Meet Margo, our cozy textured back loop crochet cowl made with slightly stretchy yarn for a flattering, comfortable fit.
The combination of half double and double crochet stitches worked in the back loop creates a lovely textured fabric that drapes beautifully.
Quick to make and perfect for layering, this cowl is ideal for chilly mornings or as a stylish handmade gift.
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Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Pattern
- Project Snapshot
- Materials Needed
- Yarn and Hook Information
- Stitches and Abbreviations - US Terms
- Gauge
- Emily's Notes
- Finished Size
- ⭐ Want more crochet projects like this? ⭐
- Instructions
- Crochet Tips, Yarn Choices, and Color Inspiration
- When To Use This Type Of Project
- FAQ
- More Crafts You Might Like To Try
- More Easy Patterns For You To Try
- Stay Connected
There's something irresistible about a crochet accessory that combines texture, stretch, and style - and the Margo textured back loop crochet cowl delivers on all three.
A back loop crochet cowl is a textured neck accessory made by working stitches into the back loop only, creating a ribbed or ridged effect. These cowls are typically quick to make and focus on texture, stretch, and warmth rather than complex shaping.
Worked in a slightly stretchy yarn, this cowl hugs the neck gently without feeling tight, making it perfect for everyday wear, layering over jackets, or keeping cozy on crisp days.
Even though it uses simple stitches, the repeating pattern is simple and relaxing, making it accessible for beginners while still appealing to experienced crocheters looking for a quick, satisfying project.
Margo is also highly customizable. You can choose soft, neutral yarns for a versatile wardrobe staple or vibrant, bold colors for a statement accessory.
The slightly stretchy yarn ensures a flattering drape, while the back loop texture adds interest without complicated stitch work.
By the time you finish, you'll have a stylish, cozy cowl that's both functional and chic, perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself.
For similar quick crochet gifts you can make in a weekend, try these chunky fingerless crochet gloves or this mesh crochet tote bag for a slightly different type of make.
Why You'll Love This Pattern
- Cozy, stretchy fit thanks to slightly elastic yarn
- Beautiful texture from alternating half double and double crochet stitches
- Back loop technique creates a flattering ribbed drape
- Quick to make with a simple repeating stitch pattern
- Beginner-friendly but satisfying for advanced crocheters
- Customizable in color and length to suit your style
Project Snapshot
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Time Needed: A great weekend crochet project.
Construction: Worked in rows and joined
Best For: Winter wear, quick accessories, gifts
Notes: Back loop stitching creates natural stretch and texture
Materials Needed
Yarn
Bulky, chunky weight (#5 worsted weight) acrylic with about 9 Wraps Per Inch (WPI)*
You will need about 10 ounces (300 grams) of yarn and 215 yards (200 metres).
Hook
- 10 mm (N/15) hook
Other
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Stitch marker (optional)
*Wraps per inch (WPI) - this is a measure of yarn thickness. To measure WPI, count how many times the yarn wraps around a ruler in one inch. There are more wraps for thinner yarn and fewer wraps for thicker yarn.
Yarn and Hook Information
The yarn we used for this crochet cowl is acrylic. It has a slight stretch to the yarn.
This crochet cowl can also be made with non-stretchy acrylic yarn of the same weight.
Stitches and Abbreviations - US Terms
- Ch - Chain
- Dc - Double Crochet
- Blo - Back of loop
- Sc - Single Crochet
- FO - Fasten Off
- [ ] - At the end of each row refers to the stitch count for that row.
Gauge
4 inches X 4 inches (10 cm x 10cm) = 8 rows and 14 stitches
Emily's Notes
Back loop work is one of the easiest ways to add texture without changing stitch complexity. It also teaches you how stitch placement affects fabric behavior, especially stretch and drape, which is useful for wearables.
Finished Size
The finished crochet cowl is about 14 inches x 11.5 inches (35 cm x 30 cm).
You can adjust the finished size of the cowl by adding or subtracting the amount of rows and starting chain.
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Copyright Notice
This pattern and its contents are protected by copyright law. It may not be copied, altered, redistributed, resold, translated, or used to produce photo or video tutorials in any format, either in whole or in part.
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Instructions
Foundation: Ch 30
Row 1: Dc into 3rd st from hook and in each stitch across the row. Turn. Ch2 [28 sts].
Row 2: dc blo into 1st st from hook and in each st across the row, turn, ch2. [28 sts].
Row 3: HDC blo into 1st st from hook and in each st across the row, turn, ch2. [28 sts].
Row 4 - 56: Repeat rows 1, 2, and 3 in order, ending on a row 2, or until you reached your desired length. We made ours to about 27 inches (70 cm) long.
Edging: Do not turn, SC in ea st down along the long edge. FO, Repeat for other long edge. FO. Weave in any ends.
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Joining the cowl
Arrange the cowl to sit folded as shown, matching the edges and having the right side facing out.
Using a darning needle, stitch the cowl together on both the bottom left and bottom right edges. FO. Completed cowl.
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Crochet Tips, Yarn Choices, and Color Inspiration
- Slightly stretchy yarn gives Margo a comfortable, forgiving fit; blends with acrylic, cotton, or wool are all great options.
- Soft neutrals or pastels create a versatile accessory, while jewel tones make a bold statement.
- Adjust hook size for a snugger or looser drape, depending on your preference.
- The ribbed back loop texture looks especially striking in solid or tonal yarns.
When To Use This Type Of Project
This is a great choice when you want a wearable project that feels interesting but not complicated. It works well for winter crafting, quick gifts, or relaxed weekend projects.
FAQ
Yes! Simply add more repeats for width or more rows for length until it reaches your desired size.
Blocking is optional, but it can help even out stitches and enhance the drape if you want.
Absolutely! Just check your gauge and adjust the hook size to maintain the desired fit.
Yes. The back loop half double and double crochet stitches are easy to learn, and the repeating pattern makes it simple to follow.
After some more easy crochet projects to pass the time?
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