A cowl is comparable to an infinity scarf. However, cowls are usually shorter. Often, they can be pulled up over the head and worn as a hood. They are continuous loops that can be made in one piece or have buttons to keep them closed. They are fashion accessories that are easy to wear and compliment almost any outfit. If you are looking for a project that you can make for yourself or give as a gift, try a knitted cowl pattern.
28 Cowl Knitting Patterns
Below are 28 amazing cowl knitting patterns. There are patterns for men, women and children.
1. Claire’s Cowl Scarf Knitting Pattern by KnitzyBlonde
This downloadable cowl knitting pattern was inspired by Claire’s cowl from season 1 of Outlander. The pattern includes 2 different designs: the basic cowl and the seed stitch cowl.
The pattern can be completed by a beginner with basic knowledge of knitting. You will need to know how to knit, purl, cast on, bind off, and stitch up the ends. Each pattern uses a different type of yarn and needle size.
Find the Pattern by KnitzyBlonde HERE
2. Alpeco Cowl Knitting Pattern by KnittedWishes
Here is a fun cowl knitting pattern that only uses one-skein. The cowl has a beautiful design with a lot of texture.
The finished measurements are approximately 14 ¼” high with an 18” circumference. You can complete the pattern with either a US size 7 24” circular needle, a pair of size 7 straight needles, or a US size 7 double-pointed needle.
Find the Pattern by KnittedWishes HERE
3. Blue Stone Bridge Knitted Cowl Scarf Pattern from O-Wool
Here is a free cowl knitting pattern that can be completed by a beginner that knows stockinette stitch and garter stitch in the round.
This knitted cowl scarf pattern uses chunky merino wool yarn in five solid colours. You can use scrap yarn for this project. You will need size 9 U.S. (5.5 mm) and size 10.5 U.S. (6.5 mm) knitting needles.
Find the Pattern from O-Wool HERE
4. Trinity Infinity Cowl Knitting Pattern by Lizzy Knits Shop
This cowl pattern uses bulky weight yarn and combines two sizes of braided cables to create 0 unique design. This cowl is knitted in the round. The cable set is worked twice, so the cable design is always facing outward.
To complete this pattern, you will need to know cast on, bind off, knit, purl, cable knitting, knitting in the round, and invisible horizontal seam.
Find the Pattern by LizzyKnitsShop HERE
5. Burton Bear Cowl Knitting Pattern by The Velvet Acorn
This adorable bear cowl would be perfect for a little girl or boy. The fun design will make it their favourite go-to accessory.
The pattern includes instructions for sizes 6/9 months, 12/18 months, toddler, child, and adult. You will also need to know how to crochet to finish the edging and details.
Find the Pattern by Thevelvetacorn HERE
6. Oversized Easy Knit Cowl Scarf Pattern by Phylphil
This oversized cowl is gorgeous. It is large, chunky and warm. It can be pulled up and used as a hood for extra warmth.
This pattern is easy and can be completed by a beginner. It uses 2 skeins of super bulky yarn, a yarn needle, and US size 17 straight knitting needles.
Find the Pattern by PhyIPhil HERE
7. Gap-tastic Cowl Knitting Pattern by Jen Geigley
Here is a free cowl knitting pattern that creates a stylish, long, bulky cowl. The Gap-tastic Cowl was designed to mimic the look of the cowls found at the GAP.
The pattern used two skeins of bulky/chunky yarn and knits up quickly on circular knitting needles. It is knitted in the round with no seams. It can easily be completed by a beginner knitter.
Find the Pattern by Jen Geigley HERE
8. Fairy Stone Cowl Knitting Pattern by Allthingsknit
This long three-toned cowl has a timeless look. It was named for Fairy Stone State Park in Virginia. The cowl has small textured stitches that represent the small stones found throughout the park.
The Fairy Stone Cowl is knitted in the round using a stockinette stitch with a few rounds of knot stitches. It has a ribbed border. You will need to know knitting in the round, knit & purl into the same stitch, and slipped stitches to complete this cowl knitting pattern.
Find the Pattern by allthingsknit HERE
9. Quick Easy Knit Cowl Scarf Pattern by lavenderhillknits
This is an adorable pattern. It includes instructions for the neck wrap and the cowl. The cowl pattern is unisex and can be worn by anyone. The Sand Pond pattern is named after a small lake in Maine. The cable pattern mimics the peaks of sand formed when the waves wash across the beach.
