Slip Tectonics Cowl

This 100% slip stitch crochet scarf is a handsome study in short row wedges. The subtle contrast between two kinds of slip stitches adds natural shaping. It cozies up to the neck and drapes effortlessly at the shoulders. The result is a comfortable cowl to wear. It’s stretchy, thin, and dense–just right as a toasty layer under a winter coat.

The stitch pattern looks more complicated than it really is. With a larger than usual crochet hook, it crochets up faster than you’d think. I devoted Issue #29 of my Crochet Inspirations Newsletter to this inspiring technique of using slip stitches for short rows.

Skill Level

Intermediate. The slip stitch is an elementary stitch, and I find that crocheting short rows with slip stitch ribbing is a breeze. It adds just enough spice to the easy stitching to create that “Just one more row!” fun.

However, short rows are considered an Intermediate skill, and the stitch gauge is much looser than most crocheters learn to use when making their elementary stitches.

Start with these training wheel patterns (some are free): Bling Bam Bangles, Slipster Slackscarf, Eva. Graduate to short rowing with slip stitches: Luckyslip Mitts (originally designed as a final project of my Slip Stitch 101 classes) and Slip Slope. After Tectonics you’ll be ready for the speedy Expedient Capelet, the fluttery Undaria, and the lacy Swoop Loop!

Pattern has few abbreviations and includes International English equivalents for American measurements, yarn weights, and stitch terms. The English equivalents are in brackets {}.

After following this pattern you will know (if you didn’t already):

• How to crochet a stylish and stretchy neckwarmer or loop scarf
• How mixing slip stitch types can add subtle texture & drape contrasts
• How to add designer touches to slip stitch short rows
• How to use a hook-led stitch gauge

Finished Dimensions

Cowl is 25″ (hem)/ 21″ (neck) x 6.5″ deep {64 cm & 54 cm long x 17 cm wide}.

For a long loop scarf, 350 yds of yarn would probably result in a 6.5″-wide scarf with at least a 60″ circumference {17 cm wide, 153 cm circumference]. Give it a half-twist before seaming to turn it into an ‘infinity scarf’–a moebius loop scarf. To increase width, use a larger hook size with thicker yarn.

Supplies List

• Crochet Hook: Size K/US10.5/6.5mm.
• Yarn Shown: Crystal Palace Mochi Plus (80% merino wool, 20% nylon; 95yd/87m per 1.75oz/50g ball): 2 balls of color 554 “Fern Rainbow.”

Substituting a yarn: The best yarns for this project are wool or acrylic blends because they add bouncy loft. Cotton yarns do not add this bounce. Long color changes in a self-striping yarn, or subtle tonal shades of a hand dyed yarn, work great for this design! Choose a plump #4 medium-weight yarn that lists on its label a crochet hook size range from US H/8/5mm-J/10/6mm. These yarns may also be referred to as Heavy Worsted, Aran, Afghan, and occasionally “Light Chunky” Weight.

• Recommended if you’re new to slip stitch crochet: up to 17 stitch markers (until you can recognize the last slip stitch of each row).