purlJam

# COZY CHILD'S COWL

A simple and cozy cowl designed for young children (ages 3-6). This quick-knit project features a classic 2x2 ribbing that provides stretch, warmth, and texture. Perfect for beginner knitters looking to practice knitting in the round!

## SKILL LEVEL
Beginner

## FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
- **Circumference**: 20 inches (51 cm)
- **Height**: 7 inches (18 cm)

## MATERIALS

### Yarn
- **Weight**: DK (Light Worsted, #3)
- **Yardage**: Approximately 175 yards (160 m)
- **Suggested Yarn**: Any soft DK weight yarn suitable for children (superwash wool, cotton blends, or acrylic work well)

### Needles
- US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles, 16 inches (40 cm) long, OR
- US 6 (4.0 mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs), set of 4 or 5
- Or size needed to obtain gauge

### Notions
- Stitch marker
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors

## GAUGE
20 sts × 28 rounds = 4 inches (10 cm) in 2x2 ribbing, slightly stretched

**Important**: Take time to check your gauge. Gauge affects the finished size of your cowl.

## PATTERN NOTES
- This cowl is worked in the round from the bottom up as a seamless tube.
- The 2x2 ribbing pattern is worked over a multiple of 4 stitches.
- A stretchy cast on and bind off are recommended to maintain the elasticity of the ribbing.
- Stitch count: 100 sts [Calculation: 20 inches × 5 sts/inch = 100 sts; 100 ÷ 4 = 25 pattern repeats ✓]

## ABBREVIATIONS
- k = knit
- p = purl
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- CO = cast on
- BO = bind off
- pm = place marker
- sm = slip marker

## INSTRUCTIONS

### Cast On
Using the long-tail cast on (or your preferred stretchy cast on method), CO 100 sts. [100 ÷ 4 = 25 repeats ✓]

Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist the stitches. Pm to mark the beginning of the round.

### Body
**Round 1**: *K2, p2; repeat from * to end of round. [Pattern repeat: 4 sts × 25 = 100 sts ✓]

**Repeat Round 1** until piece measures 7 inches (18 cm) from cast on edge, or desired height.

### Bind Off
BO all sts in pattern (knit the knit stitches and purl the purl stitches as you bind off). Use a stretchy bind off method or bind off loosely to maintain elasticity.

## FINISHING
1. Weave in all ends securely using a tapestry needle.
2. Block lightly if desired by dampening and laying flat to dry, gently shaping to finished measurements.

## VARIATIONS

### Taller Cowl
For a cowl that can be doubled over or pulled up higher, work until piece measures 10-12 inches before binding off. This will require approximately 225-250 yards of yarn.

### Different Ribbing Options
- **1x1 Ribbing**: CO an even number of sts. Work *k1, p1* around for more stretch.
- **Stockinette**: Work all knit stitches every round for a simple, smooth fabric (note: stockinette will roll at edges).

### Color Stripes
Change colors every 1-2 inches for playful stripes. Simply drop the old color and start knitting with the new color, carrying the unused yarn up the inside.

### Adult/Teen Size
For an adult or teen version:
- CO 120 sts [120 ÷ 4 = 30 repeats ✓] for a 24-inch circumference
- Work to 8-10 inches tall
- Requires approximately 250-300 yards

## CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Follow the care instructions on your yarn label. Most DK weight yarns suitable for children can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and laid flat to dry.

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**Design Notes**: This pattern is designed for approximately 20 inches circumference [100 sts ÷ 5 sts/inch = 20 inches ✓] and 7 inches height, perfect for children ages 3-6. The 2x2 ribbing provides excellent stretch for ease of wear and room to grow.

**Yarn Amount Verification**: Circumference 20" × height 7" × 5 sts/inch × 6 rows/inch ÷ 1,440 (sq in per yard) × 1.2 (ribbing factor) ≈ 175 yards ✓