The pattern is written out to make it easy for a beginner. There are abbreviations to learn or charts to follow. You will need between 120 to 150 yards of bulky weight yarn. It uses knit stitch and purl stitch.
Find the Pattern by lavenderhillknits HERE
10. Arctic Chill Hat and Double Cowl Knitting Pattern by WomanOnTheWater
The Arctic Chill Hat and double cowl is warm and snugly. It is versatile and has a generous hood and two cowls which are all knitted together.
The cowl knitting pattern uses #4 worsted weight yarn. There are illustrations showing how the garment is connected and knitted in one piece. There are only basic stitches used throughout the project.
Find the Pattern by WomanOnTheWater HERE
11. The Kimberly Cowl Scarf Knitting Pattern by CalledByNamec
Here is a cute cowl that has a fun heart pattern. It knits up quickly and makes the perfect gift for a girl.
This is a beginner friendly cowl knitting pattern. It only uses are cast on, knit, purl, bind off, work in the round, and add colours.
Find the Pattern by CalledByNameco HERE
12. Ma Belle Amie Knitted Cowl Scarf Pattern by yarn-love
The Ma Belle Amie cowl uses 4 colours of yarn. The pattern creates a fun striped pattern. The cowl is knitted flat and seamed closed to form the cowl. The body is knitted using the stockinette stitch with a garter stitch on the edges.
Find the Pattern by yarn-love HERE
13. Brioche Bandana Cowl Knitting Pattern by Lavanyapatricella
This unisex cowl is knitted using the brioche stitch. It has a pointed design that helps cover the chest and keep it warm. It would work perfectly tucked into a jacket.
It is a one size fits most pattern. The pattern is both knitted in the round and flat. You will need US 11 24” circular needles, 80 yards of colour A bulky or super bulky weight yarn, 75 yards of colour B bulky or super bulky weight yarn, and a stitch marker.
Find the Pattern by lavanyapatricella HERE
14. Super Crescent Cowl Scarf Knitting Pattern by AspenLeafKnits
Here is a fun cowl scarf knitting pattern that features a scallop design. The whimsical design would make a great gift. Use a bright colour for spring, a muted colour for autumn, and red or green for Christmas.
It is an easy-to-read pattern that requires an intermediate skill level. The finished cowl measures approximately 10.5” wide at the top, 14” wide at the bottom and 10” tall.
Find the Pattern by AspenLeafKnits HERE
15. Failynn Fox Knitted Cowl Scarf Pattern by Thevelvetacorn
Any child would want this whimsical fox cowl. And it is not only for children. The pattern includes instructions for adult sizes as well.
The pattern includes instructions for sizes 12/18 months, toddler, child, and adult sizes. You can use any super bulky yarn. To finish the pattern, you will also need to know how to crochet.
Find the Pattern by Thevelvetacorn HERE
16. Buttoned Scarf Cowl Knitting Pattern by Lanadearg
This elegant, buttoned scarf cowl is perfect for those cold blistering days. It has a simple design and clean lines.
It is an easy pattern, suitable for a beginner. You will need to know casting on, binding of knit stitch, and purl stitch over.
Find the Pattern by lanadearg HERE
17. Radvent Knitted Cowl Pattern by AMBAH
This cowl is comfortable, lightweight, and easy-to-wear. It is knitted flat using twelve colours to create the gradient.
The Radvent cowl is a quick project that works up quickly. It is a great project for using up your yarn stash.
Find the Pattern by AMBAH HERE
18. Oxford Hooded Knitted Cowl Pattern by Loasidellamaglia
Simple and stylish, this cowl knitting pattern can be worked up quickly. It was designed to be pulled down over one or both shoulders or pulled up and used as a hat.
The finished cowl measures 55” in circumference and 12 ½” tall. The pattern includes step-by-step instructions and photos.
Find the Pattern by loasidellamaglia HERE
19. Infinity Scarf Cowl Knitting Pattern by KnitThisPurlThatCAN
The True North cowl scarf knitting pattern was designed to be a quick and easy knit. It is a beautiful cowl with a fun twist.
This pattern is knitted in the round with 2 strands of Malabrigo Mecha yarn. The finished pattern measures approximately 50” long and 7” wide. The pattern is for an advanced beginner that is familiar with cast on, bind off, knit stitch, purl stitch, and knitting in the round.
Find the Pattern by KnitThisPurlThatCAN HERE
20. Bernat Mobius Knitted Cowl Pattern from Yarnspirations
This stylish Mobius cowl will keep you warm on those cold winter days. The cowl is chunky and flattering.
