February beret complete.

To match my Lemon Myrtle scarf, I knitted up this beret in the same Rooster Almerino DK yarn. The pattern is called February Beret and can be found at Sock Pixie for free.

The pattern is knitted initially on DPN's, as you need to make an icord. Then a circular needle is used, changing to DPN's when needed.

I would not recommend this pattern for the beginning knitter, as the process of grafting well over 100 stitches onto the icord I found really tricky (this was only my second knitting project). Once the stitches are on and a few rows have been stitched, the whole process becomes much more enjoyable, especially when the beautiful pattern begins to emerge.

And, just to show you what a cozy hat this is to wear in winter, here is a terribly grainy pic from my phone...

Details can be found at my Ravelry account.

Sam xox

February Beret progress.

Ironic really that I am knitting the February Beret in February. I am only 1 inch away from finishing the gull lace pattern, then it is on to some basic garter stitching to finish. I am thrilled with how it is looking and am wishing summer away too quickly in order to be able to wear this.

I am using the circular needles and yarn I bought recently from The Yarn Cafe. The yarn is deliciously soft on my hands and perfect for this pattern. I also indulged in some quality circular needles that promised not to twist - and they haven't once!

To begin this pattern you have to knit up an icord. No, it's not some fancy stitch designed by Apple. I tried to 'read' how to knit an icord but I couldn't quite wrap my brain around it, so I resorted to Plan B (Youtube). This video demonstrates how to knit an icord perfectly.

I have been reflecting a bit on why I have taken to knitting so quickly and intensely in the last month, and left sewing on the back burner for a bit. I am known to my friends to be someone who takes to things quickly and strongly, but this is a little different. Life has been so very stressful of late and I feel that things are beginning to get on top of me. Homesickness is getting to me, which would be fine on its own, but it is the latest in a long series of stressors. I feel like my tank is running on empty and I can't be the perfect wife/friend/worker that I want to be. I guess none of us are perfect really. Knitting is different to sewing. It has brought me a sense of calm and quiet that I guess only a ball of wool and some needles can do.

If you want to knit one of these berets for yourself, you can find the pattern for free here (you don't need a Ravelry account to access it).

Sam xox