Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Friend of the Forest Hood

Friend of the Forest Hood
Size Medium

This particular design represents a perfect confluence of events; first, I got a request for a hooded cowl with a rounded crown, and then I found this rather spectacular alpaca yarn in the sale bin at my local yarn shop and knew that it would be perfect for the job. And if that isn't delightful enough, I also played a harrowing game of yarn chicken and managed to finish this medium size hood with just two skeins of the yarn. As you'll notice, however, I recommend a bit extra if you're making this size - unless, of course, you like to live as dangerously as I do. ;)

Sizes: Small (Medium; Large) (Small is perfect for toddlers & young children; medium for large children, teens, and small adults; large for large adults or simply a fuller-fitting hood)

Yarn: Lana Grossa Alta Moda Alpaca (90% Alpaca, 5% Virgin Wool, 5% Polyamide; 153 yards [140 meters]/50 grams); #035 Lime Sherbet - 2 skeins (3 skeins; 3 skeins)

A better look at the back finish.
Short rows give it a nice rounded seam.
Needles: one 16" circular needle in size US 9, one set of double pointed needles (dpns) in size US 9 for three needle bind off (you can also use regular straight needles and your circular needle for your third)

Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch marker

Gauge: 18 stitches = 4 inches in stockinette

So let's make a hood thingy thing! And let's start by casting on 96 (108; 120) stitches loosely, placing marker, and joining it in the round. Next, purl four rows around as edging. And once that's done, knit until knit section measures roughly 4" (4.5"; 5"). Then we'll work a few transition rows, as follows:

Transition Row 1: * k10, k2tog; rep from * (88; 99; 110 stitches)

Transition Row 2: knit

Transition Row 3: * k9, k2tog * (80; 90; 100 stitches)


Transition Row 4: knit

Knit transition rows 1 - 4. At this point, you're going to stop knitting in the round, and instead knit back and forth from the stitch marker (you're still going to need your circular needle to do this, however, since otherwise you'll rip your work apart at the break). Anyway, so we'll continue like so:

Row 1 (wrong side): k1, purl until you have 1 stitch left in row, k1

Row 2: knit

Knit rows 1 & 2 until piece measures 6" (7"; 8") from where you started knitting back and forth and you've just finished a wrong side row. Now we'll begin working short rows to shape the crown of the hat (here's a short row technique refresher if you need one). Since I run my own website and don't risk running out of space, I've given the short row directions for each size separately. So find your size below and work as given!

Size Small

Short Row 1 (right side): k39, wrap and turn (w&t)

Short Rows 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, & 20: purl until you have 1 stitch left in row, k1

Short Row 3: k38, w&t

Short Row 5: k37, w&t

Short Row 7: k36, w&t

Short Row 9: k34, w&t

Short Row 11: k32, w&t


Short Row 13: k30, w&t

Short Row 15: k28, w&t

Short Row 17: k26, w&t

Short Row 19: k24, w&t

Short Row 21: knit (not actually a short row!)

Short Row 22: k1, p38, w&t

Short Rows 23, 25, 27, 29, 31, 33, 35, 37, & 39, & 41: knit until end of row

Short Row 24: k1, p37, w&t

Short Row 26: k1, p36, w&t

Short Row 28: k1, p35, w&t

Short Row 30: k1, p33, w&t

Short Row 32: k1, p31, w&t

Short Row 34: k1, p29, w&t

Short Row 36: k1, p27, w&t

Short Row 38: k1, p25, w&t

Short Row 40: k1, p23, w&t

Short Row 42:
k1, purl until 1 stitch left in row, k1 (not actually a short row!)

Size Medium

Short Row 1 (right side): k44, wrap and turn (w&t)


Short Rows 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, & 22: purl until you have 1 stitch left in row, k1
 
Short Row 3: k43, w&t

Short Row 5: k42, w&t

Short Row 7: k41, w&t

Short Row 9: k40, w&t

Short Row 11: k38, w&t

Short Row 13: k36, w&t

Short Row 15: k34, w&t

Short Row 17: k32, w&t

Short Row 19: k30, w&t

Short Row 21: k28, w&t

Short Row 23: knit (not actually a short row!)

Short Row 24: k1, p43, w&t


Short Rows 25, 27, 29, 31, 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, & 43, & 45: knit until end of row


Short Row 26: k1, p42, w&t

Short Row 28: k1, p41, w&t
 

Short Row 30: k1, p40, w&t

Short Row 32: k1, p39, w&t

Short Row 34: k1, p37, w&t

Short Row 36: k1, p35, w&t

Short Row 38: k1, p33, w&t

Short Row 40: k1, p31, w&t

Short Row 42: k1, p29, w&t

Short Row 44: k1, p27, w&t
 
Short Row 46: k1, purl until 1 stitch left in row, k1 (not actually a short row!)

