Collage of a knitted scarf on a mannequin, floral-patterned pants, a purple hat and scarf with blue-haired person, and a close-up of a gray knit pattern, surrounded by colorful flowers.

18 Free Cowl Knitting Patterns to Keep You Stylish and Warm

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A knitted cowl is the ultimate versatile accessory, combining warmth, style, and practicality for any wardrobe. This timeless piece enhances everything from casual sweaters to sleek coats, offering a cozy layer that’s as functional as it is fashionable. With countless styling possibilities, it’s a must-have for braving colder months in comfort and style.

In this article, you’ll discover a range of free, beginner-friendly cowl knitting patterns that are easy to follow, allowing you to craft unique, personalized designs. Whether you prefer bold colors, intricate textures, or classic simplicity, these patterns let you create the perfect cowl to suit your taste.

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1. Just Weave It – 2024

  • Designed by Susan Ashcroft

This stylish knit cowl features a striking color palette and an eye-catching design that stands out. Easy to make with a free knitted cowl pattern, it’s both fashionable and functional, adding a unique touch to any outfit. This piece will leave you thrilled with its chic, modern appeal.

A mannequin wearing a multicolored knitted scarf with a speckled pattern. Pink flowers and greenery are visible in the background.

PHOTOS by Summerberrycrafts / Ravelry.com

Find the original free pattern on Ravelry.

2. Terza Cowl

  • Designed by Samantha Burger

Make a bold statement with this vibrant, knitted cowl that captures both style and personality. Customizable in various color combinations, it’s perfect for expressing your unique flair. This cozy knitted accessory will add a splash of color to your wardrobe while keeping you warm and stylish.

Person with blue braids wearing a purple knit hat and cowl, with a matching hat displayed above, in front of a colorful mosaic wall.

PHOTOS by Samantha Burger / Ravelry.com

Find the original free pattern on Ravelry.

3. Forest Animal / Dino Cowl

  • Designed by Geriellen Dow

Choose between two playful designs for this knitted cowl – one with fun animals and another featuring dinosaur motifs. Bright and stylish, it’s the perfect way to stay warm and add a lively touch to your look. This unique knit cowl is sure to turn heads with its fun, imaginative patterns.

Three knitted scarves with colorful animal and floral patterns displayed on a wooden surface.

PHOTOS by Geriellen Dow/ Ravelry.com

Find the original free pattern on Ravelry.

4. Winter’s Best Friend Cowl

  • Designed by Magdalene Grabill

Knit a warm, stylish piece that’s perfect for chilly weather using this beginner-friendly free knitted cowl pattern. Simple yet elegant, this cozy accessory is easy to create and versatile enough to complement any cold-weather outfit. It’s the ideal project for adding warmth and sophistication to your winter wardrobe.

A hand-knitted, textured gray sleeve with a diamond pattern and thumb opening is shown on a plaid fabric background.

PHOTOS by Magdalene Grabill / Ravelry.com

Find the original free pattern on Ravelry.

5. It Took Two

  • Designed by srossinifaust

Wrap yourself in the beauty of this textured knitted cowl, crafted with ombre yarn for a stunning gradient effect. Its intricate design combines multiple techniques, creating an eye-catching knitted neck accessory that’s both stylish and cozy – perfect for making a statement in any season.

Two mannequins showcase knit cowls in multicolored cowls, one in warm red tones and the other in cool blue hues.

PHOTOS by srossinifaust / Ravelry.com

Find the original free pattern on Ravelry.

6. Simple Cowl

  • Designed by Amanda Saladin

Elevate your wardrobe with this dark and sophisticated knit cowl. Made with a blend of deep navy and black hues, it’s versatile, practical, and effortlessly chic. Its rich tones make it a perfect match for both casual and formal outfits. Follow the free knitting pattern to create this timeless knitted cowl with ease!

A blue knit rectangular scarf with a textured pattern lies on a wooden surface, its intricate stitching highlighted in close-up.

PHOTOS by Amanda Saladin / Ravelry.com

Find the original free pattern on lovelifeyarn.com, or read more about it on Ravelry.

7. I Love Waffles Cowl

  • Designed by Heather Rhoads

Add a pop of style and warmth to your wardrobe with this vibrant waffle-textured knitted cowl. Crafted with colorful yarn, it’s perfect for showcasing your individuality while staying cozy on chilly days. The unique texture provides a snug and modern look, making it an excellent accessory for layering over jackets or sweaters.

A person wearing a colorful knit cowl. Below, the neck warmer is displayed on a wooden chair outdoors.

PHOTOS by Heather Rhoads / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on Ravelry.

8. Wandering Waves Bandana Cowl

  • Designed by Francoise Danoy

Elevate your winter accessories with this triangular knit cowl, a masterpiece of classic techniques paired with intricate lace inserts. Its sophisticated design offers both warmth and elegance, making it a standout piece for formal occasions or everyday chic. The lace detailing adds a delicate touch, while the triangular shape allows for versatile styling.

A person wearing a turquoise knit cowl draped elegantly over a light purple top.

PHOTOS by Francoise Danoy / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on thepracticeoffibre.myflodesk.com, or read more about it on Ravelry.

9. Texture Sampler Cowl

  • Designed by bean.town.shu

Wrap yourself in warmth and style with this beautifully textured knitted cowl. The rich stitches create a cozy yet sophisticated accessory that’s perfect for chilly days. Ideal for layering with coats or sweaters, it provides both elegance and functionality. Dive into the joy of knitting with this wonderful cowl pattern and enjoy every stitch!

