This project is a gentle introduction to brioche intarsia in the round. The zigzag motif in this cowl reminds me of late winter when the ice on lakes and ponds starts to thaw and crack.

The pattern uses simple brioche increases and decreases alongside the intarsia to shape the flow of color through the cowl. If you already know 2-color brioche, you may find the intarsia color changes in brioche stitch to be easier than they are in stockinette stitch! The stitch pattern is simple and easy to memorize so you can focus on the intarsia technique.

Videos of each increase and decrease used in this pattern are available on YouTube.

If you haven’t tried any brioche stitch before, you may want to try a simple project first to learn the terminology.

Finished Size: 22.5”, 26”, 30” (57, 66, 76 cm) circumference and 15” (38 cm) tall. Shown in smallest size.
Yarn: MollyGirl Yarn Rock Star DK, 270 yards (247 m) per 100g; 100% merino wool.
Light Color 1: 1 skein (55, 60, 65g used) Cold as Ice
Light Color 2: 1 skein (15, 15, 15g used) Pour Some Sugar On Me
Dark Color : 1 skein (70, 80, 90g used) Anything For You
Needles: Size 5 (3.75 mm) 20” circular needles or size needed to obtain gauge.
Gauge: 18 sts x 30 rows = 4 x 4” (10 x 10 cm) square in brioche stitch.
Materials: Stitch marker, crochet hook, steamer and a blocking surface.