Size Large


Short Row 1 (right side): k49, wrap and turn (w&t)


Short Rows 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, & 24: purl until you have 1 stitch left in row, k1

Short Row 3: k48, w&t

Short Row 5: k47, w&t

Short Row 7: k46, w&t

Short Row 9: k45, w&t

Short Row 11: k44, w&t

Short Row 13: k42, w&t

Short Row 15: k40, w&t

Short Row 17: k38, w&t

Short Row 19: k36, w&t

Short Row 21: k34, w&t

Short Row 23: k32, w&t

Short Row 25: knit (not actually a short row!)

Short Row 26: k1, p48, w&t

Short Rows 27, 29, 31, 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, & 49: knit

Short Row 28: k1, p47, w&t

Short Row 30: k1, p46, w&t

Short Row 32: k1, p45, w&t

Short Row 34: k1, p44, w&t

Short Row 36: k1, p43, w&t

Short Row 38: k1, p41, w&t

Short Row 40: k1, p39, w&t

Short Row 42: k1, p37, w&t

Short Row 44: k1, p35, w&t

Short Row 46: k1, p33, w&t

Short Row 48: k1, p31, w&t

Short Row 50: k1, purl until 1 stitch left in row, k1 (not actually a short row!)

Complete the short rows given for your size. You have now worked both sides of your crown and are ready to seam the top. Therefore, divide your stitches evenly between two dpns and use third dpn to work three needle bind off to seam hood (you can also bind off regularly and seam, or of course use other needles besides dpns to complete it - I just like them because I don't have to worry which end I insert them through for the bind off!). Finally, using your circular needle again, pick up 86 (96; 110) evenly along face hole (in case any of you are as lazy about this stuff as me: the evenly part is important! Place stitch markers or something to keep your sections even if you need to in order to keep track!). Knit four rows around and bind off loosely. Tuck in ends and block hood, allowing both edgings (at the bottom of the hood and around the face) to curl naturally. And that, friends, is how you make this hood!

178 comments:

  1. Thanks! This is a very cool design.

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    1. I'm glad you like it! I went for basic but elegant... and it was very much inspired by the color of the yarn! :)

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    3. Hi there!

      After you complete the transition rows you're either going to have 80, 90, or 100 stitches. That means you'll knit 1, purl 78 (or 88, or 98), and then knit 1 again. Let me know if you have any more questions! :)

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    4. Dahhhhh... I got it now, appreciate the tip. I'm looking so forward to finishing my hoodie. I havetwo colors, solid apple green then a multi. blk. Gry, lav.and green.Or shou. I stay solud

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    5. I Just shaved my head. I started out for a large.my head messures 21 &5/8 inches, and 23& 7/8 inches from top ofhead to under chin. Can you sugg.how I can adpt to have,a little more fitting head part of hoodie.

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    6. Hi again!

      Based on your measurements and your photos, I would suggest simply transitioning the hood (that you've started as a large) down to the medium size by adding two more transition rows once you finish the first four, as follows:

      Transition Row 5: * k8, k2tog * (90 stitches)

      Transition Row 6: knit

      Then you can follow the medium size instructions from there! I think that should be a pretty good fit, although if you want to be *extra* precise you can measure your row gauge (like, how many rows make 4 inches). The short rows at the top will add 23 rows to your pattern, so you can figure out EXACTLY how much you want to knit before you work the short row portion with that information! :)

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    7. You are so wonderful to help me, thank you very much

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    8. You are so wonderful to help me, thank you very much

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  2. I love the design. How would it look worn as a cowl and pulled up when needed?

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    1. I was going to take pictures that way but then forgot (and didn't want to re-brush my mannequin's wig to put the hood back on - my husband made lots of fun of me the first time). However, it looks great that way, and I'll try to get another picture up tomorrow!!! :)

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    2. Okay photos are up! :) Hope that helps!!!

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  3. Replies
    1. Of course you can! I chose to seam rather than graft because I was worried the crown stitches might poke out a bit, but I didn't try so I could be wrong! :)

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    2. a Russian lacemaker's join would be my choice.
      Julie in San Diego

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  4. Thanks a lot for the great and very detailed pattern.I wanted to make this for a long time,cant wait to start.Will finish the face part with some fur.All the best and thanks agin.

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    1. Ooh, love the idea of the fur! Good luck and let me know if you have any questions! :)

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  5. hi I am old and never have done a hood. I started the short rows and realized I did not know how I was going to do the other side when I got to row 20 or is it 21. help please Vi

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    1. Hi there!

      I've had this same problem myself. :) Go ahead and check out this tutorial though, it should help: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2008/06/18/short-rows/

      And let me know if you have any other questions!

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  6. Oh, I have to make one of these. It would niftily solve my problem of a cold neck during the winter. I will redesign it, though, to make it patterned. Thanks for posting this.

