A knitter friend and I often jokingly debate the merits of the most perfect cowl. She likes them snug and choking fitted…and I like them loose and squishy. This cowl however, is one we both agree on. It’s big and squishy, soft and warm, and can be pulled up like a hood. The knitting is simple and satisfyingly quick, the color fade keeps it interesting, and its snuggly cozy to wear.

Starting at the bottom ribbing, you work with two strands of fingering weight yarn held together. By dropping one color and picking up another, the colors blur and blend. The top edge is a folded hem with i-cord drawstring for cinching out the cold. Tassels or pom-poms add the finishing touch.