Pixie Hood with Point and Tassel

Pixie Hood with Point and Tassel by Embrace Crafts

What is Being Made

The Pixie Hood with Point and Tassel is a knitted head covering designed by Karen Tucker that provides comprehensive warmth and protection for cold weather. This distinctive garment covers the entire head, ears, and neck area, extending down to tuck into a coat collar. The hood features a characteristic pointed crown with a decorative tassel at the tip, and includes a generous cowl section that can be drawn tight around the face for added wind protection. The design functions as both a practical winter accessory and a stylish statement piece, offering the wearer what the designer describes as "a hug you can wear."

Finished Dimensions

• Approximately 21 inches from front to the tip of the pointed tail
• Approximately 14 inches from the top of the head to the bottom of the cowl

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to achieve its structured shape and decorative elements. The pattern utilizes shaping methods to create the pointed crown, cable work for textural interest and dimension, and tailoring techniques to ensure the hood fits snugly around the head and neck. The construction requires careful attention to tension and stitch placement to create a garment that maintains its shape while providing comfortable coverage.

Materials Required

• Yarn: 200g of chunky weight yarn, such as James Brett Marble Chunky, Sirdar Folksong, or comparable chunky yarn
• Needles: 5.5mm single-pointed needles for main construction
• Additional Tools: Thick cable needle for cable work techniques and a darning or tapestry needle for finishing and seaming

Gauge and Tension

The pattern is worked to an approximate gauge of 22 rows and 15 stitches over 10 centimeters, which helps determine the final size and fit of the finished hood. Maintaining consistent tension throughout the project is essential for achieving the intended dimensions and ensuring the hood provides proper coverage.

Yarn Weight and Construction

This project utilizes chunky and aran weight yarns, which create a dense, warm fabric ideal for winter wear. The thicker yarn weight allows the hood to be completed relatively quickly while still providing substantial insulation and structure. The chunky yarn also showcases stitch definition clearly, making cable and textural elements visually prominent in the finished piece.

Skill Level

Rated as an intermediate project, this pattern is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic knitting techniques and are ready to tackle more complex shaping and stitch work. The inclusion of cable techniques and the three-dimensional shaping required to create the pointed crown and fitted cowl make this an engaging project for developing knitters seeking to expand their skill set.