    Mary Fran Cherry (not Steve)

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    1. Yup, this is a good basic design for you to add pattern to! Good luck and let me know if you have any questions!!! :)

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  7. Thank you for this pattern. It is just what I was looking for. I haven't done short rows before but I will watch a couple of utube instructional videos. I like purl solo and also VeryPink.com. For help. Again thank you+
    Virginia

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    1. Glad you like it! :) And I apologize for the delayed response - somehow your comment got stuck in my spam filter!!!

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  8. This looks lovely. I have an assortment of yarns in my stash that would knit up beautifully into this. What weight is the yarn? I'm in the UK, so is it DK/Aran/chunky?
    Penny

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    1. Hi Penny!

      I tag all of my posts with the yarn weight (those tags show up between the bottom of the post and the comments). This particular one is aran! :)

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    2. Hello, the hood is enchanting! I'm also in the UK, so thank you for clarifying the wool type. I'm tied up with a work project this week, but I know what I'm doing next week! I also have just bought a massive amount of gorgeous aran wool in graphite... 😄

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    3. Ack! Easily one of the best colors!!! :) And let me know if you have any more questions!!!

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  9. Love this!! Such a cool take on a hat to keep warm....and when it's too warm you don't have to carry it!! Can't wait to knit this.

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    1. Yup, that's the idea exactly! And I'm glad you like the pattern - let me know if you have any questions! :)

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  10. Help! When you are turning and wrapping what's happening to the rest of the knitting? I'm struggling. Regards martine

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    1. Hi Martine!

      Did you check out this page for technique? https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2008/06/18/short-rows/

      I like it, for explanation. And if you did look at that and are still confused let me know more specifics and I'll try to help you out! :)

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    2. Awesome now I know what to do! What a magic hood girl well done on the design! Regards Martine.

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    3. I don’t understand the short rows and I did check out the page mentioned above. It seems like I keep going back and forth on just one side of the hoood. This isn’t working.

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    4. Hi there!

      Actually, it sounds like you're doing it exactly right! First you work short rows on one half of the hood, then the other, then you seam the whole thing up! :)

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    5. Gretchen, does it say something in the instructions about doing the short rows one half at a time and I just missed it?

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    6. Not specifically, but if you follow the instructions you will only work across half the hat at a time... :)

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    7. Okay, I went back and read through the instructions again and I think I see it now. I'm trying to add a hood to a cardigan by picking up stitches and working up and was hoping to use just the short rows section of the hood pattern. I am definitely out of my comfort zone. So, I wanted to understand it before I did it. I'm familiar with the kind of instructions that you just need to do and it will work out and this seems to be like that. The person I'm making the cardigan for has seen my struggle and has decided that a collar rather than a hood. I'm conflicted because I was looking forward to having a sense of accomplishment from conquering a technique I haven't done before. I agreed to the collar and was looking longingly at the pictures of the Forest Hood - and decided I would actually like to make one for myself! :)

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    8. Ha, I understand the struggle! Let me know if you have any other questions. And I'm confident that you would be able to adapt the pattern once you've made it once, no matter what! :)

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  11. I just finished knitting this and love how it turned out! Thanks for the great pattern.

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    1. Yay! That's something I always love to hear!!! Glad you're happy! :)

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  12. Hi Gretchen, Love this cowl! I want to make it for my sister-in-law. I've been looking for one that she'd like for ages. She has a couple of questions though. How large is the opening on the medium and the large cowl? Also, How long is the fabric between the bottom of the opening and the bottom edge? She doesn't want too much fabric to 'pool' when she pulls it back. Thank you for your help. Michelle

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    1. Hi Michelle!

      The opening on the medium cowl measures about 21" around; the opening on the large cowl measures about 24.5". And the fabric between the bottom of the opening and the bottom edge is about 5.5" in the medium and 6" in the large, although of course you can simply knit less if you prefer it! Hope that helps. :)

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  13. Thank you for this pattern. I tried making up a hood pattern myself but it kind of didn't work - bit rubbish, really. I will unrun my attempt and follow your pattern instead. Deborah

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    1. It happens! I had to rip this one out a few times before I got it right! Anyway, let me know if you have any questions!!! :)

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  14. I don't normally do hats or cowls, but this I like. It will probably work great for those days when I have to shovel snow or pop in and out of stores. I think I'll make this up in colorwork with to different yarns for some textured interest. Thanks for sharing.

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    1. Glad to hear you like the pattern! It is, indeed, meant to be practical! :) Anyway, let me know if you have any questions!!!

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  15. Help! This is my 1st time doing short rows. I've checked out the link you provided on it.
    But I still don't get it.
    Row1: K44, then wrap & turn on the 45th stitch?
    Row 2: P43, K1
    Row 3: K43, and then what do I do with stitch 44 & 45(with the wrap)?
    Am I understanding the instructions correctly?

