19 February 2011

pattern: quinny hat

Presenting my version of Q's hat..... photo and pattern
please excuse the state of my hair


What you will need:
  • US 9 (5.5mm) and US 10 (6.0mm) circulars, 40" for magic loop (dpns, if you require them. I didn't use them.)
  • About 70-80 yards (64-73m) of bulky weight yarn; I used Cascade Eco +
  • 5 stitch markers (one being a different color to denote beginning of round)
  • Button OR crochet hook (F) and some leftover yard from hat.
Directions:
Using the size 9 needles, cast on 72 stitches. Work in back and forth in garter stitch for a total of 8 rows.
I included a couple short rows at the cast-on tail edge to create a bit of a flair in the tab, but I think it was mostly superficial and not necessary. For those interested, after working rows 2 and 6, knit 5 sts w&t, work to end of row. Pick up wrap during next row (3 &7)

Next round: Bind off 6 sts. Switch to size 10 needles, and begin working in rib pattern as follows: (k1tbl, p1) around. 

Place marker and join to work in the round. Continue working in rib pattern until the piece measures 5"
This length just fits my small noggin, but I would recommend for those with larger noggins (bigger brains!) to add some length. It wouldn't hurt to go up to about 6".

Next round: (k1tbl, p1) 6 times, k1tbl, place marker, p1, place marker, (k1tbl, p1) 9 times, k1tbl, place marker, (p1, k1tbl) 13 times, p1, place marker, (k1tbl, p1) 3 times

Decrease round: Continuing in rib pattern, work to 2 sts before marker, k2tog, sm,  p1, sm, ssk, work to next marker, sm, ssk, work to 2 sts before last marker, k2tog, sm, work to end of round.

Work decrease round every round for a total of 12 rounds.

For the last round, continuing in pattern, work to 3 stitches before marker, k3tog, sm, p1, sm, sssk, work to end of round.

Cut yarn, pull through the remaining 14sts, and weave in ends!


Last step is to sew the tab down. You may do this using a large button or how I did it. I'll admit my method was a little unorthodox. 

Using the crochet hook and leftover yarn, chain 5 sts. Slip stitch to join in the round.
 Work single crochet, all the way around until you are unable to fit any more on circle. Slip stitch to join to first sc. Cut yarn and weave in ends.

So, with this little circle of crochet, simply place tab and circle where desired and using a satin stitch, stitch circle into place. Tie ends and you are done! 

There's my odd little trick to make a fake yarny button.

Final step: Wear your hat and get your Gleek on! (Finn Hudson required. nom.)

18 February 2011

weekend project.

In addition my school projects, I will be trying to recreate this hat that was on the new episode of Glee this week.


Boom. Super awesome pixie hat. Knitting will commence after my exam at 4:10pm.

I hope to share the result with you by Sunday! Have a great weekend :o)

11 February 2011

KP independent designer program

I didn't say anything until I knew for certain, but my pattern was chosen to be included in Knit Picks' Independent Designer Program!
 
You can find it on their website here.


I actually found out a few weeks ago, but decided to wait until the page was up on their website to share. I am just so honored, because I think Knit Picks is a truly fabulous company.

Above is the second Snowstorm. This one is knit up using KP Merino Style in Hollyberry and Fog.

Anyway, just wanted to share :o) I have a couple other FOs that I will share soon. Now I'm off to the gym (keeping up with new year's resolutions in February, for the win!) and I haven't smoked for 41 days! Also, I gave up meat for Lent. No bacon for me. Sorry pizza.

Hope all is well in your neck of the woods. Good day!