How to Knit a Cowl Scarf in the Round for Beginners | Easy Pattern

Jan 4

Knit a Cozy Cowl in the Round

Learning how to knit a cowl in the round is one of the best ways to build confidence as a knitter — and this easy beginner cowl pattern is designed to walk you through the process step by step. The written instructions are included directly on this page, making it simple to follow along as you knit, even if this is your first time working in the round.

In the accompanying video tutorial, I show you exactly how to knit the cowl from start to finish, including how to adjust the pattern for different gauges. This makes the pattern flexible and forgiving, whether you’re working with the exact yarn shown or using something you already have. You’ll learn not just what to do, but why it works — so you can apply the same ideas to future projects.

This cowl is meant to be a foundational pattern you can return to again and again. Once you understand the construction, it’s easy to modify the length, stitch pattern, or yarn weight to make it your own. If you’ve been looking for a straightforward, confidence-building project that teaches skills you’ll actually use, this is a great place to start.

Make sure to follow me on Instagram to see what I’m up to daily!

Measurements

The cowl measures 22 in/56 cm in circumference and 9 in/23 cm high.

Supplies

1 skein Lion Brand Re-Spun Thick and Quick Yarn (1 skein is 12 oz/340 g, 223 yds/204 m long). Color shown is Wisteria.
9mm (US 13) 16 in/40 cm circular knitting needle
1 stitch marker
tapestry needle
scissors
tape measure

Gauge

10 stitches and 13 rows = 4 in/10 cm

Check out my pattern library with other beginner-friendly knitting patterns and tutorials

Get the Pattern Library

Watch the Video Tutorial

Instructions for Knitting in the Round

Using the 9mm (US 13) 16 in/40 cm circular knitting needles, cast on 56 stitches and join work in the round being careful not to twist the stitches.
Bottom Ribbing
Round 1: K1, P1; repeat from * to end.
Round 2-3: Repeat Round 1.
Cowl Body
Round 1: K to end.
Repeat round 1 until work measures approximately 8 in/20.5 cm from the cast on edge.
Top Ribbing
Rounds 1-2: K1, P1; repeat from * to end.
Bind off in 1x1 rib. Weave in ends and block to measurements.

Instructions for Knitting Flat

Using the 9mm knitting needles, cast on 56 stitches
Bottom Ribbing
Row 1 (Wrong Side): K1, P1; repeat from * to end.
Row 2 (Right Side): K1, P1; repeat from * to end.
Row 3: K1, P1; repeat from * to end.
Cowl Body
Row 1 (Right Side): K to end.
Row 2 (Wrong Side): P to end.
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 1 until work measures approximately 8 in/20.5 cm from the cast on edge, ending after a wrong side row.
Top Ribbing
Row 1 (Right Side): K1, P1; repeat from * to end.
Row 2 (Wrong Side): K1, P1; repeat from * to end.
Bind off in 1x1 rib. Seam sides together, weave in ends, and block to measurements.

Please note that some links contained in this post are affiliate links and I may receive a commission on items purchased from those links.

Ashley Lillis