Hip to Be Squared Zoom Loom Cowl
Designed by Lois Weaver
Since discovering the Zoom Loom, I’ve woven so many squares that I’ve lost count! I’m always looking for new and interesting ways to play with squares to mix up my designs, keeping them both comfortable and stylish.
In my newest design, I went for a “color block” look using Classic Elite’s Liberty Wool print. The long color repeats in Liberty Wool Print create subtle color changes as you move onto the next square. Eight squares are then crocheted together, defining the blocks of colors. By picking up stitches and continuing in 2 x 2 knit rib, a whole new color pattern develops. This is an easy project that incorporates weaving, crochet and basic knitting techniques for a colorful, cozy cowl.
I designed this project as a way to learn the techniques needed for my Hip to be Square Poncho which I published on Etsy this summer. Using the same yarn for this project, I had a blast playing with the differently colored squares for a dynamic look.
Project Specs
Finished size: 33" circumference by 7-1/2" tall
What You'll Need
-
Classic Elite Yarns, Liberty Wool Print, 100% washable wool, 50 grams/122 yards (2 balls). Shown in 7890 Ultra Violet Autumn
-
Zoom Loom
-
size F/3.75 mm crochet hook
-
size 8 / 5.0 mm 16” circular knitting needles
-
tapestry needle
Materials and Equipment
Directions
Weave eight squares. To get a good range of color, alternate weaving squares from the center and outside of the ball of yarn. Weave in all ends.
Work crocheted edge around each square: Pull up yarn through a loop on first square and ch 1. Single crochet (sc) in same loop. Sc in each loop around square, three sc in each corner. End with a slip stitch in the first ch 1. Pull yarn through and weave the end into the back of your work. Repeat this on each square.
Lay all eight squares end to end in a pleasing color sequence.
Using a tapestry needle, sew squares together by picking up the outside loop of the crocheted edge on adjoining squares, pulling yarn securely but not too tightly. Weave ends into the back of the squares. Not all sides will have the same number of stitches. Either skip a loop or double up in one stitch to make sides come out even. Complete the circle of the cowl by sewing the first square to the last.
With right side facing, pick up 1 st in the outside loops of each sc around cowl. It may be necessary to pick up 2 sc at joins of squares to avoid a “hole.” Count sts and make sure you have a multiple of 4 sts, approximately 108 sts total. Knit 2, purl 2 around circle until length of ribbing is approximately 2 inches. Bind off using a stretchy bind-off. Repeat on other side.
Notes
Lois Weaver, ZoZo FiberArts
Lois has been a professional weaver and designer for the past 20 years. Her unique designs are noted for their use of color, attention to detail and contemporary styling using the latest in knitting and weaving yarns. Lois has discovered the joy of introducing fellow fiber enthusiasts to new ways to enjoy fiber crafts through teaching and publishing patterns for small looms, designed with beginning weavers in mind. Lois studied art at James Madison University with a concentration in Fiber Arts. Her studio is currently located in Pueblo, Colorado.
Patterns and kits sold at https://www.etsy.com/shop/ZoZoFiberArts