DIY: Knit Alpaca Buttoned Neck Wrap by Nitza Coto

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Nitza Coto designed the Buttoned Neck Wrap in the book called Classic Elite Shawls, Wraps & Scarves. My version created a 76 cm by 15 cm (30 in by 6 in) rectangular scarf with a large 8 cm (3 in) ruffle and two button holes. This means the piece can be worn like a regular scarf or when using its buttons, it folds over and makes a structured collar.

Shed Chetwyn Farms

The yarn is an alpaca DK called Hint of Earl, a fuzzy grey 2-ply from Shed Chetwyn Farms in Prince Edward County, Ontario.  This alpaca farm has the animals grazing at the main entrance for the visitor. There is also a cute little shop in an old chicken coop that features alpaca yarn and various finished products. The setting is beautiful and worth a visit to Prince Edward County. When we visited a few summers ago, we also ate lunch at the Drake Devonshire Inn, which I highly recommend.

The pattern

The scarf pattern has a ruffled border and a twisting cable that runs through its length. There are two buttons placed strategically to give a structural hold at the front of the neck. It sits almost like a bow tie.

Nitza Coto’s buttoned neck wrap is one of three related patterns called “Jewel Tones.” This follows the theme of the book: one pattern, three ways. The two other patterns feature the same cable on a cozy shawlette and a ruffled coat scarf.

I made this buttoned neck wrap with 3.5 mm (US 4) circular needles and the DK weight recommended. Since my knitting is on the looser side, it makes a larger gauge than the pattern outlines. However, since it is a scarf, the finished piece is slightly bigger than the original pattern, which is not a problem. Overall, it makes a cozy and elegant wrap for one’s neck.

For another project using Shed’s alpaca wool, please see Kiku Corner’s own pattern, the Marrakech Hat.