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This is a pattern for a stranded colourwork cowl, to fit a range of sizes, inspired by the colours and patterns found in the beautiful feathers of my flock of hens. I have chosen a subdued palette of colours, from the Jamieson’s of Shetland Spindrift range, but this cowl could also be worked in a high tone palette or in monochrome; alternative colourway suggestions are given. There are four background colours in neutral/brown shades and six foreground colours in shades of yellow and pink. The cowl is designed to fit reasonably closely to the neck, with a flared lower edge which sits neatly over the shoulders, but since it uses a single 12-stitch repeated motif, it can easily be resized for a roomier cowl. Instructions are given for a narrow cowl (60 cm / 23 ½” circumference) and a wide cowl (68 cm / 26 ¾” circumference.); both are 26 cm (10 ¼”) tall.

This pattern requires 2 balls of the main background colour, but none of the remaining colours uses a full ball, so this pattern is ideal for stash busting.

Techniques used include Estonian two-colour braided cast on (optional), 3-needle bind off, knitting in the round, and a folded hem.