Unarmoured Defence Cowl

This pattern came from wanting to knit an item that would provide lots of warmth and cosiness, but was lightweight enough to carry around without bulk when not needed. I hoped that it would make layering garments easier and more flexible. It turned out to be incredibly practical and even enabled me to use some coats that had sat unused in my wardrobe for a few winters. It can be worn with the collar folded once in half or folded twice and with the buttons unused or closed, all enabling more cosiness or more airflow as required. Recommended yarn: Any DK-weight yarn, e.g., Whistlebare Cheviot Marsh DK [100% Cheviot and Romney Marsh Lambs Wool approx. 100g - 230m / 250yds] There are many affordable or more luxurious yarn options: don’t be afraid to experiment with your stash. The second sample used Istex Lopi Plötulopi. The outcome is something much lighter weight, toothier, with less stitch definition but equally lovely. Recommended needles: Ribbing needle: 3.75mm [US 5] small circumference circular needle or needles for your preferred method of small circumference. Main needle: 4mm [US 6] small circumference circular needle or or needles for your preferred method of flat knitting. Needle size is suggested only. You will need to swatch to determine the needle size needed to achieve gauge. Gauge: 20 sts and 24 rows over 4 inch by 4 inch / 10 cm by 10 cm in 1x1 ribbing on smaller needle. 24 sts and 28 rows over 4 inch by 4 inch / 10 cm by 10 cm in texture pattern. Notions: Stitch markers and a tapestry needle to weave in ends. Crochet hook the same size or smaller than your ribbing needle and waste yarn for the tubular cast-on. 2 buttons: sample used 5/8-inch / 15-mm buttons. Yardage: 173 (243) 300 g / 398 (559) 690 m / 433 (608) 750 yds Yardage may vary depending on yarn choice, gauge variations or modifications. Skills used: Top down, tubular cast-on, increases, i-cord edging, i-cord loops and sewing on buttons (optional). Tech Edited by Rebecca Williamson: williamsonrebeccaj@gmail.com