Durnovaria by Fiona Hamilton-MacLaren

Durnovaria

Crochet
May 2026
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
26 stitches and 32 rows = 4 inches
in mosaic pattern after light blocking
3.5 mm (E)
328 - 383 yards (300 - 350 m)
Circumference of 61 cm / 24 ½” and a depth of 12 cm / 4 ¾”
both US and UK
English
This pattern is available for £5.00 GBP buy it now

Inspired by Roman mosaics, this pattern carries the Latin name for the town of Dorchester, where beautiful examples of mosaics have been found. Use the inset mosaic crochet technique to create a cowl with a striking repeating lozenge pattern. This is a great pattern for practising mosaic crochet as it has a short repeating motif. You can adapt the width, length and borders to your preference.

Yarn:
MC: 50 g 4-ply weight yarn, 400 m / 437 yds per 100 g
CC: 25 g 4-ply weight yarn, 400 m / 437 yds per 100 g
Shown in: West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4 ply; 4 ply; 75% wool, 25% nylon; 400 m / 437 yds per 100 g; colourway – MC Pennyroyal, CC Amethyst.

Hook: 3.5 mm / E-4 crochet hook, or size to achieve gauge.

Notions: Tapestry needle for sewing up and weaving in ends.

Skills: Foundation chain, double/single crochet, chain stitch, mosaic treble/double, mosaic crochet techniques. Optional edging - front post stitches, back post stitches, half treble/double.

Gauge: 26 stitches and 32 rows over 10 cm / 4” in mosaic pattern after light blocking. Gauge is not critical for this pattern, however, different gauges will affect finished measurements and yarn requirements.

Sizing: The cowl has a circumference of 61 cm / 24 ½” and a depth of 12 cm / 4 ¾”. The circumference and width can be adjusted.