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Flutter By Hat, Interweave Crochet
Accessories 2011
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As crocheters, we make a lot of hats. Beanies, cloches, berets, stocking caps, tams, hoods, and hats with earflaps all make fashionable accessories. They also make wonderful gifts and donations. Many crocheted hat patterns are fun, simple projects that can be completed in a short amount of time, and the one-size-fits-many pattern sizing is invaluable when you don't know the exact clothing size of the intended recipient.
Because they are small, hats are also a great project with which to learn a new technique. They provide more latitude in gauge and stitch uniformity that a larger project such as a cardigan. You can find hat patterns that incorporate cables, tapestry crochet, Tunisian crochet in the round, lace, colorwork, and much more. And because of this broad range of hat styles, you will never be bored, whether you are a beginning crocheter or are looking for a new and challenging project.
Whether you are looking for a vintage design or a simple crocheted hat, Crochet Me has a pattern to fit your personality.
Crochet a Circle
The circle will become the top of the hat. Here are the ground rules:
1 |The number of stitches in the first round of the circle is the number of stitches you should increase in each subsequent round. So, if you start with six single crochet stitches in the first round, you should increase by six single crochet stitches in each of the following rounds. In Round 2, you would have twelve single crochets. In Round 3, you would have eighteen single crochets. And so on. By Round 10, you'll have sixty stitches.
2 | The taller the stitch, the more stitches there should be in the first round. In most cases you should start with six single crochets in the first round, or eight half double crochets, or twelve double crochets. Sometimes, you'll break this rule. If the yarn is really bulky, use fewer stitches; if it's a fi ne yarn, use more stitches. But, no matter how many stitches you start with, Rule 1 holds: Increase by the number of stitches you start with.
3 | The front always faces. Don't turn the work. Some hat patterns instruct you to turn, in which case you should. But for this formula, don't turn. For your practice swatch, use lightcolored, smooth, worsted-weight yarn.
Source: Interweave Crochet Accessories 2010
Teach Someone You Know to Crochet A Hat
It is amazing how many friends, family members, and coworkers have expressed a desire to learn to crochet and just need a willing teacher and a few fun and easy patterns to become passionate crocheters. I'm sure you have had a friend or two express a desire to learn the art of crochet as she (or he) admires your latest project.
My advice: Start with easy and fun projects such as hats, scarves, or bags. Hip to Crochet or Getting Started Crochet, both by Judith L. Swartz, are both a great place to start. The stitch illustrations and explanations will help visualize the construction of the stitches and the quick, colorful projects walk the novice crocheter through the fundamentals without being boring.
Pattern Source: Hip to Crochet 23 Contemporary Projects for Today's Crocheter by Judith Swartz, Interweave Press, 2004
Create Your Own Crocheted Hat Pattern
Crocheted hats are my go-to project. I make at least 5 hats for every other project I manage to complete. They make incredible presents that recipients of all ages love; there are an infinite variety of patterns; and they are fast. Consequently, I am always looking for new hat ideas. Whenever I see a new stitch pattern my first thought is, "What would that look like as a hat."
However incorporating a new stitch pattern into a hat can seem like a daunting challenge. You have to take into account the shaping at the crown and the accompanying math that invariably accompanies shaping. But it's really much simpler than it appears. Robyn Chachula cleverly walks through the steps in her new video, Design Your Own Crocheted Hat.
Pattern Source: Design Your Own Crocheted Hat with Robyn Chachula, Interweave Press, 2011
Donate to a Charity
Craftivism, or crafting for charity, is an integral part of crochet for many people. I am so inspired by the stories you share on Crochet Me, and this year, I want give craftivism a larger role in my crochet goals. I think I'll start with hats. The Hat Squared (at right) makes a great easy pattern. The fact that it is worked in a bulky yarn also means I can crochet one of these warm hats in an evening. If you are aiming for this goal, and are worried about fitting it into the rush of life, consider joining or creating a crochet group. We are stronger together.
Pattern Source: Interweave Presents Crocheted Gifts: Irresistible Projects to Make & Give by Kim Werker, Interweave Press, 2009
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Featured Product: Design Your Own Crocheted Hat with Robyn Chachula
DVD Workshop
Designer and author Robyn Chachula walks you through the process of designing your own crocheted hat, whether simple or complex in design. You'll start by choosing the right yarn for your project, pick out a stitch pattern that is easy to shape, and explore hat fashions, from berets to caps, newsboy brims, slouchy hats, and even a floppy sunhat. No matter what your style, Robyn's guide to crocheting one-of-a-kind hats will improve your crochet design skills and leave you with original accessories to cap off your wardrobe.
PLUS, included with this DVD is a worksheet Robyn uses for her crochet classes that makes designing even easier! And, Robyn has also included two of her popular hat patterns, the Crochet Bobble Beret and Street Smart Hat, both downloadable from this DVD.
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Design Your Own
Crocheted Hat
with Robyn Chachula |
Order the DVD today! Can't wait to start designing your own hats? This workshop is also available as an instant video download!
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