A beret

Readers will be keenly awaiting an update to my last post where I announced plans to knit one or more berets. The first one is done, as modelled in the image by my old friend Freddo Frog.

I made the classic silhouette version of the Best Beret pattern, using 10-ply yarn from Bellevue Park Wool, in the colour they call blacksmith.

For the initial i-cord which forms the band, I used a total of 70 stitches on 5 mm needles. By the pattern this would fit someone with a big head, however I do not have a big head (I wear an XS motorcycle helmet). In fact the hat is still pretty tight - not uncomfortable, but tight enough to leave a line on my forehead if I wear it low enough.

You can't see in the photo, but I finished it with a double stalk on top. I am not inclined to whimsy generally, but this was the more whimsical option.

I am really happy with it. It's surprisingly warm even though it doesn't cover my ears. And it sits very nicely and beret-like.

Now I am knitting the dramatic silhouette version using the more colourful yarn that I bought at the sheep show. I think I have probably made the band a bit tight again, so I am thinking I might add some extra stitches when I weave all the ends in, or even add a little bit of elastic.

(If you have known me for a very, very long time you are probably happy to know that Freddo is still going strong and now modelling berets.)