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Such cowls are not only practical—they stay snug in place and can be pulled up to protect from brisk breezes—but are also versatile, matching well with jackets, sweaters, or even simple tees. People of all ages appreciate the endless color choices and personal touches that make each one feel special. Quick to finish and easy to learn, this pattern is perfect for gifts or personal comfort, requiring only basic yarn and a hook. Crocheting a cowl in this waffle stitch weaves together beauty, usefulness, and heartfelt warmth into one lovely accessory everyone can enjoy.

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Waffle Stitch Cowl – Step-by-Step Pattern

Materials Needed

• Yarn:
  • King Cole Rio Chunky (or other chunky weight yarn), color “Twists” (two skeins required)
  • Or any chunky yarn of your choice
• Hook: 6.0 mm crochet hook
• Notions:
  • Yarn needle (for weaving in and seaming ends)
  • Scissors

Key Abbreviations

Special Notes

• US crochet terminology is used throughout.
• This cowl is made with a two-row waffle stitch repeat and is worked flat, then seamed into a tube.
• The starting chain should be a multiple of 3 for the stitch pattern.
• Recommended finished length before joining is 28 inches for a cowl; adjust as desired.
• You may add optional embellishments such as tassels.

Pattern Instructions

1. Begin

• Ch 33 (for sample size) or any multiple of 3 to adjust width.

2. Row 1 (Foundation Row)

• Dc in 5th ch from hook (skipped 4 chs count as first dc and ch-sp),
• Dc in each ch across.
• Turn.
  [You will have 1 dc in each chain. The number of stitches should equal your starting chain minus 4.]

3. Row 2 (Set-up for Waffle Stitch Pattern)

• Ch 2 (counts as turning ch, not as a stitch), turn.
• Skip first dc, work fpdc (front post double crochet) around the next dc (2nd dc of row).
• Dc in the next st.
• 2 fpdc (one in each of next 2 sts).
• Dc in next st.
  

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• Repeat 2 fpdc in next two sts, 1 dc in next st across to end.
• For the last group, after the two fpdc, dc into the top of the 2nd ch of previous row's starting chain.
• Turn.

4. Row 3 (Second Pattern Row)

• Ch 2, turn.
• Skip first st, dc in the next 2 sts.
• Fpdc around next st (should be a fpdc from previous row).
• Dc in next two sts.
• Fpdc around next st.
• Repeat dc in next two sts, fpdc around next st across.
• At the end, you will have one dc in the last dc and then dc in top of 2nd chain from previous row.
• Turn.
  

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5. Waffle Stitch Pattern (Repeat Rows)

• Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until your fabric measures approximately 28 inches in length (or desired length for cowl or scarf).

Finishing the Cowl

6. Fasten Off for Seaming

• Ch 1, pull tight. Leave a long tail for seaming.
  

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7. Join Short Ends

• Lay beginning and ending edges flat together with RS facing out.
• With hook or yarn needle and the tail:
  • Sc both sides together along the edge.
  • For the corners: Work 3 sc in each corner for a neat finish.
• Continue sc through both sides until fully joined.
• Fasten off and weave in all ends securely.
  

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Conclusion

This cowl uses a classic and easy waffle stitch, ideal for beginners and quick projects. The two-row repeat produces a lovely squishy texture, and the cowl can be worn doubled up or left loose for style and warmth. No buttons or closures needed!

Pattern Corrections & Tips

Corrections:

• To maintain straight edges, always place your final dc either in the top of the 2nd chain from previous row, or in the top of the first dc as appropriate.
• Be careful to work around the correct posts for your fpdc to maintain the waffle texture.

Tips:

• Measure your work frequently, especially before joining, to ensure desired cowl length.
• Keep your edges tidy by being consistent where you place the last stitch/chain at the end of each row.
• Add tassels or fringe to the seam or corners for a bit of extra flair.
• The waffle stitch also makes for a lovely scarf; simply work to desired length and bind off without joining into a round.