Glenfarg Beret Pink

Glenfarg Beret Pink by Sharon Spencer

What is Being Made

The Glenfarg Beret Pink is a classic beret hat designed by Sharon Spencer, created to complement winter outerwear. This downloadable knitting pattern produces a finished beret with a diameter of 10 or 11 inches, sized to fit heads measuring 20–23 inches in circumference. The beret features a traditional rounded crown shape characteristic of this iconic hat style.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The pattern utilizes circular knitting worked in the round, which eliminates the need for seaming and creates a seamless, professional finish. The construction begins with ribbed cuff work to create an elastic edge that fits snugly around the head. The pattern incorporates increases to shape the crown and create the characteristic fullness of a beret, followed by decreases to taper back down and form the finished crown. Blocking is an essential finishing technique used to set the gauge and shape the beret properly, with a 10 or 11 inch plate recommended for blocking.

Stitches Used

The Glenfarg Beret Pink pattern employs classic knitting stitches suitable for intermediate crafters. The primary stitches include:

• Knit (K) stitches – the fundamental stitch forming the main fabric
• Purl (P) stitches – used in the ribbed cuff section to create texture and elasticity
• Make 1 (M1) increases – created by picking up the loop between stitches and knitting into the back of the loop, used to shape the beret's crown
• Slip 2, Knit 1, Pass Slipped Stitches Over (S2, K1, PSSO) decreases – a double decrease technique used to shape and taper the crown

The combination of these stitches creates a structured, well-fitted beret with proper shaping.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for Jamieson's of Shetland Spindrift, a premium 4-ply yarn weight, with 25g each of four colors: Raspberry, Sorbet, Rose, and Natural White. This high-quality Shetland yarn provides excellent stitch definition and durability. The 4-ply weight offers a balanced thickness suitable for creating a structured beret that maintains its shape.

Needles: The pattern requires two needle sizes to accommodate different sections of the hat. Needles measuring 2.75mm are used for working the ribbed cuff, while 3.00mm needles are used for the main body. Both needle sizes can be worked as double-pointed needles or circular needles, allowing crafters to choose their preferred method for circular knitting. Needle size should be adjusted as needed to obtain the correct gauge.

Additional Notions: A stitch marker is essential for marking the beginning of each round. A tapestry needle is required for weaving in yarn ends and finishing. Scissors are needed for cutting yarn. A 10 or 11 inch plate is recommended for blocking the finished beret to set the gauge and achieve proper shape and measurements.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 39 rows by 32 stitches per 4 inches (10 cm) when worked on 3.00mm needles after blocking. Achieving the correct gauge is critical for obtaining the proper finished measurements of 10 or 11 inches in diameter. Crafters should knit a gauge swatch, block it, and measure carefully before beginning the project to ensure their finished beret fits correctly.