Hi,
If the gauge says a size 9 then increase 10 1/2 needles are used but for to get gauge it takes a size 15 needle. Will the cowl still come out? I seem to always go much bigger for gauge in general but not by this much.
You need a sz. 15 needle and the pattern calls for sz. 9? How tight are you knitting? Are you using the right yarn for the pattern? Can you link to the pattern and what yarn are you using?