Cintar

One of my fondest memories from my childhood in Russia is mushroom picking with my family. The coolness of the dim, damp woods was somehow magical. I still remember how thrilling it was to be the first in the group to spot a mushroom!

When I came across this colourwork pattern, I immediately thought that it reminded me of my favourite mushroom, the Saffron Milk Cap. The Turkish name for it is Cintar. Now, I don't have any connections with Turkey (as far as I'm aware!) but it sounds so much prettier and is easier to pronounce than the Russian name, ryzhik. :)

Options are given in the pattern for a regular beanie, slouchy cap, or a cowl. The design is worked in two contrasting colours of light fingering yarn. In addition to the stranded knitting, a double brim makes the hat especially warm; the cowl is doubled too, throughout, for maximum warmth. Whichever option you choose, I hope you make some pleasant memories of your own while wearing this design!