Clendenin

Clendenin Reversible Cowl by Steven Hicks

What is Being Made

Clendenin is a reversible knitted cowl designed by Steven Hicks. This finished accessory measures 24 inches by 5 inches (61 x 13 cm) and features a design that looks polished on both sides, making it a versatile piece that can be worn with either side facing outward. The reversible construction adds visual interest and extends the styling options for this intermediate-level knitting project.

Techniques Used

This cowl employs several advanced knitting techniques that elevate it beyond a basic project. The pattern uses a provisional cast-on method, which allows knitters to cast on stitches temporarily and later return to them for finishing. The design recommends the crochet cast-on method specifically, as this approach makes it easy to remove the temporary cast-on stitches while keeping the live stitches secure and ready for the final step.

The finishing technique is equally important to the construction. Clendenin employs a three-needle bind off, which joins two sets of live stitches together while simultaneously binding them off. This creates a seamless, professional-looking closure and contributes to the reversible quality of the finished cowl. The three-needle bind off is a hallmark technique for creating reversible garments, as it produces a finished edge that looks intentional and neat from both sides.

Stitches Used

The pattern uses fundamental knitting stitches in its construction. The abbreviations section references k for knit and p for purl, indicating that the cowl is built using combinations of these basic stitches. The specific stitch pattern is worked in Aran weight yarn, which creates a fabric with good drape and structure suitable for a cowl accessory.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

This project requires Aran weight yarn in two contrasting colors, designated as A and B in the pattern. Each color requires 130 yards (119 meters), for a total yardage of 260 yards. The two-color construction allows for creative color combinations and contributes to the reversible design aesthetic.

The needle requirements include:

• Primary needles: Two 24-inch (60 cm) US 8 (5.0 mm) circular needles for the main knitting
• Bind-off needle: A spare needle of similar size in any length for executing the three-needle bind off
• Provisional cast-on tool: A size G crochet hook, used specifically for the recommended crochet cast-on method
• Finishing tool: A tapestry needle for weaving in ends

The pattern also calls for Aran or worsted weight scrap yarn to use as provisional cast-on yarn and for holding stitches during construction. Using different colors of scrap yarn is noted as helpful for distinguishing different edges during the knitting process.

Gauge

The gauge for this project is 4.5 stitches per 1 inch (2.5 cm) when worked in Aran or worsted weight yarn on US 8 needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished measurements of 24 inches by 5 inches.

Difficulty Level

Clendenin is rated as an intermediate knitting project. This classification reflects the techniques involved: while the basic stitches are fundamental, the provisional cast-on, managing multiple colors, and executing a three-needle bind off require intermediate-level skills and understanding of construction methods beyond simple stockinette knitting.