Category: Blitherings

Eyelet Rib Beret – Updated and Expanded!

At last, an updated version of the original Eyelet Rib Beret! A few changes and additions have been done.  First, stitch count and directions for the original pattern have been updated, with advice to make the ribbing on smaller needles if it seems too big for your head.  A second beret has been added, with new shaping to create a traditionally shaped beret, with decreases to allow for a more tidy fit if worn high on the head – maybe more like a tam, really.  Thirdly, a slouch version of the traditional beret is included.  And, hopefully, all mistakes have been caught – but I admit, I had a hard time reading my notes, and there could be errors.  Ah, well.  It’s still for free!

The original pattern used Lamb’s Pride by Brown Sheep, which is a rather heavy yarn.  The new versions used Paton’s Classic Wool in Aran Tweed, and is knitted on size 6 and 7 needles.  Truthfully, I like this version a lot better – not as baggy – but some people like the bagginess of the original beret, so I have kept it, along with these newer versions, all in the same pattern, which is now 7 pages instead of two.  You may go to the Patterns page to download it.

Merry Christmas!

Eyelet Rib Beret, Revisited

A lot of people have downloaded the eyelet rib beret, and some have experienced some problems with it being much, much too big, especially in the ribbing area of the brim.  Even though this beret is designed to be huge – for those of us with “big hair” – others seem to like the idea of a less humungous hat!  Given that, I thought I would re-do the pattern a bit for worsted weight wool and slightly different shaping, as well as directions for a less baggy beret.  Look for it in the next few days.

A Hat Named Priska on a Man Named Josh!

Just in time for Christmas and the cold!

Priska is knit using US 6 and 9 needles (4.25 and 5.5 mm) and less than one skein each of Cascade 220 worsted in two colors.  The hat band is designed to fit snugly, yet stretch.  This is possible because it is all stockinette, with stranded colors.  The hem is long and doubled over, creating a very thick, warm ear covering, as well as one which is snug enough, in theory, to allow activities without losing it.

My husband, Josh, is modeling the hat; this one is the “medium” size.  This hat fits me quite well, so the medium made be made for most adults.  The small will probably fit an older child, and the large for anyone with a big head, or for anyone who does not want a tight-fitting head band.

This hat can be knit up quickly by an experienced knitter, so it would be perfect for a last-minute gift.  Even the fairly new knitter, familiar with stranded knitting techniques, should not be too challenged by this pattern.

I designed this hat for my husband’s grandmother, Priscilla, with her bright blue eyes in mind.  Merry Christmas to Priska, and to all of you as well!