The Elfin Hat

Those of us with textile skills will probably make a New Year's resolution to make better use of our talents. We predict those good intentions will expire somewhere around January 21st. But nevermind – harness those high hopes and, while the holidays are still at hand, embark on a project that excites you. We're taken with The Elfin Hat knitting project from The Purl Bee. Christmas may be over but we're determined to extract every last drop of festive spirit... The hat uses traditional twinned knitting, a technique that uses two strands of yarn, wrapping them around each other as you knit. It gives a dense knit and keeps heads warm and cosy. Purl Soho recommend a combination of alpaca and merino yarns in a contrast colour. To make the hat you will need: 1 skein of Purl Soho's Alpaca Pure, 100% alpaca, main colour (we would choose Heirloom White) 1 skein of Purl Soho's Worsted Twist or Worsted Twist Heather, 100% merino, contrast colour (we love Ochre Yellow and Tabby Gray) A 5mm, UK 8, US #8, 16-inch circular needle A set of 5mm, UK 8, US #8 double pointed needles 3 stitch markers You can find full details and the pattern online here. It can be made for children or a little bit larger for adults so the whole family can look suitably stylish for a winter day out. You can find more ideas at The Purl Bee, their friendly shop, Purl Soho, has a great supply of yardage, yarns and notions and if you're new to making then sign up for one of their classes... In the mean time, here's to hope over experience and Happy knitting Purl Soho, 459 Broome Street, New York, NY 10013