THE YARN
As I mentioned in previous posts, I love getting my yarn from KnitPicks. They’re ethical and inexpensive. There are lots of other companies I’d love to get yarn from, but they’re usually too costly. KnitPicks is great because they’re the best of both worlds! I use this worsted wool yarn in Garnet Heather. It’s a burgundy with some shade definition. In the future, I think I’d rather make this hat (and other hats) in a cotton as wool can sometimes get itchy.
THE PATTERN
I used this pattern from Knit Picks. I bought their whole “Woodsmoke” collection of patterns. I was really drawn to the collection after working with their Celtic collection. This collection is a bit more updated and already I’m loving all the patterns in it!
- This hat knit up really easily. It took me no time at all! Once I got the pattern down, it was pretty easy to go off of memory. The only thing that gets a little muddied is that there is no difference between an “Adult Small” and an “Adult Medium”.
- I started knitting this hat with a simple cast-on. However, I felt like that was going to be too loose. So, I re-did the cast-on using the 1×1 tubular method. It came out much, much better.
- This hat is bigger than what I thought it was going to be. There’s definitely some space in the back of it. If you like a tighter fit, do the child’s size. If you have lots and lots of hair or a larger size head, I’d say it’s safe to stay with the Adult Small/Medium.
FINAL NOTES
Are you satisfied with the outcome? Josh loves his hat. I would’ve love for a tighter fit and not so much space in the back, but all-in-all, I’d make it again.
Would you recommend this pattern? I think I would. Just take into consideration my notes on the cast-on. I really think a tubular cast-on is your cleanest and best bet.
How long did this take you? You guys, this took me 24 hours! Not even kidding! I’d say it took me about 4-6 hours of knitting, but it was done in a heartbeat!
What skill level is required? I think this is beginner-intermediate. If you’ve never worked cables before, this can be a great starter hat!
Any other notes? I’m really looking forward to trying out some of the other patterns in the “Woodsmoke” collection. Be on the look out for them! On a completely random side note, I’m probably going to sew the Gryffindor crest onto this hat. Because, let’s face it, you’re not a total nerd until you knit AND add Harry Potter into the mix (like I’ve already shamelessly done here).