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    1. Hi there! First off, I understand: short rows can be confusing at first! Basically, there are two steps to doing them: first, you knit (or purl) as many stitches as you need, then you wrap the stitch just beyond those stitches so that you don't get a hole in your work. Which brings us to the second part: dealing with the wraps when you reach them again. Basically, you lift the wrapped parts onto your needle with the stitch that they wrap and then knit (or purl) the wrap and stitch together (you can see the instructional page for more details about how to lift them).

      In this particular pattern, you won't have to deal with any of the wraps until you're knitting all the way across at the end of each side of short rows, so you don't do anything with the wraps on row 3, since you won't even knit that far across.

      Does that help? :)

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  16. Hi. I don't understand row 25 for size L. Up until now the only way I've knit short rows is in socks by picking up one wrap per knit or purl row. In row 25, do I pick up all the wraps in one row or do I only knit the non-wrapped stitches and deal with the wraps only when I do the finishing seam/bind off?

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    1. Hi there!

      You're right that you don't knit up to the previous wraps while doing these short rows; however, on row 21 and row 42 you will work all the way across the row, and that's your chance to pick up your wraps! Let me know if you have any other questions. :)

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  17. I looked high and low for the perfect pattern and this is it! I just want to know how I would make adjustments if I used super bulky yarn? Or bulky

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    1. Hi there!

      Glad you like the pattern. :) Let me know what size you'd like to make and your specific gauge and I can help you with some modifications!

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  18. I love this pattern! But I'm beginner I wish you can find time to make video tutorial please? Thank you!

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    1. I'm glad to hear you like the pattern! And if I ever do find time to make a video tutorial specifically for this one, you'll be the first to know. In the meantime, however, you can find many good tutorials online that demonstrate all of the different aspects of this hat. If you have questions about a particular step, let me know and I can point you in the right direction. :)

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  19. Have you ever thought of felting this lovely hood? If it were made in the large size with perhaps slightly larger needles, then felting it for a dense, close fitting hood seems like it would work! Any suggestions? Thanks...

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    1. Hi Katie!

      Nope, I've never felted this pattern (I no longer have access to a top-load washer so I don't see much felting in my immediate future...). However, if it's something you're interested in, you should probably swatch and felt first (unfortunately! I'm sorry). If you send me the original swatch size (bigger the better - minimum 6" square, I would say, to get anything accurate) and then the post-felting dimensions I can help you modify the pattern for felting. :)

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  20. Love this one Gretchen. Perfect for the winter. How did I miss seeing this one before?????

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    1. I don't know, but I'm glad you're seeing it now! :) Glad you like it!!!

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  21. Hi Gretchen, beautiful pattern, but i have some problem to understand the instruction, this is my first time to do T & W...but now i learning by the videos in your tube...but i am confusing: i knit one size first and then the other size and joint it together...? please, help. thank you

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    1. Hi there!

      For the most part it sounds like you have it figured out; you will knit the short rows on one side and then the other and then seam the top. But since you've never done short rows before let me give you a few tips. :) First, then, a short row is any row that you don't work all the way across, but turn before you get to the end. And the w&t (or wrap and turn) is just one method you can use to prevent holes in your work when you turn it; there are others you can use if you prefer. If you google short row knitting you will find tons of information and you can use whichever technique you prefer; the only important thing is making the short rows with the same number of stitches as directed if you want the same rounded top. :)

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    2. Hi Gretchen, i have knit right size and them left size of W & T separated... but i did something wrong because it is too big, i work 10 w & t in each size...but the opening is too small and hood is too big...please, can you help me what i did wrong.? Sorry ...Thank you

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    3. Hi again! Is there any way you could email me a picture? ballstothewallsknits@gmail.com

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  22. gorgeous! thanks again for another great pattern

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    1. How am I just seeing this comment?!?! But it's better to say 'thank you' late than never, right? :)

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  23. A friend has been looking for something like this for quite awhile, but didn't like the look of a hood with a 'pointy' crown. I forwarded this link to her and - as if by magic - a lovely hand-painted Malabrigo has been acquired, and the project is already in her mum's queue. Thanks!

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    1. That's wonderful to hear! And you had me at 'Malabrigo'... :)

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  24. What's the advantage of knitting short rows rather than knitting all the way across, decreasing two stitches in the middle of each row?

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    1. Hi there! The short rows give it the rounded back while maintaining the width of the hood - if you decrease, it will get smaller and pull back from the forehead! :)

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  25. how do you go about picking stithes up along the face hole to knit? is there any tutorial you would recommend that might help me better visualize what to do at that point in the pattern? thank you!

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    1. Hi there!

      I poked around for a moment and I think this video has the most appropriate technique. Let me know if you have any other question!!! :)

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9XQxUAvtMM

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  26. Lovely pattern........im going to do this with Cascade 220 as I have a couple of hanks of a light forest green........my question is.......where did you get the mannequin? I do fairs sometimes and I'd love to get one

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    1. Amazon! I forget what you have to search for exactly but I'd probably try "mannequin head" to start with and refine from there! I have a wig on this one, by the way, but you can also find some with hair painted on. :)

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  27. Can I use mohair yarn for this pattern?

