New Orleans is such a special place to my family. My husband grew up in Louisiana, and he was quick to share his love of the Big Easy with me! There is nothing more relaxing than taking a morning walk around the French Quarter, visiting a local yarn shop or bookstore, then enjoying beignets and cafe au lait with a gorgeous view of St. Louis Cathedral. Of course, part of what makes New Orleans so interesting is the centuries-old tradition of Mardis Gras, and I wanted to celebrate that cultural icon with this beautiful cowl design. Knit from the bottom up in the traditional purple, gold, and green, and featuring a slipped-stitch texture, this pattern is perfect for beginner knitters looking to practice their colorwork skills. I’ve also included instructions for a simpler 2-color version as well! :)

The yarn I used for this project was a gift from one of my favorite yarn companies, Cardiff Cashmere. Their Classic DK yarn is a luxurious experience both to knit with and to wear! It’s incredibly soft, warm, and lightweight, and comes in an enormous range of colors. They have several other yarn styles that I have worked with as well, and I highly recommend trying them out! You can use the store locator on their website to find a local brick-and-mortar shop, or online store to purchase your new favorite yarn.

MATERIALS

• Approx. 655 total yards of DK weight (3) yarn. I used Cardiff Cashmere Classic in Lavender for Color 1 (275 yards), Wood for Color 2 (180 yards), Metis for Color 3 (100 yards), Smoking for Color 4 (100 yards). For the 2 color version, you will need approx. 573 yards of Color 1 and 82 yards of Color 2.

• US size 3 (3.25mm) 16” circular knitting needles

• Common notions such as scissors, stitch markers, yarn needle, etc.

MEASUREMENTS

Approximately 15” tall and 13” wide when laying flat.

GAUGE

Approximately 37 sts and 41 rounds = 4”

DISCLAIMER

You are more than welcome to sell anything you make using this pattern; I just ask that you credit me as the designer. You may not claim this pattern as your own, and you may not sell or distribute its contents in any form. If you have any questions, you can reach me by email at thechesapeakeneedle@gmail.com.

SHARING

I hope you enjoy this knitting pattern! Also, I’d love to see your work! Tag me in your photos on Instagram using @thechesapeakeneedle, #thechesapeakeneedle, and #MardiGrasCowl so that I can find you easily! I just might share your photos on my page. See you there!