Blackfriars beret

Blackfriars Beret by Katya Frankel

What is Being Made

The Blackfriars Beret is a knitted hat inspired by the architectural details of the medieval Blackfriars cloister in Newcastle, England. Specifically, the design draws inspiration from the original door and window arches found in this historic structure. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted beret with a distinctive all-over cable pattern that evolves throughout the hat's construction.

Garment Specifications

Sizing: Available in four sizes to fit head circumferences of 18, 20, 22, and 24 inches (45.5, 51, 56, and 61 centimeters). The finished brim circumference ranges from 16¼ to 21¾ inches (41.5 to 55.5 centimeters).

Knitting Techniques

This beret is worked in the round, a fundamental technique for creating seamless, tubular garments. The pattern incorporates simple increases and decreases strategically placed to shape the hat from the brim to the crown. The shaping is integrated directly into the cable pattern rather than worked separately, creating a cohesive design element throughout the piece.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Blackfriars Beret features an all-over cable pattern as its primary stitch work. This cable pattern begins at the brim and grows naturally through the body of the hat, continuing into the crown shaping. The design also incorporates Stocking Stitch in the construction, along with ribbing at the brim for a fitted edge. The integration of shaping within the cable pattern demonstrates intermediate-level pattern reading and manipulation skills.

Materials and Gauge

Yarn: Artesano 100% Alpaca DK weight yarn is specified for this project. Alpaca fiber provides softness and warmth, making it an excellent choice for a close-fitting hat.

Needles: The pattern uses multiple needle sizes to accommodate different stitch patterns and achieve proper gauge:

• 3.75 mm (US 5) needles for the main body pattern in Stocking Stitch: 22 stitches and 28 rounds = 4 inches / 10 centimeters
• 3.75 mm (US 5) needles for the cable pattern: 22 stitches and 28 rounds = 4 inches / 10 centimeters
• 3.5 mm (US 4) needles for the brim ribbing: 25 stitches and 28 rounds = 4 inches / 10 centimeters

Gauge Adjustment: Knitters are advised to adjust needle size as needed to achieve the correct gauge, which is essential for proper fit. The provided gauges also serve as a reference guide for selecting yarn substitutions if alternative yarns are preferred.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this beret is suitable for knitters with experience working in the round and familiarity with cable stitches and basic shaping techniques. The integration of shaping within the pattern requires attention to stitch manipulation and pattern reading skills.