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    1. I don't see any reason why not, as long as your gauge is right! :)

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  28. I’m a fairly new knitter, and I’m afraid I’m stuck. I’m in the two transition rows before you start the short rows. I only have one stitch marker on my project, and that’s where my round starts. After a couple of rows of each one and two, there’s a kind of a gap or notch where my stitch marker is. Have I already messed this up? Please help! Thank you.

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    1. Aaah! I'm looking back and forth and I'm afraid I don't quite know how to diagnose; first off, the transition rows should only be worked one time through, and then you should start on the two normal rows. If you're on those two the gap is normal -since you've stopped working in the round you will have a face hole form (or in other words a slit in the pattern). If I haven't gotten what you're saying at all though feel free to email a pic to ballstothewallsknits@gmail.com and I'll have another go! :)

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    2. I sent a pic to your email address. It is just a slit, or a small gap. I just worked back and forth from the one stitch marker I had on my project. Thank you so much! I love this pattern!

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    3. I took a look and everything looks perfect!!! That is indeed the hole for your face. :)

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  29. I just started the short rows. At the beginning of the short rows, are we just supposed to be working on one side of the face opening? Thank you so much!

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    1. Yes, first you work one half, then the other! :) Let me know if you have any other questions!!

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  30. I love this pattern, I use it as a reference every time I want to knit something with a hood and want a rounded crown. And thanks to your pattern I discovered how amazing and useful short rows are. Thank you so much for this wonderful pattern!

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    1. Oh, I'm so happy to hear that! :) And short rows are pretty amazing, too.

      Anyway, I'm glad I could provide you with such a valuable resource. Thanks for the kind note! :)

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  31. Can you tell me how I would adjust the pattern if I used a lighter worsted rather than an aran weight yarn? Thanks.

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  32. I should add I want to make a size medium.

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    1. I am certainly happy to make some suggestions, although I'll need the exact gauge of your yarn! :) You might also consider holding two strands of your desired yarn together; that might bring you closer to this gauge as well.

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  33. I love love love this hoodie! I do however want to try it with a bulkier yarn. Just bought some Malabrigo Mecha yarn. They give a gauge of 11-13 stitches equals four inches. Size 10-11 needles. I would make it a medium. Do you have a quick way to adjust this pattern for a bulkier yarn? Want to make one for a Christmas gift.. thank you so much! It’s beautiful. After Christmas I’m goi g to treat myself to one! Arlene

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    1. Hi Arlene!

      Glad to hear that you like the pattern - I'm sure the Mecha will be a scrumptious choice for it!!! Anyway, I've adapted the pattern for you below, assuming a 12 stitch = 4 inches gauge. Let me know if you have any questions! :)

      Size: Medium

      Gauge: 12 stitches = 4 inches in stockinette

      So let's make a hood thingy thing! And let's start by casting on 72 stitches loosely, placing marker, and joining it in the round. Next, purl 3 rows around as edging. And once that's done, knit until knit section measures roughly 4.5". Then we'll work a few transition rows, as follows:

      Transition Row 1: * k10, k2tog; rep from * (66 stitches)

      Transition Row 2: knit

      Transition Row 3: * k9, k2tog * (60 stitches)

      Transition Row 4: knit

      Knit transition rows 1 - 4. At this point, you're going to stop knitting in the round, and instead knit back and forth from the stitch marker (you're still going to need your circular needle to do this, however, since otherwise you'll rip your work apart at the break). Anyway, so we'll continue like so:

      Row 1 (wrong side): k1, purl until you have 1 stitch left in row, k1

      Row 2: knit

      Knit rows 1 & 2 until piece measures 7" from where you started knitting back and forth and you've just finished a wrong side row. Now we'll begin working short rows to shape the crown of the hat, as follows:

      Size Medium

      Short Row 1 (right side): k29, wrap and turn (w&t)

      Short Rows 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, & 14: purl until you have 1 stitch left in row, k1
       
      Short Row 3: k28, w&t

      Short Row 5: k27, w&t

      Short Row 7: k25, w&t

      Short Row 9: k23, w&t

      Short Row 11: k21, w&t

      Short Row 13: k19, w&t

      Short Row 15: knit (not actually a short row!)

      Short Row 16: k1, p29, w&t

      Short Rows 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, & 29: knit until end of row

      Short Row 18: k1, p28, w&t

      Short Row 20: k1, p27, w&t
       
      Short Row 22: k1, p25, w&t

      Short Row 24: k1, p23, w&t

      Short Row 26: k1, p21, w&t

      Short Row 28: k1, p19, w&t

      Short Row 29: k1, purl until 1 stitch left in row, k1 (not actually a short row!)

