The Autumn Equinox Bandana Cowl: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Neck Warmer
Wrap Yourself in Autumn: The Asymmetrical Brioche Bandana Cowl
There’s something magical about a knit that feels like a warm hug on a crisp fall day. The Autumn Equinox Bandana Cowl is exactly that—a stunning, modern accessory that combines the squishy luxury of brioche stitch with a dramatic, asymmetrical point. This free pattern creates a reversible, textured neck warmer that drapes beautifully over your shoulders, making it the perfect statement piece for sweater weather. Whether you’re a brioche beginner or a seasoned knitter, this project is a rewarding journey into texture and shape.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather these supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience.
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (approx 250-300 yards). The sample uses Malabrigo Rios in 'Piedras' (a rich, heathered terracotta) and 'Natural' (undyed cream).
- Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) 24-inch circular needle (for working flat and in the round).
- Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle for weaving ends, scissors.
- Gauge: 18 sts and 24 rows = 4 inches in Stockinette stitch (blocked). Gauge is not critical but affects finished size.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Finished Dimensions & Abbreviations
Finished Dimensions: Approximately 24 inches wide at the top (neck edge) and 16 inches deep at the longest point (center point).
Abbreviations:
- CO: Cast on
- BO: Bind off
- k: Knit
- p: Purl
- st(s): Stitch(es)
- k2tog: Knit two stitches together
- ssk: Slip, slip, knit (decrease)
- yo: Yarn over
- brk: Brioche knit (knit the stitch together with its yarn over)
- brp: Brioche purl (purl the stitch together with its yarn over)
- sl1yo: Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in front, then bring yarn over needle to back (creates a yarn over)
Pattern Notes
- The cowl is worked flat in two mirrored sections (left and right) from the bottom point upwards, then joined and worked in the round for the neck band.
- The brioche stitch creates a reversible, squishy fabric.
- The asymmetrical shape is achieved by working increases on one side only.
Section 1 (Left Side)
CO 3 sts.
Row 1 (WS): k1, p1, k1.
Row 2 (RS): k1, sl1yo, k1. (4 sts)
Row 3 (WS): k1, brp, k1.
Row 4 (RS): k1, sl1yo, k1, sl1yo, k1. (6 sts)
Row 5 (WS): k1, brp, k1, brp, k1.
Row 6 (RS): k1, sl1yo, k to last 2 sts, sl1yo, k1. (8 sts)
Row 7 (WS): k1, brp, p to last 2 sts, brp, k1.
Repeat Rows 6-7 until you have 30 sts, ending with a WS row.
Shape the point (increase on left edge only)
Next Row (RS): k1, sl1yo, k to end. (31 sts)
Next Row (WS): k1, brp, p to last 2 sts, brp, k1.
Repeat these 2 rows until you have 45 sts, ending with a WS row.
Shape the neck edge (decrease on left edge only)
Next Row (RS): ssk, sl1yo, k to end. (44 sts)
Next Row (WS): k1, brp, p to last 2 sts, brp, k1.
Repeat these 2 rows until 30 sts remain, ending with a WS row.
Section 2 (Right Side)
Work as for Section 1, but mirror the increases/decreases (increase on right edge, decrease on right edge).
Joining
Place sts from both sections on the needle. The points should be at the bottom, and the straight edges (neck edges) at the top.
Neck Band
Worked in the round.
Round 1: k all sts around (60 sts).
Round 2: *k1, p1; repeat from * around.
Repeat Round 2 for 2 inches.
BO loosely in pattern.
Finishing
Weave in all ends. Block gently to open up the brioche stitch and shape the points.
Now you have a beautiful, textured bandana cowl that’s perfect for crisp autumn days. The two-color brioche creates a reversible fabric with alternating vertical stripes of terracotta and cream, while the asymmetrical point adds a modern, dramatic drape. Enjoy your cozy new accessory!
