Pattern Update: Snaky Cables Hat

I've always wanted to revisit one of my super early designs, the Snaky Cables Hat, which is now available for free here on Ravelry. I think it was the second thing I've ever designed (or maybe the third?) and I have learned so much between now and then. Even though it's a free pattern, it's still a reflection of my work, and I wanted to make sure it was the best it could be.

So, when I recently got the chance to try out a skein of a new bulky weight yarn from Ancient Arts Yarn called Big Squeeze, I decided to re-knit this design to see where I needed to update the instructions. This turned out to be a great exercise, because I realized there was a bit of errata (the pattern neglects to specify which way the cables lean), and it could also benefit from the addition of charts to accompany the written instructions. As a result, I've added a supplement PDF which is available as a free download here on Ravelry - it includes both the errata and the charts for your knitting pleasure.

It's great for wearing around the house, too.

After finishing my hat, I opted to add a fun pom pom to the top, which the pattern doesn't call for - but I assume that those who enjoy a good pom pom already know how to do that (if you are wondering, I used a 5.5cm pom pom maker from Knitter's Pride to make mine).

Click here to download the Snaky Cables hat pattern for free on Ravelry!

Comments

Overdyeing A Finished Knit

Even after just a few years of knitting or crocheting, you're bound to have some finished projects lying around that never get worn or used. After 10+ years of crafting, I have more than just "some" or "a few"....and with my ongoing quest to declutter my house this year, I've become obsessed with going through these forlorn projects and making some Big Decisions. Sometimes, they are perfectly fine and just need a new and loving home. Other projects may have not turned out quite right: there might have been some mistakes in the knitting that I thought I could live with, or the yarn was gorgeous but not well-matched to the pattern, or my taste has drastically changed since I finished making the project...in any case, why on earth did I keep knitting?! Who knows, but I don't feel good about gifting anything that falls into this category to someone else. These projects have been relegated to the "frog pile" (or should I say, frog pond?), to b...

Easy DIY: Beaded Vintage Snowflake Ornament Kits from Solid Oak Inc.

I was really excited to step outside of my comfort zone and try something new as part of my "Christmas in July" theme this month. The kind folks at Solid Oak Inc offered me a chance to review one of their Nostalgic Christmas beaded crystal ornament kits I couldn't resist. My tree is already full of ornaments I've inherited or been gifted from other family members and friends, so these pretty crystal beaded ornaments will fit right in I think! I was super impressed with this compact little kit , which includes everything needed to create three gorgeous vintage-style ornaments - just add a pair of round nose pliers (I found mine on Amazon for less than ten bucks). The instructions had some fabulous tips for newbies like me; for example, it recommended sorting the beads and laying them out in order on a towel or beading mat to prevent them from rolling away. That may seem obvious, but I was totally ready to start beading on my kitchen table without a...

What If I Didn't Add Heels?

Last weekend, I finished the first sock with my Waterlilies yarn , and just for yuks, I tried it on even though it was basically just a tube sock. Much to my surprise, it fit really well, even without a heel. Who knew? So, that got me thinking: what if I just didn't add the heels? I never thought a tube sock would actually fit nicely, but I genuinely like the fit, so...why spend time to add the heels? As the saying goes, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.... Let's say I decide not to add heels once the second sock is done - there will still be placeholder yarn for the afterthought heels, as you can see above, so should I leave it in and just weave in the ends? Or should I remove it, put the live stitches back on needles and at least graft them together using more of the Waterlilies yarn? I plan on mulling all of this over as I knit the second sock, and I'd love to hear your opinions of what you think would look best (or if you think this whole "n...

handmade by stefanie

Search This Blog