Easy Crochet Sober Granny in a Spiral Cowl Snood – Quick 1 Row Repeat!

Oct 17, 2023 •

Easy Crochet Sober Granny in a Spiral Cowl Snood – Quick 1 Row Repeat!

Have you ever wanted to create something cozy and stylish with your own two hands? I'm Christa, and I'm excited to guide you through making this awesome Sober Granny in a Spiral Cowl, also known as a snood! If you're a beginner or just looking for a relaxing project, this is perfect. It's an easy, one-row repeat that works up quickly. Plus, the spiral design means no annoying joins!

What is a Snood?

So, what exactly is a snood? Simply put, it's a cowl that's large enough to pull up over your head, essentially turning it into a hood. Think of it as a versatile accessory, a hybrid between a cowl and a hoodie. It adds warmth and style, and it’s incredibly practical for those chilly days when you want a little extra coverage. I love how easily it transitions from a neck warmer to a head covering.

Why the Sober Granny In A Spiral Cowl is Perfect for Beginners

What makes this Sober Granny Spiral Cowl such a great project, especially for beginners? Let me tell you, it's all about simplicity and ease!

Easy One-Row Repeat: The entire pattern consists of just one row that you repeat over and over. Once you memorize it (and trust me, you will quickly!), you can practically crochet it in your sleep.
Seamless Spiral: Forget about joining rounds! The continuous spiral construction eliminates that sometimes fiddly step, making the whole process smoother and more enjoyable.
Relaxing Project: This pattern is perfect for crocheting while chatting with friends, binge-watching your favorite shows, or simply unwinding after a long day. It doesn't require intense concentration, so you can really relax and enjoy the process.
Working into Spaces: Instead of struggling to find individual stitches, you'll be working into the chain spaces. This makes the process faster, more forgiving, and easier to see, which is a huge plus for beginners.

Get the Written Pattern and Fingerless Gloves Pattern

Want to follow along with a written pattern? You can find it over on my website at secretyarnery.com. I've also created a pattern for matching fingerless gloves, which can be found in this fingerless gloves pattern. A snood and gloves set would make a fantastic gift!

Materials You'll Need

To get started on your Sober Granny Spiral Cowl, you'll need a few basic materials. Here's a complete list:

Yarn: I used Ice Yarns in a gorgeous terracotta color for the sample. If you are having trouble finding the same yarn, alternative yarn options based on weight and fiber content include a category 5 yarn such as Premier Yarns, or you can shop at http://bit.ly/3Y6Iz3S.
Crochet Hooks:
- A 9mm crochet hook for the main project. You can find one here: https://amzn.to/2MslrYR.
- A larger hook (10mm) for the foundation chain (optional, but recommended).
Stitch Marker: This is essential for keeping track of where you are in the spiral.
Yarn Needle: You'll need this for weaving in the ends later.
Scissors: For cutting your yarn.

Two Ways to Start Your Sober Granny Snood

There are two different ways you can start this project, and I want you to feel empowered to choose the one that best suits your skill level and preferences. The first method involves creating a traditional chain foundation, while the second uses a chainless foundation. Both options will give you a beautiful result, so let's explore them!

Method 1: The Traditional Chain Foundation

If you're comfortable with the traditional chain method, here's how to get started:

Step 1: Chain a Multiple of 4 (or 72): Using your larger hook (10mm recommended), chain 72. It's crucial to use a larger hook for the chain only. This helps maintain consistent tension throughout the project.
Step 2: Single Crochet in Back Loops: Switch to your 9mm hook. Turn the chain and work one single crochet into the back loop of each chain.
Why Use a Larger Hook? This prevents the snood from being too tight on one side. Using a larger hook for the foundation chain ensures that the top and bottom edges have the same amount of stretch.

Both sides of your foundation row will look nice. This creates a clean and finished appearance.

Turning the Chain into a Ring to Start Round 2

When starting, remember to leave a long tail of yarn. When you are ready, join your work into a ring.

Method 2: The Chainless Foundation

If you're feeling a little more adventurous, the chainless foundation is a fantastic option! It creates a beautifully neat and stretchy edge.

Step 1: Slip Knot and Chain Two: Make a slip knot and chain two with your 9mm hook.
Step 2: Working into the First Chain: Insert your hook into the first chain you made, grab the yarn, and bring it back through. Chain one.
Step 3: Create the Single Crochet: This is where the magic happens! Hold the stitch open with your thumb, separating the strands (one strand on top of your thumbnail, two strands underneath your thumb). Wrap the yarn and complete a single crochet.
Step 4: Repeat: Continue this process. Insert your hook into the spot where your thumb was holding the stitch open, grab the yarn, and create a chain one, followed by a single crochet.

Remember, the key to this method is to chain first, then single crochet.

The chainless foundation creates both a neat starting edge and a finished edge simultaneously. It gives your project a professional look right from the beginning.

