This pattern was originally a Rockin’ Sock Club 2017 pattern using the colourway Heard It Through the Grapevine.

One of the suggested origins for the expression, “heard it on the grapevine,” comes from the legendary 19th century Grapevine Tavern in New York City, so named for a huge grapevine covering the wall. During the Civil War it was a place to get information and news, as such, it was also a popular place for politicians and spies to spread rumours.

It’s possible the grapevine growing on the tavern was of the Vitis labrusca family of grapes, native to eastern North America. This family includes pink and purple varieties such as concorde, catawaba, coronation, to name a few.

The technique used in this cowl is vaguely reminiscent of entrelac in execusion, but it’s much simpler. Short sections are worked for several rows before moving on to another short section along the needles. The short rows aren’t worked in the traditional sense of short-rows; there is not attempt to close the holes, in fact, they are exaggerated as the knitted fabric curves and winds it’s way around them.

This knitting pattern includes written directions, right side and wrong side images, and clear grafting instructions.

A variation of short rows are worked in this project. Although “lace” is noted as an attribute, the holes are not created with yarnovers as in the traditional manner. The short rows are used to create the holes.

Sizes/Finished Measurements
S (M, L)
22 (25¾, 36¾)“ / 56 (65.5, 93.5) cm circumference
11” (28cm) wide

Yarn
Fingering weight (sock yarn)
305 (360, 505) yd / 280 (325, 465) m

Substitution Notes
Either solid/tonal or variegated yarns work well for this project. Fibre content is not critical to the success of the project.

Needles & Notions
4.5 mm (US 7) needles
4.5 mm (US 7) crochet hook, for provisional cast on
Scrap yarn (smooth and approximately the same weight as working yarn)
Locking stitch markers
Tapestry needle

Techniques
Knits/purls, a variation of short rows without wraps or closing the gaps, grafting.