Paris

Paris Beret by B H Design

What Is Being Made

The Paris Beret is an elegant, French-inspired knitted hat designed by Beata Higham Design. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a classic beret suitable for everyday wear or special occasions. The finished hat measures 9 inches (23 centimeters) in length and 12 inches (31 centimeters) wide when folded in half at the widest point, fitting a 22-inch (56-centimeter) head circumference. The beret's refined aesthetic makes it a versatile accessory that can be customized through yarn choice—from sophisticated solid tones to eye-catching glittery variations.

Techniques and Construction

This knitting pattern employs circular knitting techniques using two different needle sizes to create shaping and structure. The construction begins with casting on 96 stitches and progresses through multiple sections worked in the round. Simple cable work is incorporated throughout the design, adding visual elegance and textural interest to the finished beret. The cable stitches are a defining design element that elevates the hat from basic to sophisticated, making it suitable for both casual and formal styling.

Stitches Used

The pattern features cable stitches as the primary stitch technique, which create the decorative raised lines characteristic of cable knit garments. These cables are described as "simple," making them accessible to intermediate knitters while still providing substantial visual impact. The pattern works with a foundation of 96 cast-on stitches, distributed and manipulated through various rounds to achieve the beret's distinctive shape and drape.

Materials and Yarn

The pattern accommodates multiple yarn options, both specified at 4-ply weight. The pink beret version uses Lana Grossa Lace Seta, a luxury blend of 70% Alpaka and 30% Silk with a yardage of 250 meters per 50-gram ball. The blue beret variation uses Lana Grossa Ecopuno, a sustainable blend of 72% Cotton, 17% Merino, and 11% Alpaka with 215 meters per 50-gram ball. Both yarns work at a gauge of 25 stitches and 32 rows over a 10-centimeter (4-inch) square.

Needles and Tools

• Size 4mm circular knitting needle (US 6, UK 8), 80 centimeters long—used for initial cast-on and early rounds
• Size 5mm circular knitting needle (US 8, UK 6), 80 centimeters long—used for subsequent sections to create gauge and shaping
• Cable needle for working cable stitches
• Stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle cable work and circular knitting. The combination of cable stitches, circular needle techniques, and shaping makes it more challenging than beginner projects while remaining achievable for those with some knitting experience.