The design of this fair-isle cowl was inspired by the latticework carving on the walls of the Rani Ki Vav (Queen’s Stepwell) in Gujarat, India. These carvings reference traditional local double Ikat textile designs used for ceremonial saris (Patola). This particular Stepwell is one of the best preserved and one of thousands that run the length of the Silk Road – each about 30 Km apart – once providing a rest stop and water for weary travelers and their camels.

Calling for just one divided ball of our Superwash Shaniko Worsted, the colors of the slow gradient play against each other and highlight the design. Bobbles add further whimsy to this intermediate level cowl. This would be a good project for someone dipping their toe into fair-isle knitting!