"A fickle heart is the only constant in this world."
-- Diana Wynne Jones,
Howl's Moving Castle
Change of Heart is a cowl which changes directions and switches up stitch patterns faster than you can say, "Baby, it's cold outside!" Fickle in that each row, despite having a modest stitch count, comprises four different sections. Yet constant because it's worked long ways, the staggered but frequent pattern repeats establishing a sense of rhythm as they become increasingly familiar. Each row is relatively short and to the point so you can zip back and forth for as long as you like, then join the finished ends together to form a continuous loop.
The distinct columns vary in width and complexity, yet all play nice and get along swimmingly. Narrow I-cord edging gives way to a swath of garter stitch which is interrupted by a basic rope cable then finished off with a bit of lace.
This veritable stitch sampler is worked up in fingering weight wool and is blocked somewhat aggressively in order to show off your handiwork to its best advantage. At the specified length you have the option of wearing it long or wrapping it twice -- it depends on the weather and your mood. Either way this cowl achieves a beautiful balance of delicate detail and fashionable function.
Recommended needle size [always use a needle
size that gives you the gauge
listed below -- every knitter's
gauge is unique] 1 set US #4/3.5mm straight needles OR 24-inch US #4/3.5mm circular needle
Row 2 [RS]: Work Lace Edging Row 2, sm, work Rope Cable Row 2, sm, work Garter Stitch, sm, work I-cord Edging Row 2.
Row 3 [WS]: Work I-cord Edging Row 1, sm, work Garter Stitch, sm, work Rope Cable Row 3, sm, work Lace Edging Row 3.
These 2 rows establish the pattern.
Cont in this manner until work measures 44 inches (or desired length], ending on BOTH Row 14 of the Lace Edging and a Row 8 of the Rope Cable.
BO all sts in pattern.
FINISHING
Block the piece to required measurements, stretching the garter stitch and pinning the lace border to create a zigzag edge.
When dry, use mattress stitch to seam cast-on and bind-off edges together. Weave in loose ends with yarn needle.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Justyna is a full-time mother, former teacher and a knitwear fanatic. She learned her first stitches from her mom when she was a teenager, but she gave up knitting quickly afterwards. Having her first baby brought back her passion with great impact and this time she also started designing knitwear for adults and children. She lives with her husband, kids and two cats in Poland.
Her patterns can be found on Ravelry on the Lete's Knits designer page, or on her website Lete's Knits.
Lace Edging [multiple of 13 sts] 
