Approximately 20sts + 10 rows (one full repeat of cable pattern) = 4¾“ wide and 2¾“ (12cm wide and 7cm high).

Note: Gauge precision is not critical as long as the knitted fabric is to your liking. Take care that the fabric is not too stiff to drape comfortably, nor so loosely knit that it becomes airy. A large difference between gauge given here and your gauge, however, will alter the amount of yarn required for the same size cowl.