If you add 4 of my designs to your cart, the least expensive one will be free ~ enjoy!

Desperado features two simple and entertaining slip-stitch patterns, in-the-round construction so that the wrong side is hidden away, a super-cozy double layer to keep you toasty, and almost no purl stitches — you can just knit and slip to your heart’s content.

If you have a lovely gradient or variegated yarn in your stash, this is a terrific way to show it off. And it makes the knitting so much fun!

On the other hand, this cowl is a great way to highlight beautiful yarn scraps. The different slip-stitch sections are repeated three times, so you only need about 90 yards for each section (and much less for the striped bands), and all of the ends will be hidden away inside the cowl.

Instructions are fully written, with three optional charts.

Construction

Desperado begins with a provisional cast on. It is then knitted in the round to form a long tube. The chevron slip-stitch pattern is a fun and easy 6-stitch repeat; all of the other stitches are even easier.

When the knitting is complete, the provisionally cast-on stitches are placed on a second circular needle, and the two ends are grafted together using Kitchener Stitch. You have the option of putting a half twist in the tube before grafting to create a moebius shape.

Step-by-step grafting instructions are included in the pattern, as well as links to video tutorials for grafting and the provisional cast on.

Finished Measurements

Height: 9.5”/24 cm
Moebius circumference: 27”/68.5 cm
Simple loop circumference: 30”/76 cm

Yarn

• Approximately 355 yds/325 m fingering-weight yarn in main color; a solid yarn is recommended (shown in Madelinetosh Tosh Mo Light in Horror Hostess #604)
• Approximately 270 yds/247 m fingering-weight yarn in contrast color; a gradient or variegated yarn is recommended (shown in Spincycle Yarns Dyed in the Wool in Robin’s Egg)
• The mosaic pattern is clearest when there is plenty of contrast between the two colors.

Gauge

26 stitches and 32 rows = 4”/10 cm square in stockinette stitch on US 5/3.75 mm needles, blocked.

Yardage requirements and finished measurements will vary if your gauge differs.

Tools

• Two US 5/3.75 mm circular needles (or size needed to obtain gauge), 24”/60 cm in length
• Crochet needle for provisional cast on
• Smooth scrap yarn such as cotton
• 1 stitch marker; optional: 6 markers in another color
• 2 removable stitch markers, in different colors
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Pins for blocking

Would you like to join a KAL or get the inside scoop on new designs? Looking for help with a pattern? You’ll find the ShadyStroll Knits ravelry group here.