This listing is for a paper printout. Click here to go to Ravelry to purchase a pdf download instead.

The pattern price includes a £3 donation that will be divided between UK charity Refuge, that supports women and children suffering domestic violence, and Nomi Network who work internationally to end human trafficking by creating pathways to safe employment, and by empowering women and girls to break cycles of slavery in their families and communities. If you click on the links you will reach their websites where you can read more about their work.

This simple but striking cowl takes its inspiration from the #BreakTheBias pose, chosen for International Women’s Day 2022. The textured borders and cross motif are created using slipped stitches, meaning that only one colour is ever in use at a time. There no rounds involving stranded colourwork!

The pattern can be knitted in the round or knitted flat, using either charts or written instructions, to enable as many knitters as possible to make their own visible statement of support to break the bias and create a gender equal world.

To make this cowl you will need:

• DK yarn: 50g in each of your three colours.

• 4mm needles: either straight needles if you want to knit the cowl flat, or 40–50cm circular needles to make the cowl in the round.

• Stitch marker.

• Tapestry needle to weave in ends.

Pick any colours you like but why not take the project one step further by choosing colours that represent a person or organisation that has helped make the world a more equal place? I have taken my colours from the covers of books written by inspiring women but you could use photographs, logos, album covers, artworks … the list is limitless!

The finished cowl is approximately 56cm in circumference x 20cm deep.