hat wearer feature_Layout 1 24/11/2014 09:02 Page 2
WHAT TYPE OF
HAT WEARER ARE YOU?
Hook, stitch & give, £14.99, Kyle Books
Bobble hat, beanie or beret; fitted, slouchy, knitted or crocheted – everyone has a preference when it comes to the woollen crown on their noggin hether it’s a fashion statement or to keep you toasty, hats are synonymous with every season throughout the year. You could be hanging on to your winter warmer as spring is starting, or grabbing some shade in the summer months – there’s always a good reason for keeping your head under wraps. Whatever your hat preference, it’s nice to be knowledgeable in exactly how a hat is constructed. We caught up with Rachael Oglesby, author of Crochet Boutique Hats to find out what her top tips for crocheting hats are: “Since fit and tension are important, and to avoid a less than perfect fit, take the time to make up a swatch so that your creation does not end up too tight or too loose. Keep the seasons in mind when choosing your materials – a summer topper will be best made in cotton, linen or raffia. Whereas, winter styles are better suited to heat retaining fibres like wool.” Rachael is a big fan of decorative effects, continuing: “Embellish your work. Even though
you’ve finished stitching the pattern that doesn’t mean you have to stop there. Add a huge pom-pom to the top of your beanie, create a braided leather band or grab a piece of lace to tie around your sun bonnet. The possibilities are endless and add a unique touch to your work. Adorning your creations can lead to trying your hand at designing your own. Once you’ve made a few designs and begun to understand the basic shapes, play around with new stitches and see what happens.” When it comes to incorporating more advanced stitch patterns or designs, such as cables or lace, especially in the round, Rachael advises to sit down with a pen and paper and map it out. “Crochet charts can help you visualise your pattern, stitch count and the schematics of what you need to do to make it work. Trial and error can be a good way to learn from your mistakes, but taking the time to write it out can save you from ripping back your stitches, known as frogging in the trade!” For the makers, buyers and givers among us, read on for our choice picks just for you.
Make it Today! 44
DITCH THE STRAW AND OPT FOR A CROCHET BOATER INSTEAD (PATTERN FROM CROCHET BOUTIQUE HATS)