Free Knitting Pattern for a Palindrome Cabled Wrap
Skill Level: Intermediate
The “Palindrome” cowl, a featured pattern in Knitty’s Fall 2022 issue, is a celebration of reversible texture. This cleverly designed cowl is worked in the round, creating a seamless loop of fabric that looks identical on both sides. The design showcases a “bold corrugation,” a prominent, ridge-like texture achieved through a carefully crafted four-row repeat pattern.
The construction begins with a provisional cast-on, a technique that leaves live stitches available for later use. The body of the cowl is then worked upwards in the reversible stitch pattern, a combination of knit, purl, and strategically placed slipped stitches. These slipped stitches, worked with the yarn held either in front or in back, are the key to creating the two-sided texture.
Once the desired length is reached, the stitches are bound off using a standard method. The magic of the seamless construction happens at the end: the provisional cast-on is carefully undone, revealing the original live stitches. These stitches are then grafted, using the Kitchener stitch technique, to the bound-off edge, creating a completely invisible join and a truly reversible cowl.
The pattern calls for a sport-weight yarn with excellent stitch definition and elasticity to best showcase the textured pattern; the recommended yarn is Sincere Sheep Cormo Sport. While the pattern itself is rated as intermediate, primarily due to the provisional cast-on and grafting, the core stitch pattern is relatively straightforward, making it an accessible project for knitters looking to expand their skills. The finished cowl is a versatile and stylish accessory, perfect for showcasing beautiful yarn and providing cozy warmth.
