Description
If you like chunky knitted cowls, I hope you’ll like this pattern. Parquet is a speedy stranded colourwork project, and an excellent choice for knitters who want to try stranded colourwork for the first time. There are no purl rows because you’re working in the round, and this makes your colourwork technique easier. This advantage also means you see the pattern at all times, so you’re less likely to make mistakes. Even better!
You can mix it up with colour choices to suit your personal palette. You can use different colours for the borders, change colours between motif repeats – the choice is yours to enjoy! I used two colours, but you can definitely use more. A background colour gradient would also look beautiful.
The colourwork motif is charted. One size is given in the pattern, which measures approximately 35cm/14in when laid flat. However, helpful notes on customisation are included if you’d like to alter Parquet’s dimensions to suit your personal style.
Special Techniques
Parquet is knitted in the round on circular needles. A moss or seed stitch border brackets the main pattern.
Video and photo tutorials from A-C Knitwear, Ann Kingstone and Ysolda are highly recommended for those new to stranded colourwork, and if you’re already familiar with the technique, you’ll probably pick up a tip or two:
- https://www.acknitwear.co.uk/tutorials-1#/colourwork-tutorials
- https://annkingstone.com/knitting_school/stranded/two-handed-stranded-knitting/
- https://ysolda.com/blogs/journal/holding-the-yarn-for-stranded-colourwork
The photographed sample was knitted in Rowan Cocoon, a now-discontinued yarn. West Yorkshire Spinners Re:Treat Chunky Roving is the nearest match. Substitution advice is given in the pattern notes, but you may also like to visit YarnSub for more information – or consult with the staff in your local yarn shop. They’ll be more than happy to help!
Look at more Natalie in Stitches knitting patterns by visiting the Garments or Accessories sections of the shop or the Design Portfolio.