Video Tutorial for Chainless Foundation

If you would like a more visual explanation, you can check out the video here on youtube.com/secretyarnery for the chainless foundation stitch.

Sizing and Multiples

For this pattern, it's important to work in multiples of 4. The sample I'm using is 72 chains long, which is about 28 inches. Feel free to adjust the length as needed. Just make sure your starting chain remains a multiple of 4.

Joining the Foundation Row

Now it's time to join your foundation row (whether you used the traditional chain or the chainless foundation) into a ring. This sets you up for working in a spiral.

Step 1: Lay Flat and Check for Twists: Make sure your foundation row is lying flat without any twists. This is crucial for a smooth and even cowl.
Step 2: Single Crochet Join: Pick up both ends of the row and work one single crochet into the very first single crochet.
Step 3: Chain Two: Chain two to begin the first round.

Don't worry about any open space underneath the join. We'll close that up later with the yarn tail.

Round 1: Setting Up the Sober Granny Stitch

This first round establishes the beautiful Sober Granny stitch pattern. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Turn Your Work: Turn your work to prevent curling.
Step 2: 3 Double Crochets into the First Stitch: Wrap your yarn and work three double crochets into the first stitch.
Step 3: Skip Three Stitches: Skip three stitches.
Step 4: Single Crochet, Chain 2, 3 Double Crochets (All in One Stitch): Into the fourth stitch, work a single crochet, chain two, and three double crochets. This creates the "block" or "shell" that forms the basis of the Sober Granny stitch.
Step 5: Repeat: Repeat the "skip three, (single crochet, chain 2, 3 double crochets)" sequence around the entire row.

The large holes created by the larger hook are a characteristic of this pattern.

Completing Round 1

To finish the first round, work a single crochet into the chain-two space of the first block. Then, make a block (chain 2 and three double crochets) into the same space.

Round 2: Starting the Spiral

Here's where the spiral magic begins!

Place Stitch Marker: Place a stitch marker into the chain-two space of the current block. This will help you keep track of the beginning of each round.
Work Into Chain-Two Spaces: Find the chain-two space from the previous round, and work a block (single crochet, chain 2, and 3 double crochets) into it.
Repeat: Work another block into the next chain-two space. Keep repeating around and around.

Understanding the Spiral Pattern

Remember, the beauty of this cowl lies in its continuous spiral construction. Each round seamlessly builds upon the previous one, without the need for any joining. This not only makes the project easier but also creates a visually stunning effect.

Round 3 and Beyond: Continuing the Spiral

Continuing the spiral pattern is super simple! Just keep working blocks into each chain-two space from the previous round. That's it!

The simple repeat is: "Single crochet, chain 2, 3 double crochets into each chain-two space." Keep working around and around until you reach the desired height or run out of yarn.

Managing the Stitch Marker

The stitch marker is your friend in this project! Here's how to use it effectively:

Initial Placement: Place the stitch marker at the beginning of each round to mark the starting point.
Following the Line: As you work, a line of stitches will emerge, indicating the beginning of each round.
Adjusting Placement: Periodically move the stitch marker up along this line to accurately mark the beginning of the current round.

Crocheting Until You Almost Run Out Of Yarn

Keep working around and around. Crochet until you almost run out of yarn, or your cowl is about 19 inches tall.

Finishing Off: Creating a Matching Edge

We're now going to learn a finishing technique that creates an edge that mirrors the foundation row in terms of stretch and appearance. This involves working single crochets and chains into the blocks from the final round.

Step-by-Step Finishing Instructions

Here's your detailed guide to the finishing technique:

Step 1: Slip Stitch: Slip stitch into the chain-two space of the last block.
Step 2: Chain Two and Turn: Chain two and turn your work.
Step 3: Single Crochet Sequence: Skip the first stitch, then work one single crochet into each of the next two stitches (the second and third stitches of the block), and one single crochet into the chain-two space. Chain one.
Step 4: Repeat: Repeat the "skip one stitch, single crochet in the next two stitches, single crochet in the chain-two space, chain one" sequence around the entire edge.

Each block gets three single crochets and a chain one.

Completing the Finishing Row

For the last block of the row, work it like the others, skipping the first stitch and completing the single crochet sequence.

Option 1: Slip Stitch Join

Here's the traditional slip stitch join:

Step 1: Insert Hook: Insert your hook into the very first single crochet of the finishing row.
Step 2: Slip Stitch: Yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook.
Step 3: Chain One and Cut Yarn: Chain one, cut the yarn, pull up a loop, and pull the yarn through to secure.
Step 4: Weave in Ends: Weave in the yarn tail.

Option 2: Invisible Join

For a seamless finish, try the invisible join:

Step 1: Cut Yarn: After completing the last single crochet, cut the yarn, leaving a long tail for weaving.
Step 2: Pull Yarn Through: Pull the yarn tail completely through the last stitch.
Step 3: Thread Needle: Thread the yarn tail onto a yarn needle.
Step 4: Mimic First Stitch: Insert the needle into the same stitch as the first single crochet of the finishing row (going backwards if using a sharp needle). Pull the yarn through, keeping an eye on where the tail is coming from.
Step 5: Go Back Down: Insert the needle into the base of the last stitch you made, pulling the yarn through.
Step 6: Adjust: Adjust the tension to make the join look like a regular stitch.

