Knitting Beret & Scarf in Lion Brand Homespun

Lion Brand Homespun Knitted Beret & Scarf Set

What Is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern creates a coordinated two-piece set consisting of a knitted beret hat and a matching scarf. The beret is designed as a classic, structured hat that fits most head sizes with a finished diameter of 10 inches and circumference of 32 inches. The accompanying scarf is a generous rectangular piece measuring 8 inches wide by 76 inches long in its unfinished state, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various styling options.

Skill Level & Suitability

This pattern is rated as Easy, making it an excellent choice for knitters who are new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward project. The straightforward construction and basic techniques required mean that even beginners can successfully complete both the hat and scarf components.

Knitting Techniques Used

The pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques that build essential skills:

• Ribbed knit construction: The beret begins with knit-purl ribbing (K1, P1) worked over 7 rounds using smaller needles, which creates elasticity and helps the hat maintain its shape around the head
• Increases: The M1 (make 1) increase technique is used to expand stitches by lifting the horizontal thread between needles and working it through the back loop, allowing the beret to achieve its characteristic fuller crown
• Centered double decreases: The Sl 2 kwise-k1-p2sso (slip 2 stitches knitwise, knit 1, pass 2 slipped stitches over) technique creates a centered decrease that shapes the beret's crown
• Circular knitting: Both pieces are worked in the round using circular needles, which eliminates seaming and creates seamless, professional-looking garments

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes basic knitting stitches suitable for beginners:

• Stockinette stitch (St st): The primary stitch used throughout both pieces, created by alternating knit and purl rows (or knit rounds in circular knitting), producing the classic smooth, V-patterned fabric
• Ribbing (K1, P1): An alternating knit and purl pattern that creates vertical lines and provides stretch and recovery to the fabric

Materials & Yarn Requirements

This pattern is specifically designed for Lion Brand Homespun yarn, a bulky-weight yarn that comes in 6-ounce skeins. The recommended colorway is #336 Barrington, though any color from the Homespun collection (Art #790) can be substituted. Material requirements are minimal and economical:

• 1 skein of Lion Brand Homespun for the beret hat
• 2 skeins of Lion Brand Homespun for the scarf
• Total: 3 skeins needed to complete the entire coordinated set

Needles & Tools

The pattern requires specific needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and fit:

• 16-inch circular needle in size 8 (5.00 mm) for the ribbed cuff of the hat
• 16-inch circular needle in size 10 (6.00 mm) for the main body of the hat
• Double-pointed needles (DPNs) in size 10 (6.00 mm) for working the crown decreases when stitches become too few for circular needles

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 14 stockinette stitches = 4 inches when worked on size 10 (6.00 mm) needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for the finished beret to fit correctly and the scarf to have the intended drape and dimensions. Knitters are advised to knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project.

Pattern Features

This free downloadable pattern from Lion Brand Yarn offers a complete, easy-to-follow design that produces a sophisticated accessory set. The use of Lion Brand Homespun's textured, bulky yarn creates a fabric with visual interest and warmth, while the simple stitch patterns ensure the yarn's character remains the focal point of the finished pieces.