This pattern was originally published as Northwest Wools’ contribution to the 2026 Rose City Yarn Crawl, March 5-8, 2026 in Portland, Oregon. This pattern is also available for download as part of the 2026 Pattern Collection: Mythical Creatures.

While Medusa’s head inspires fear, her tail is much safer -- and more beautiful -- to look at. You can sport a scaly look of your own with this fun-to-crochet cowl! The Medusa Cowl is composed of two panels: one features shell stitch, and the other uses alligator stitch to mimic Medusa’s scales.

Yarn
Schoppel-Wolle Zauberball Starke 6, 75% superwash wool, 25% nylon, 437 yds; colorway is #2204, Green Week

Hooks
4.5mm/size 7 crochet hook

Gauge
Shell panel: 2½ shells wide by 6½ shells tall = 4 inches; Alligator panel: 5 scales wide by 8 scales tall = 4 inches

Notions
locking stitch markers

Finished Measurements
Circumference = 23”, Length = 11” tall, measured at point of alligator panel

Skill Level
Advanced Beginner