The Expanded Cowl

I went from not wanting to ever knit a cowl to knitting the biggest one I could find. This one will keep your neck warm for sure, but it will also keep your ears and shoulders warm too. This was a perfect time to finish this too. We've had a lot of cold weather lately.

The pattern called for worsted weight yarn, but this handspun was more of a dk weight. I used the same size needles and cast on number and I'm pleased with the results and it will certainly be warm. I plan on wearing it under my coat in place of a scarf and hat.

The bottom edging does have a tendency to flip up while wearing, but I don't really know what I could have done differently. Maybe I could have made the whole shoulder part slightly wider, but it works as it is. The pattern was very to follow. The instructions were clear and nothing was overly complicated. I have seen several more patterns, mostly wraps and shawls, by this designer that I'd like to knit.

I liked being able to use my handspun yarn for this project. I've really been enjoying the projects I knit with handspun. Its like a surprise as you knit - cause you are never sure how the yarn will knit up. I always wonder what the color will do and if my spinning mistakes will be hidden. If you are spinning your own yarn but not knitting with it, you really are missing something.

Project Info

Pattern: Balsam by Ilga Leja
Yarn: Geddesberg Handspun Yarn
Bluefaced Leicester
10 ounces / 588 yards
Roving - Hello Yarn - Insect Wings (Club Fiber)
Needles: addi TURBO Needles - US# 6 (4.0 mm) and US# 8 (5.0 mm)Notes: I did add the extra increase in the shoulder section. I knit 5 garter ridges instead of 3 for the edgings.