      Complete the short rows. You have now worked both sides of your crown and are ready to seam the top. Therefore, divide your stitches evenly between two dpns and use third dpn to work three needle bind off to seam hood (you can also bind off regularly and seam, or of course use other needles besides dpns to complete it - I just like them because I don't have to worry which end I insert them through for the bind off!). Finally, using your circular needle again, pick up 64 evenly along face hole. Knit three rows around and bind off loosely. Tuck in ends and block hood, allowing both edgings (at the bottom of the hood and around the face) to curl naturally.

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  34. Gretchen
    Thank you so very much for responding to my request and so quickly! My yarn is on it’s way and I can’t wait to get started! Will keep you posted. Thanks again. Arlene

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    1. Wonderful! I did the math on this one and think that it should all work out, but let me know if you have any questions! :)

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  35. Love the pattern! I've gotten to the final step-do I pick up the stitches at the opening for the face on the right side and plan to have the rolled edge cover the seam, of on the wrong side?

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    1. Hi! I picked up and knit the stitches from the right side so they curl away from the face rather than over the inside seam. You can do it either way, whatever seems best to you! :)

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  36. I was planning to make a second Betty Bonnet because I've worn it more than anything this year, but when I noticed this hood I was impressed with the shaping--I don't like pointy hoods. I have just the yarn for it. I'm sure I saw that someone had added a cable up the side and wanted to try that, but I'm not sure where to start it at the bottom--like a stitch count so that it ends up framing the face. How would I determine that? Thanks so much--love your creative headgear!

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    1. Hi there!

      Glad to hear that you're enjoying my patterns - I really love the Betty Bonnet too so I love to see it enjoyed! :) Anyway, for this pattern the face hole ends up being right at the stitch marker, so if you want to add cables you can just do them on either side. I do have one hood with cables at the side of the face as well (http://www.ballstothewallsknits.com/2015/09/little-red-hooded-cowl.html), although of course it's pointy and doesn't have decreases to make the neck portion draw in either. Hope that helps, and let me know if you have any other questions!!! :)

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  37. Thank you for the speedy response! So I'd probably aim for maybe two stitches beyond the marker to start a purl band. It will be interesting to follow a chart written for a flat object executed in the round and then flat. The one I'm planning has both a right and left version. I know some sort of reversal will be required. The cable I have in mind is one of Elsebeth Lavold's from Viking Knits. I think it will suit the project. Thanks again!

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    1. That sounds very lovely - it sounds like the cables will mirror each other on either side of the face! Anyway, good luck, and let me know if you have any other questions!!!

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    2. I've done short rows before, so I get the wrap & turn part, but in the instructions would there be two complete rows between Row 2 and Row 3 where you knit the wrap and its stitch together and then complete the row and purl back before starting short Row 3? Based on the graceful curve of the crown that would be my guess.

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    3. I can see why you'd think that, but you actually knit ALL of the wrap and turns you create on the first side on row 21, 23, or 25, depending on which size you make. Otherwise the hood would get way too long!!! :)

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    4. OK, so you work one side completely, so you have a wedge insert, and then work the other side and finish. Sorry, I have the flu and I probably shouldn't even knit when I'm feverish. Also, had a migraine today! Thanks for your patience.

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    5. Yes, that's right, it's worked one wedge at a time (that's a nice way to put it!). And no worries, I'm happy to answer questions (and very familiar with the phenomenon of knitting less well when I'm at sub-peak efficiency!!!). :)

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  38. Hopefully someone else will benefit from my density. I sized down on the needles for the sake of crisp cables, but that means the drape won't be the same. I'll have to soften it up in the washer. May try it again with softer yarn and the recommended needle size. (I had to smile about your fav curse words because my Dad used to say that, until I began to say it--at age four--and my Mom made him stop. LOL)

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    1. You don't even want to hear what my three year old says... Since we live in Switzerland we hear unedited English music in the grocery store, and ten year olds swear in English on the bus. And my darling child has quite a mouth!!!!

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    2. I suspect my mother was afraid I would blurt it out in church! hehe

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  39. After knitting half of the crown in short rows when it says to knit the whole next row should I just knit normally or knit with the wraps kww?
    Thanks

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    1. Pick up all the wraps as you go! And let me know if you have any other questions!!! :)

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  40. Just found your lovely, elegant pattern. I love the short row shaping that leads to the three needle bind-off. Most hood patterns I’ve read involve sewing and I just “hate” to sew. Thank you for this terrific pattern!

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    1. So glad to hear you like it! I hate to sew too. ;) And let me know if you have any questions!!!