The finished cowl measures approximately 36” x 19”. It uses 2 balls of Bernat Roving and size US13 (9mm) knitting needles.
Find the Pattern from Yarnspirations HERE
21. Dart Cowl Scarf Knitting Pattern by KnitELement
The Dart Cowl is lightweight and perfect for a spring day. It combines columns of stockinette panels and lace panels that give the sense of vertical stripes.
There is only one size, but it can easily be made larger or smaller. It uses approximately 400 yards of sock/fingering weight and 24” US 3 (3.25 mm) circular needles.
Find the Pattern by KnitELement HERE
22. Chunky Button Neckwarmer Knitted Cowl Scarf by BoPeepsBonnets
This super bulky buttoned-down cowl is a quick knit. The finished design is gorgeous, and all your friends will be asking for one. The pattern is sized for teen/adult and uses super bulky yarn.
Find the Pattern by BoPeepsBonnets HERE
23. Dove Gray Knitted Cowl Pattern by Alyssa Titus
This Dove Gray Cowl Pattern is light and lacy. It would make the perfect accessory for spring and summer. You can wear this cowl all year long without overheating.
The free cowl knitting pattern is easy and can be completed by a beginner. It uses single-ply fingering weight yarn and 10.5 of 6.5 mm knitting needles.
Find the Pattern by Alyssa Titus HERE
24. Party of Five Scarf Cowl Knitting Pattern by KeleneDesigns
Here is a great pattern for using up your left-over yarn. The pattern bring together delicate yarn, beautiful colours and eyelets to create this light and delicate cowl.
This pattern was created for an intermediate level knitter. The final measurements are 21” high, 26” upper circumference and 34” lower circumference.
Find the Pattern by KeleneDesigns HERE
25. 2 Sizes Seed Stitch Infinity Scarf by Craftyssimo
This bulky cowl will keep you warm and cosy. And it is super stylish. This cowl will become your favourite winter accessory on those cold blistering days.
An advanced beginner can complete this pattern quickly. You will need to be familiar with cast on, knit, purl, join the stitches in the round, circular knitting, cast on, and bind off. The pattern includes 2 sizes, medium and large.
Find the Pattern by Craftyssimo HERE
26. Easy Chunky Rib Mesh Infinity Scarf Cowl by Richmondhillknits
Here is a quick and easy knitted cowl scarf pattern. It is super simple and is knitted up quickly on large needles using bulky yarn.
It is a great pattern for beginners. You will need to know how to knit, purl, knit 2 together, yarn over, slip a stitch, cast on, and bind off. The pattern uses 1 pair of 6.5 mm knitting needles (US size 10 1/2) and approximately 350 yards of bulky or chunky yarn, 3 buttons, and 1 darning needle.
Find the Pattern by Richmondhillknits HERE
27. The Mokaccino Cowl and Scarf Pattern
Known as a Mokaccino cowl, this easy knit cowl scarf can also be made into an infinity scarf. The finished easy knit cowl scarf pattern has a beautiful look and feel to it. It is suited for beginner knitters as it is an easy-to-remember pattern.
This project allows the knitter to add a personalized touch giving the finished item an extra kick.
The cowl is knit using a blend of baby alpaca and merino wool for added warmth and texture. The pattern can be downloaded in PDF. The accompanying instructions for this pattern are easy to remember after a couple of rows.
They detailed instructions are written in American English. There is extensive use of standard U.S knitting terms and abbreviations in there as well.
Cowl Scarf Materials
- Aran Weight yarn preferably mixed with merino wool and baby alpaca.
- US needle size 10 or 6.0 mm.
28. Berry Cowl Knitting Pattern
Designed to use your two favorite colors, the Berry Cowl is a great beginning for learn fair island knitting. The pattern include charts and lots of pictures to make the learning process as easy as possible.
The Berry Cowl is always a fashion design great for fall/winter season, will keep you warm and cozy and looks great with any outfit! The designer is on hand to answer your questions and give you help along the way if needed.
29. Rosewood Cowl Knitting Pattern by Darling Jadore
Classic knit ribbing and sequences of mesmerizing, textured knots flow harmoniously while gradually shifting colors amidst a background of classic stockinette stitches, making this Rosewood Cowl a truly delightful and enjoyable accessory to knit.
