Design Notebook: Soundwaves Cowl

A while ago, I wrote about a crochet project I started and couldn't put down. If you follow me on Instagram, you'll know that I didn't stop until it was finished and then I wrote up the pattern too. In fact, I wore the finished cowl out the same day, and my friend ordered the yarn from her phone and offered to be one of the testers (at that point, the pattern wasn't finished). Since then, I've completed the pattern, it's been tested (thanks, everyone!) and professionally tech edited (by Joanne Scrace) and I'm delighted to tell you that the PDF pattern is now available.

Scheepjes Velvet in 'Kelly' & Colour Crafter in 'Verviers'

There are three key things about this cowl design that I'd like you to know: 

1. IT'S EASY TO MAKE

You only need to be able to make a chain, double crochet and treble crochet (UK terms) to complete this project. It's an easy-to-remember pattern repeat too. I've included some photos in the pattern, as well as an easy-to-follow chart, so even if you're not great at reading written crochet (or you're used to US terms) you'll be fine. 

2. IT'S EASY TO WEAR

I've described this as an any-way-up reversible cowl because it's one of those items which is just perfect to throw on without a thought - it looks good however it falls, so you don't have to fiddle about with it. I think it will be popular with adults and teens (and my 7 year old who has placed her order).

The cowl is knit flat and then seamed, but that won't be noticeable when worn. 

3. IT'S BUDGET- and SKIN- FRIENDLY

The yarn I chose is soft and lovely to wear and I've been planning a project with it since my earlier review/comparison post. It also hides the seaming very well (see above). For the main colour, I used Scheepjes* Colour Crafter Velvet which has a washed/worn effect. The contrast yarn is a solid shade of Colour Crafter. Both are the same 100% premium acrylic so the yarn is suitable for sensitive skins, vegans, kids, people who shrink things... everyone! 

It's incredibly budget friendly, coming in under £5 for both yarns (based on Wool Warehouse* prices of £1.99 for Colour Crafter and £2.99 for CC Velvet at the time of writing. The yarns are available at Wool Warehouse and Deramores* in the UK and Paradise Fibres* in the US). I used Velvet in 'Kelly #841' and Colour Crafter in 'Verviers #2017', but you can choose any colours you like - one of the pattern testers switched the 'Kelly' for 'Rogers #848' which you can see below.

Scheepjes Velvet in 'Rogers' & Colour Crafter in 'Verviers'

The pattern is available to buy now on Ravelry, where you can also add it to your 'queue' or 'favourites' - that helps more people to see it, so would be much appreciated even if you're not making it right away. I really enjoy wearing mine, and am currently making a second in a different colourway - I hope to see some more popping up on Instagram (#soundwavescowl) very soon!

*Yarn-support for this pattern was kindly supplied by Scheepjes. Affiliate links are included to the main UK & US stockists, who also ship internationally if (like me) you do not have a local retailer.