Hip to be Square (Cowl)

Hip to be Square Cowl by rhyFlower Knits

What is Being Made

Hip to be Square is a knitted cowl pattern designed by rhyFlower Knits. This project allows knitters to showcase a favorite yarn and stitch combination in a wearable accessory. The cowl combines texture and colorwork elements, making it an ideal project for knitters who want to feature interesting fabric combinations in a practical garment.

Skill Level and Techniques Used

This pattern is rated as Easy in skill level, making it accessible to knitters with foundational experience. The following techniques are required to complete this project:

• Basic colorwork – The pattern incorporates color changes to create visual interest and pattern definition
• K2tog-tbl (knit two together through the back loop) – A left-leaning decrease used for shaping or texture
• Knit stitch – The fundamental knit stitch forms the base of the fabric
• K-w2 (knit wrapping twice) – Creates elongated stitches for textural variation
• Old Norwegian Cast-On or preferred alternative – Used to establish the foundation stitches at the beginning of the project
• Purl stitch – The reverse of the knit stitch, used to create textured surfaces and pattern variations
• S1 (slip one stitch) – A stitch manipulation technique used for edge finishing or pattern transitions
• Stretchy Bind-Off – Applied at the end to create an elastic edge that maintains the cowl's flexibility and comfort

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This pattern is designed for 4-ply yarn weight, which provides a balanced fabric suitable for colorwork and textured stitches. Knitters will need appropriate needles for 4-ply yarn and the specified yardage as listed in the pattern's materials section. The combination of yarn weight and needle size ensures proper gauge and stitch definition for both the colorwork and textured elements featured in the design.

Design Inspiration

Hip to be Square was created as part of the Artesanitarium Design Challenge, where designers were prompted to combine two specific design features. rhyFlower Knits selected texture and colorwork as the focal points, resulting in a pattern that celebrates the interplay between these two design elements. The pattern emerged from the designer's desire to create a project that showcases beloved yarn and needle combinations in a cohesive, wearable form.