Find the Pattern by Darling Jadore HERE
30. Hooded Cowl Knitting Pattern by Make & Do Crew
This easy hooded cowl knitting pattern is a true showstopper! Even in all it’s oversized glory, it’s very simple to create which makes it a great beginner pattern for learning how to knit in the round. Wear it up, wear it down, either way, you’ll be the most stylish lady in town!
Find the Pattern by Make & Do Crew HERE
31. Simple Lace Cowl Knitting Pattern by Red Heart
Easily add a touch of style to your outfit with this cozy knit cowl that’s so simple to make. This simple lace cowl pattern is a joy to do with straightforward techniques, including knit, purl, knit 2 together, and slip stitches. This small project is a versatile choice for gifting, so make many to please everyone on your list.
32. Quick + Cozy Cowl Knitting Pattern by Purl Soho
This Quick + Cozy Cowl may be related to a dickey-style shirt front, but its modern beauty is from a whole different family! Practical without losing any ground to good looks, this toasty layer is designed to protect the parts of you that coats don’t always cover, while sparing your shoulders from added bulk.
The long version extends over your chest for core warmth, while the short one concentrates on shielding your neck from chilly blasts.
33. Valentine Cozy Cowl Knitting Pattern by Cassandra M
This Valentine Cozy Cowl Knitting Pattern is a fun easy knit. This cute folded neck shoulder cowl for kids will keep your little one warm and is the perfect easy knitting pattern to practice your fair isle or stranded colorwork!
This fun cowl with a heart pattern can be knit in three different sizes for children from preschool through elementary!
Find the Pattern by Cassandra M HERE
34. Dotty Cowl Knitting Pattern by All About Ami
Knit this beautifully textured cowl using only one skein of worsted weight yarn and the gorgeous dot stitch! This cowl works up quickly and would make wonderful gifts for yourself or loved ones!
35. Cowl Knitting Pattern by Gathered
This cowl knitting pattern uses Fair Isle color work and simple embroidery to create a stylish tartan pattern. We love how easy it would be to change the effect by choosing a different set of colors — go bold with rainbow brights or keep it muted with pale, earthy shades.
36. Tundra Cowl Knitting Pattern by Darling Jadore
Immersed in luxuriously plush faux-fur, this Tundra Cowl is a breathtaking, sumptuous treat to knit as well as to wear! Engulfing you in the coziest faux-fur, this cowl is elegant, classy, and timeless.
Knitted seamlessly in the round on circular knitting needles, this cowl works up quickly and easily. If you want to experience the opulent comfort of faux-fur for the winter, then look no further than this Tundra Cowl Knitting Pattern!
Find the Pattern by Darling Jadore HERE
Knitted Cowl Patterns Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a cowl?
A cowl is a type of neck covering that is designed to fit over the head easily and be worn without twisting, which means they are made as one singular piece. Knitted cowls are often made from a soft, stretchy yarn so that they can easily pulled on and off the head. They are usually about 30-35 inches long on average, but the size can vary.
Is it easy to knit a cowl?
The majority of cowl knitting patterns require very little attention. They’re knitted in the round and require no shaping, sewing, or sizing, making them a breeze to make.
What’s the best yarn for knitted cowls?
When choosing yarn for a cowl, look for something soft, stretchy, and cozy. Acrylic and wool yarns are both suitable for knitting a cowl. I prefer to knit cowls out of bulky or super bulky yarn to keep me warm during the colder months.
How much yarn do I need to knit a cowl?
You can knit a cowl with just one or two skeins of yarn, which makes the project affordable or a great way to use up your leftovers.
What stitches to use to knit a cowl?
When it comes to stitches, the knitting world is your oyster. If you’re ready to try advanced stitches like cables, then knitting a cowl is a good place to begin because it takes less commitment than a sweater knitting project. On the other hand, if you’re more on the beginner-to-intermediate end of the knitting scale, you can knit a beautiful cowl with much simpler stitches like garter stitch or stockinette stitch.
IF YOU LIKE TO LOOK FASHIONABLE WHEN YOU ARE KEEPING WARM, A COWL IS ALWAYS A GOOD CHOICE. TRY ONE OF THE ABOVE KNITTED COWL PATTERNS.
Cowls are an enjoyable project that knit up quickly. They are the perfect winter fashion accessory that can be made to complement any outfit. They make great gift ideas for men and women alike.
If you are a beginner, cowls are a great way to improve your knitting skills. We have included patterns for every skill level. We are sure there will be one that you will love. Choose your favourite knitted cowl pattern and get creative.