Two knit swatches on a speckled and black background. The top swatch, perfect for a cozy knit cowl, is in brown tones, while the bottom swatch features blue and green tones, showcasing varied patterns.

PHOTOS by bean.town.shu / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on Ravelry.

10. Shade Knit Cowl Pattern

  • Designed by Galt House of Yarn

This easy knitting pattern lets you craft a stunning knit cowl featuring diagonal stripes and delicate lacework. Whether you choose vibrant color combinations or a refined monochromatic palette, this design stands out as both bold and elegant. The lace accents add a touch of softness, making it a perfect accessory for transitional seasons or special occasions.

A knitted scarf and matching cowl in pink, purple, and white stripes are displayed on weathered wooden planks.

PHOTOS by Galt House of Yarn / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on Ravelry.

11. Slip Happy Plaid Cowl

  • Designed by The Lamb & Kid Designs

This knit cowl combines warmth and sophistication with its textured, vibrant design. Choose your favorite colors to make it a standout piece that reflects your style. Its cozy feel and bold pattern are perfect for accessorizing winter outfits, whether you’re dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual on a chilly day.

A person is showcasing a vibrant knit cowl in the top image, featuring green and orange hues, while the bottom image highlights a gray cowl with charming pink accents.

PHOTOS by The Lamb & Kid Designs / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on Ravelry.

12. Bonney Lake Cowl

  • Designed by Traci Scott

Created with a warm and elegant touch, this knitted cowl offers both comfort and flair. The sleek, textured design adds depth and interest, while the cozy yarn ensures it’s a go-to piece for colder weather. Whether you prefer neutral tones or vibrant hues, this stylish knit cowl will enhance any wardrobe effortlessly.

Knitted swatch with multicolored geometric patterns in red, blue, and white lays on a wooden surface. A hand holds the swatch for display, offering inspiration for your next knit cowl project. .

PHOTOS by Traci Scott / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on fleecelovehappiness.home.blog, or read more about it on Ravelry.

13. Count Your Blessings

  • Designed by Light From Lantern

A knitted cowl that perfectly balances elegance and warmth. Classic ribbed edges provide a structured look, while subtle stripes and delicate bubble stitches create an interesting texture. Whether paired with a wool coat for a polished look or layered over a chunky sweater for extra coziness, this accessory is a must-have.

a knitted cowl with bobble stitches in white

PHOTOS by Light From Lantern / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on patreon.com, or read more about it on Ravelry.

14. Sprinkle Cowl

  • Designed by Purl Soho

Light yet cozy, this stylish knit cowl stands out with its diagonal stripes in soft blue and white. The textured design adds depth, making it a sophisticated choice for crisp mornings or windy afternoons. Drape it over a tailored coat for a refined touch or wear it with a casual sweater for effortless charm.

a knit cowl in variegated yarn in blue and white

PHOTOS by Purl Soho / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on purlsoho.com, or read more about it on Ravelry.

15. Seiche Free Cowl Kniting Pattern

  • Designed by Lynne Sosnowski

A striking knitted cowl with an unconventional texture – wide cables intertwine with airy sections, creating a bold yet lightweight effect. The interplay of solid and openwork elements makes this accessory both warm and visually intriguing. Its structured design allows for multiple styling options, from a loose drape to a snug wrap.

a knitted cowl with a unique texture

PHOTOS by Lynne Sosnowski / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on knitty.com, or read more about it on Ravelry.

16. B182 Knit Below Cowl

  • Designed by Plymouth Yarn Design Studio

A knitted cowl designed for ultimate comfort on the coldest days features a thick, voluminous structure with a beautiful textured surface. Its alternating raised and recessed stitches form an eye-catching pattern, while the generous fit ensures full coverage. Whether layered over outerwear or worn indoors, this essential piece guarantees warmth.

a woman wearing a two-colored chunky knitted cowl

PHOTOS by Plymouth Yarn Design Studio / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on Ravelry.

17. Island Cowl and Hat

  • Designed by Beata Jezek

Imagine wrapping yourself in this cozy crochet cowl, crafted with super bulky yarn. The thick texture provides unbeatable warmth and softness, making it the perfect accessory for chilly spring days. Its vibrant, multicolored design ensures it pairs effortlessly with any outfit, adding a stylish pop to your look.

a woman wearing a warm knit cowl made in colorful super bulky yarn

PHOTOS by Beata Jezek / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on shop.hedgehogfibres.com, or read more about it on Ravelry.

18. Fantasi – Cowl Knitting Pattern

  • Designed by Agnes Brandels

Envision yourself stepping out on a crisp morning, neck wrapped in a soft, ribbed crochet cowl that provides both comfort and style. This piece, in a rich green tone, is elevated with a contrasting light green edge, making it fresh and versatile.  Keep your neck snug and your look stylish throughout the season.

a little boy wearing a knit cowl in a dark green color

PHOTOS by Agnes Brandels / Ravelry.com

Find the original pattern on Ravelry.

Find even more cozy ideas in the post with Warm and Cozy Knitted Shawl Patterns.

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Anna is an experienced researcher and copywriter. She specializes in the fashion field. For more than 4 years, she has written reviews, tips, and news about sewing, and in the last years paid her closest attention to crocheting and knitting. Anna knows a lot about fashion trends, keeps track of shows, and constantly learns to see and understand art. Since childhood, she has loved to understand the details and do the best job, so now she finds the best projects for you so that you enjoy them. Anna is Ukrainian but lives now in Poland with her husband and two kids.

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