Sling Cowl :: A Crochet Pattern ::

One thing I definitely don't really need is more neckwear. I have a bit of scarf/shawl problem, I just love knitting/crocheting these garments and I do put them all to good use. However I've discovered since the temperature dropped, that scarves and baby slings do not make for great companions. I'm always worried about the tails getting in Effie's face and they just don't sit quite right with the sling in place.

When we pulled all the knitwear out of storage last week, I noticed the snood I knit for Johnny a couple of years ago and realised that was exactly what I needed. Something that fits perfectly around my neck, without any ends to get in the way and sits high enough to be well out of Effie's face. As knitting isn't really working for me at the moment, for whatever reasons, I decided to crochet my version.
I thought I'd share this simple little pattern with you here. It's quick, easy, unisex and would make a great Christmas gift too.

Ingredients ::

2 x balls of Tiger Yarn (held double for crocheting)
1 x 9mm crochet hook

I really love this yarn from Tiger, it's 100% acrylic but it's gorgeously soft and I love that it's single ply, plus it's a massive bargain. To subsititue use a heavy aran weight yarn held double.

Abbreviations ::
ch - chain
dc - double crochet (UK term)
rep - repeat
st(s) - stitch(es)
tr - treble stitch (UK term)

Gauge ::
Gauge is not especially important for this project, but my swatch measures 8 sts and 6 rows per 10cm square, using a 9mm hook with the yarn held double.

Method ::
Row 1 : With the yarn held double, ch17, 1dc in 2nd ch from hook, 1tr, *1dc, 1tr, rep from * to end of ch - 16sts
Row 2 : Ch1, *1dc, 1tr, rep from * to end of row
Note : for each row you should be working your dc into the top of your tr stitches and your tr into the top of you dc stitches from the previous round.
Rep Row 2 until piece measures 55cm or fits comfortably around your neck.
Fasten off leaving a long end.
Join top of last row to bottom of foundation chains using slip stitch.
Weave in ends.
Voila! Wear with pride or gift to loved ones as you please.

Let me know if you make a snood for yourself I'd love to see how you get on.