How to Knit a Cushy Cowl

The Cushy Cowl is a bit more challenging than a garter stitch scarf, but not so hard as to scare off beginners. It’s a project that introduces a few essential techniques that will move you beyond noob territory and closer to the realm of hats, socks and mittens! Best of all, the cowl is knit in garter stitch with super bulky yarn, which produces a thick fabric that highlights the sculptural and springy qualities of garter stitch. Super bulky yarn also knits up quick for instant gratification! Win-win!

Grab the free knitting pattern at the shop and follow along in the tutorial video!
Note: this video is close captioned. Turn it on in the bottom-right corner of the player.

In this tutorial video you’ll learn how to cast on with the best, default cast on – the longtail cast on – and how to knit garter stitch in the round. You’ll also learn how to join a new ball of yarn to your work and how to weave in your ends for a neat finish. And then… you’re done! Loop the cushy cowl around your neck and stay toasty against the polar vortex!

Materials List

To help you gather your materials quickly, I’ve put together a list of materials that were used in the video. In instances where I couldn’t find the original product, I’ve listed a similar product that I’ve used and liked. Listed prices are correct as of December 22, 2015. Prices are in USD *

• 32″ US 17/12mm circular needle ($13.50)
• Malabrigo Rasta Super Bulky Yarn in color Pearl Ten
• Susan Bates 15 pc large heart stitch markers ($3.99)
• Dritz soft tape measure ($2.73)
• J.A. Henckels household scissors ($20.81)

Proud of Your Cushy Cowl? Share a photo on our Facebook page and let us see the glorious work of your hands!

Viewing the PDF File: If you’re having trouble viewing the PDF, please check out the technical support page. If you are unable to view the pattern in the browser, try saving the PDF file to your hard drive first and then opening the PDF in a PDF reader like Adobe Reader, which is free, or an app like Preview on a Mac.

* Affiliate Disclosure: Please note that some links in the materials list are affiliate links. This means that, at no cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through the links. Please understand that I’ve purchased all of these items on my own. I’ve had success using them, which is why I recommend them. However, only buy what you need! Many knitters have used other materials, and their results are just as lovely.