This is a fast and easy knit with chunky yarn, making it a great last-minute gift (for yourself or a loved one!) that looks anything but last minute.

This cowl acts like a turtleneck: it doesn’t flop over; it really keeps your neck warm! If you want a larger cowl, though, just increase pattern stitches in multiples of 7.

Instructions for the simple twist stitch are included in the pattern, as well as one method of increasing, the M1. You could simply knit front and back (kf&b) in the stitches indicated, though, if you prefer.

Any chunky weight yarn will look great with this pattern. I have made them with Plymouth Baby Alpaca Grande, James C. Brett Marble Chunky, and Berroco Comfort Chunky. Whether variegated, self-striping, or solid color, alpaca, or acrylic, they all turned out beautifully.

You can read more about the happy evolution of this pattern on my blog:
www.yarninyarnout.blogspot.com/2013/10/a-christmas-cowl.html