Sunset Ridge Cowl

Sunset Ridge Cowl by Kristine Mullen

What Is Being Made

The Sunset Ridge Cowl is a beginner-friendly crochet cowl designed to be worn around the neck. This finished piece measures approximately 9 inches tall with a 26-inch circumference, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or standalone wear. The cowl is constructed as a rectangular panel that is seamed together at the short ends to create a continuous loop.

Yarn and Materials

This project uses #5 bulky weight yarn, requiring approximately 5 ounces or 150 yards total. The sample cowl was created using Loops & Threads Charisma in the Berry colorway, though any bulky weight yarn in your preferred color will work. You will also need a size L/11 (8 mm) crochet hook and a yarn needle for weaving in ends upon completion.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

The Sunset Ridge Cowl employs fundamental crochet techniques that make it ideal for beginners. The pattern uses the following stitches:

• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – forms the foundation and creates textured rows throughout the piece
• Single Crochet (sc) – used in alternating rows to build structure and visual interest
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – used to join the two short ends of the cowl together seamlessly

The pattern incorporates two important technique variations: back loop only (blo) and front loop only (flo) stitching. These techniques are worked in alternating rows to create a distinctive ridged texture that gives the cowl its visual appeal and name. The construction method involves working rows back and forth until the piece reaches the desired length, then seaming the short ends together by working through both the first and last rows simultaneously using slip stitches.

Pattern Specifications

The gauge for this project is 9 stitches and 8 rows over 4 inches when worked in pattern. The cowl begins with a chain of 22 stitches, which reduces to 21 working stitches. Rows are repeated in a two-row sequence until the piece measures approximately 26 inches in length, creating the circumference needed for comfortable wear. The final assembly involves holding the two short ends together and joining them with slip stitches worked through corresponding stitches from both edges.