Twisted Falls

Twisted Falls Beret by Julie Robinson

What is Being Made

The Twisted Falls Beret is an adult woman's mixed stitch beret pattern designed by Julie Robinson. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a finished beret with a circumference of 22.5 inches (57 cm) at the opening and a crown diameter of 10 inches (25.5 cm). The beret features a sophisticated construction that combines multiple stitch techniques to create visually complex textures despite being intermediate in difficulty level.

Techniques and Stitches Used

This pattern showcases a blend of fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques that work together to create the beret's distinctive appearance. The primary stitch techniques employed include:

• Twisted Rib: A foundational ribbed stitch worked as knit one through the back loop alternating with purl one, creating a textured base for the design
• Right Twist (RT): A cable-like stitch that twists two stitches to the right, contributing to the chevron and mock cable textures
• Left Twist (LT): The counterpart to right twist, twisting stitches to the left to create balanced visual interest and the characteristic chevron patterns
• Stockinette Stitch: Used as the gauge measurement standard and incorporated throughout the pattern for contrast
• Yarn Over (YO): Decorative increases that add lace-like elements to the design

The combination of right and left twist stitches creates beautiful mock cables and chevron textures that give the beret its distinctive visual complexity. Despite the intricate appearance, row-by-row directions make the pattern accessible to intermediate knitters.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for 2 skeins of Catskill Merino Fingering weight yarn, with each skein weighing 2 oz and containing 225 yards. The pattern uses approximately 240 yards total, leaving nearly 1 extra ball of yarn remaining. This fingering weight yarn is a 4-ply sport weight option that provides excellent stitch definition for showcasing the twisted and cable stitches.

Needles: The pattern requires two sizes of double-pointed needles (DPNs). Size 2 (2.75 mm) DPNs are used for the initial ribbed sections, while Size 4 (3.5 mm) DPNs are used for the main body of the beret. The use of two needle sizes allows for proper gauge and creates the intended fit and drape.

Additional Notions: Stitch markers are essential for tracking pattern repeats and maintaining proper stitch placement throughout the rounds. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends and finishing the beret.

Gauge: The pattern is worked to a gauge of 24 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. Achieving proper gauge is critical for obtaining the correct finished measurements.

Pattern Difficulty and Construction

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Twisted Falls Beret is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to explore twist stitches and cable techniques. While the finished beret appears intricate with its mixed stitch textures and mock cables, the row by row directions simplify the construction process, making it manageable for knitters at this skill level. The pattern uses circular construction with double-pointed needles, a standard technique for hat knitting that ensures seamless, professional results.