The invisible join creates a seamless finish without a noticeable lump.

Weaving in the Ends

Weave in all yarn tails with a yarn needle. Weave the tail through several stitches on the wrong side of the work, following the direction of the stitches. Secure the tail by weaving it back in the opposite direction and trim any excess yarn.

Joining The First Tail

You can use the remaining first tail to join any large hole made at the first row. Insert the needle back into the closest stitch, and then go back down into a stitch. Adjust the tension to make the join look like a regular stitch.

Final Touches and Finishing Up

Weaving in all ends carefully ensures a clean and professional finish. Congratulations on completing your Sober Granny Spiral Cowl!

If you are looking for another easy crochet pattern you're in the right place!

Share Your Projects!

I'd love to see your finished cowls! Share photos on social media and tag me:

Instagram: @secretyarnery
Facebook: The Secret Yarnery
Crochet Group: The Secret Yarnery Crochet Community

I'm excited to see your yarn choices and finished projects!

Subscribe for More Crochet Fun!

Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more quick and easy crochet tutorials! You can subscribe here: https://bit.ly/3VvXdCd. Also make sure to look at the sober granny patterns available.

Stay Hooked!

Thanks so much for hooking along!

Crochet Must Haves

Here are the materials I used for this project, and where you can get them:

All Crochet Patterns

Here is a link to all of the crochet patterns available here at the Secret Yarnery!

Left Handed?

FAQs

1. What type of yarn is best for the Sober Granny Spiral Cowl?

The pattern works best with category 5 bulky yarn. You can use yarn like Ice Yarns, Premier Yarns, or any similar alternatives. Choose a yarn with a soft texture to make the cowl cozy and comfortable.

2. How do I know what size my cowl should be?

The foundation chain should be a multiple of 4. For a standard size, start with 72 chains, which results in about 28 inches in circumference. You can adjust the chain length depending on how snug or loose you want the cowl.

3. Can beginners try the chainless foundation method?

The chainless foundation may feel tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. If you're new to it, watch the video tutorial for visual guidance or opt for the traditional chain foundation method.

4. What does “working into chain spaces” mean?

Instead of inserting your hook into individual stitches, you’ll be crocheting into the larger spaces created by the chain-2 segments in the pattern. This makes it beginner-friendly and speeds up the process.

5. What’s the purpose of the stitch marker?

The stitch marker helps you track where your spiral begins and ends. Place it in the chain-2 space of the first block for each round, moving it up as you progress, to avoid losing your place.

6. Can I make the cowl smaller or larger?

Yes! Simply adjust your foundation chain in multiples of 4. A shorter chain results in a smaller cowl, and a longer chain gives you more circumference.

7. Can I use a smaller or larger crochet hook?

You can adjust the hook size to achieve different textures. A larger hook creates a looser, more open weave, while a smaller hook produces a tighter fabric. Make sure your foundation chain doesn’t become too tight by using a larger hook for that step.

8. How do I close the opening at the start of the spiral?

Use the yarn tail from your starting chain to stitch the opening closed. Thread the tail onto a yarn needle and sew the hole neatly for a seamless finish.

9. What’s the difference between the slip stitch and invisible join?

Slip Stitch Join: Quick and easy but leaves a noticeable seam.
Invisible Join: A seamless method that mimics a natural stitch, creating a more polished edge.

10. How long does it take to complete the Spiral Cowl?

This depends on your crochet speed, but most crocheters can finish this project within a few hours to a couple of evenings. The simple one-row repeat makes it a relaxing and quick project.

Christa Patel is the creative mind behind The Secret Yarnery, a vibrant space for crocheters of all levels. With years of experience in crochet design, she specializes in creating simple, easy-to-follow patterns that inspire makers to craft beautiful and functional pieces. Christa's passion lies in introducing beginners to the joy of crochet while also challenging more seasoned crafters with innovative designs.

Through her YouTube tutorials and blog, Christa has guided thousands of enthusiastic crocheters with clear instructions and friendly tips. Known for her love of practical and stylish accessories, she creates patterns that balance creativity with ease.

When Christa isn't crocheting, you'll find her experimenting with yarn, writing patterns, or engaging with her amazing crochet community online. Connect with Christa to share your projects or explore her latest designs:

Website: The Secret Yarnery
YouTube: The Secret Yarnery
Instagram: @secretyarnery
Facebook: The Secret Yarnery Community

Christa's goal is to make crochet accessible and enjoyable for everyone. She believes in the transformative power of handmade creations and hopes to inspire you to start your next project with confidence!

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Easy Crochet Sober Granny in a Spiral Cowl Snood – Quick 1 Row Repeat!