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  41. Hi I'm a beginner at knitting can you explain how to complete w&t pls

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    1. Yup, here's a link with a good tutorial. https://www.purlsoho.com/create/short-rows/

      Let me know if you have any other questions! :)

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  42. I love this hood and have made two already and am working on a third, but I’ve noticed that the opening is always a bit big and it leaves my neck too exposed. The rest of the hood fits fine though. I tried knitting 6 inches instead of 7 but it still was too big. Do you have any suggestions on how I can fix this to fit better?
    Thanks

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    Replies
    1. What about working some short rows at the base of the face opening when you pick up those stitches? Like, pick up ten stitches across the bottom, turn the work, purl across, picking up an extra two to five stitches past the ten, then turn and knit across, picking up extra stitches again? Keep working like that until you've created an extra flap that seems big enough, and then finish by picking up the rest of the stitches and knitting the four rows? I think that would work well, although you might have small gaps where you turn your work. It would still probably be warmer though!!! :)

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  43. Love this pattern. Going to give it a try. Hope mine turns out as good as yours. Have a couple of granddaughters that I think would love to have one. Thanks for sharing!

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    1. Wonderful! Let me know if you have any questions! :)

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  44. Gretchen, what is your row gauge for both the original pattern and the bulky pattern?

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    1. Hi there!

      I'm assuming about 24 rows for 4 inches tall in the original and 16 in the bulky. :)

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  45. I love this hood! I am ready to add the stitches around the face hole on my large hood, but somehow I only have 36 rows to work with. Shall I just continue with 72 stitches around, or should I try to add in one stitch at a regular interval to get a total of 110?

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    1. I'm not quite sure I'm understanding your problem, but the biggest issue is casting on the correct number of stitches for the length. How big is your opening? You need 18 stitches per four inches; if you cast on less, it will draw in, and more will make it bag out. Also, since knit stitches aren't square, you usually pick up about 3 stitches for every four rows. :)

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  46. Thanks for the quick response. My opening is about 24.5 inches in circumference. I'm fairly new to knitting, so my gauge isn't perfect. When you say 'pick up 3 stitches for every four rows' does that mean cast on 3 stitches in 4 rows?

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    1. Hi again!

      I'm always happy to help. :) And here's what I mean: When you're picking up stitches along the edge of your knitting, you're usually picking up stitches that will be knit perpendicularly to your existing knitting (if you were picking them up to travel in the same direction, you would have just kept knitting in the first place!). In that case, you're picking them up at the edge of a vertically knit piece. Typically, but not always, that translates to about 3 stitches added along the edge to every four vertical rows. I'm not sure if that makes it any clearer, though... I can try to track down a video if that would help more!

      Anyway, it's also totally ok to be a bit imperfect! What is your actual project gauge? Again, it's most important that your stitches along the face hole are simply consistent with what you've already done. :)

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    2. OK. I get it now and should finish this tomorrow. It has been super fun to knit!

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    3. Wonderful, so glad it's working out! :)

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  47. Hi Gretchen. I'd love to this in the small size for my four year old granddaughter. However my yarn is worsted weight with a gauge of 20 stitches to 10cm/4" using 4.5mm (US 7) needles. Have you any idea how I should adjust the pattern or change needle size to achieve the correct size with my yarn?

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    1. You know, I bet you'd get 18 stitches per four inches if you just go up to a size US 8 needle - then you can do the pattern as written! :)

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  48. So excited to have finally found a pattern with no point. Am semi familiar with short rows but want to be sure (as to prevent having to rip half apart), that I am clear on your instructions. In reading others questions/replies... You've stated.a)no need to deal w/any if the wraps until you're knitting all the way across at end of each side if short rows. So, don't do anything w/the wraps on row 3. Guess my question. Is: when and where would I pick up wrap.? Love this pattern. It pays to never give up!

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    1. Hi there!

      Yes, since the short rows are worked from the crown to the front, you won't have to pick up the wraps until you get to the middle row (the one that goes all the way across). That's short row 21 for the small, 23 for the medium, etc. Good luck, and let me know if you have any other questions! :)

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  49. Hi Gretchen! I LOVE this hood!! Would it be possible to knit this onto a cardigan? I'm knitting a bulky knit on size 9 needles, picking up 68 stitches at neck edge...…..???

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    1. I think you absolutely could! I recommend searching Ravelry for top down bulky weight cardigans. I bet you could find some shapes you like and make a few quick adjustments and make it work! :)

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    2. Hello. Wondering if you would please recommend a stitch count for chunky yarn? Specifically, Miss Babs K2.
      Thank you very much,
      Joan

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    3. I would recommend casting on 72 stitches with size 11 needles. Of course you will also have to make more modifications for the crown as well - I can help with some suggested adjustments, if you need, but I haven't knit this hat in this yarn weight so you may have to tinker a bit. :)

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  50. Oh, thank you much. That's a start. :) I will try it since this is the only hood pattern for me. I adore it's simplicity.

