I finally did it! I finally finished my first actually-completely-written-and-tested-and-photographed pattern!
I have been making my own designs for some time, but this has mostly consisted of “winging it” and/or taking careful notes on the back of a receipt and promptly losing it. This time, I wrote it down, made multiple versions of this hat until I got it just right, and then made multiple more to make sure my instructions were correct. (Note to everyone I know: You are all getting berets for Christmas. Deal with it.)
A casual, sophisticated beret, “Colette” is a quick & simple knit that highlights alpaca’s lush texture and perfect drape. “Colette” would be a perfect gift for that friend who always seems to be effortlessly chic–but be warned! If you’re like me, you’ll need to make another for yourself!
This pattern was designed to use Arrow Acres Farm Yarn, a 100% alpaca worsted weight yarn from a farm local to my area. If you don’t have a local alpaca farm (check online–you might!), Berroco Ultra Alpaca makes a fine substitute.
Finally, don’t be scared off by the tubular cast-on! You’ll find a link to an excellent video tutorial in the pattern, and once you get the hang of the rhythm, it’s no more difficult than a standard long-tail cast-on. But it’s so much stretchier, and gives a much more finished-looking edge!
Fine print: Your purchase of these patterns constitutes your agreement to use them only for personal, non-profit use without specific written permission from the designer. Items made from these patterns may not be sold, nor may the patterns themselves be copied, sold, or distributed in any way. You may print one copy for personal use but may not print multiples to distribute, nor may you share the digital file with others.
The pattern is available for free (fair, I think, because it’s a simple design, my first published one, and it wasn’t professionally tech-edited.) It’s available on Ravelry HERE. Enjoy!
And feel free to contact me with questions/comments/complaints at franklinfiber [at] gmail [dot] com.
franklin fiber 