Durham Chevrons Cowl

Chevron and zigzag patterns are not just knitters’ motifs. They have been reinterpreted by artists, both ancient and modern, time and again in many mediums. Whether on pottery, in architecture, or embroidered on cloth, these symbols are common to many different cultures around the world. The famous chevron columns of Durham Cathedral in the north of England inspired this cowl, which is knitted as a tube with alternating colors and a bit of texture.

MATERIALS

Yarn Freia Fine Handpaints Ombré Worsted (100% Columbia/Corriedale/Rambouillet wool; 127 yd [115 m]/2½ oz [75 g]; worsted weight); Chameleon (MC), 2 balls. North Bay Fiber Heritage Sport (100% Targhee-Polypay wool; 225 yd [205 m]/1¾ oz [50 g]; sportweight); Night Shade (CC), 1 skein.

Needles Size 6 (4 mm): 16” circular (cir); second cir in same size or smaller to hold sts while grafting.

Gauge 28 sts and 24 rnds = 4" in chevron patt.

Note: A variety of gauges will work for this project. Changing gauge will also change the yardage required and finished size.

Notions Smooth waste yarn for provisional CO; markers (m); tapestry needle.

Finished Size 36" circumference and 7" wide (doubled in tube shape).

Photographed on location at Olympia Farm in Guilford, Connecticut

About Kate Larson: Kate Larson (she/her) is Senior Editor of Farm & Fiber Knits. For nearly as long as Kate has been handspinning and knitting, she has been helping others find their paths as makers and forge deeper connections with the landscapes that produce the wool and cotton, flax, and silk that they hold in their hands. While Kate has published a book, many articles and patterns, and several instructional videos, she especially loves celebrating the work of other fiber folks. The editor of Spin Off from 2018–2025, she directs spinning events in addition to editing Farm & Fiber Knits. If you can’t find Kate, she’s most likely in the barn having a chat with her beloved Border Leicester sheep.

All items in the library are intended for personal use. Please do not distribute without written approval.