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    1. Perfect, let me know if you have any more questions. :)

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  51. Hi Gretchen, This has been a very satisfying project for a beginner knitter like me. I'm a little terrified of the short rows. I'm knitting European. Will it work if I follow this tutorial? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hi8oS2G50O8

    Many thanks,
    Catherine

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    1. Hi Catherine! I'm glad you like the pattern. :) And there are several different short row techniques, but you can use any of them to complete the hat - they should all work out more or less the same! Which means that, if you've found a tutorial or video you like, I encourage you to use it!!!

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    2. Thanks Gretchen for your speedy reply. Were you able to take a quick look at the link I sent? I'm just not even sure if it works for your pattern. The tutorial is doing a square and I'm having trouble imagining how it transfers to knitting on the round. -catherine

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    3. Hi again! Don't worry, by the time you get to the short rows you will also be working back and forth so everything will turn out! In general, when short row knitting, you need to be able to turn the work and then also deal with the places where the short rows join the other rows on both wrong side and right ride rows; even if you were working in the round, these principles would be the same. It's a learning curve but definitely not too difficult! And if you have more specific questions when you start let me know!

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  52. Hi Gretchen, I finally finished this project and my granddaughter was very pleased with it. Thanks for a great pattern.

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  53. Hi Gretchen, I finally finished this project and my granddaughter was very pleased with it. Thanks for a great pattern.

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  54. The link for how to do a three needle bind off isn't working. Did you take it down?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Nope but it wasn't my content in the first place! Here's another tutorial that looks good:
      https://kelbournewoolens.com/tips-and-tricks/three-needle-bind-off

      You can also just Google it and find videos if you prefer! :)

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  55. Hello,
    my name is Vanessa and I write from Rome.
    Could you please have this outline in Italian?
    in Italy no one can make this hat
    Thanks
    Vanessa

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Vanessa!

      Unfortunately I don't speak Italian. I suggest translating what you can with Google translate, and if there are any specific terms that don't make sense, you can ask me about them and I can link to a video. Hope that helps! :)

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    2. Dear Tracy, thank you very much for your message. You are very kind and your work is beautiful. I will try to understand the explanations without circular knitting needle and then I will let you know what I didn't understand, so you can give me a hand if you want.
      Warm regards,
      Vanessa

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    3. Perfect, I'm happy to help how I can! :)

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  56. When you pick up the stitches for the face opening do you then join them in the round. might be obvious but thought I would ask. Thank you.

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    1. Yes! I can't believe I didn't say that... Apologies! :)

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  57. Hi Tracy, It's a beautiful design. It worked up great. I am new to knitting so took some time to make one. However I got to try new techniques that I didn't know before. I might make them in different colours to match. Thank you.

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    1. Wonderful, I'm so glad to hear it! It's always nice to learn new techniques!!! :)

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  58. Hi there, I love the design! I want to make this hood but the yarn I'd like to use is a different gauge, do you think I could still try making it? 26st give 4" so it means I'd have to cast on about 174 sts but I'm not sure I can convert the short rows without messing up the pattern. Is there a formula you use for the short rows ratio that could be applied to different gauges? Thank you for taking the time to answer :)

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    Replies
    1. I actually created a spreadsheet that I can use to do this... Send me an email at ballstothewallsknits@gmail.com with your gauge for a 4" x 4" square and tell me which size you want and I'll send you what I have... Should help to plan the crown! :)

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  59. Hi... I really like this hood but wanted to turn it into a hooded scar but don't know at what, point of the hoodie to to make 2 long ends of scarf. If anyone can give suggestions that would be great

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Hi there! If it were me making it, I would start by casting on 40 (45; 50) stitches for one end of the scarf, working an edging if desired, and then working in stockinette until the scarf half measured the desired length. Then I would transfer my live stitches to scrap yarn to work later, and repeat the same process for the other half of the scarf. When both sides were done, I would place them next to each other on my needle and work them together, as in the pattern after the transition rows. The place where they join would likely need to be reinforced at the end, but you should end up with a hooded scarf! :)

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  60. Hi Gretchen, I'm just experiencing some confusion. I'm not sure which direction to knit the trim around the face in. Thanks, Catherine

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    Replies
    1. Hi Catherine!

      My "right side" (or knit side) is on the same side as the right side of the hood. I picked up the stitches from the right side, made a circle, and then knit. I believe it's the more intuitive way to do it as well, considering you would either have to pick up stitches from the wrong side or knit the interior of the circle somehow to do it the other way... Hope that helps!

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  61. Thank you so much for this wonderful pattern - I made it up in some soft, fine alpaca I had spun & it has been keeping my head warm in icy late winter winds ever since. Really appreciate your ingenuity & generosity"

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  62. Hi, I'm really interested in knitting that nice balaclava.
    As I do not really understand the knitting pattern (I'm German) I wonder if in the meantime there might maybe a YouTube video exist??

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    Replies
    1. Hi there! Unfortunately I don't have a video and I'm not knitting anymore due to injury so I can't make one. If you want to try making the hat anyway, I recommend using Google Translate to translate most of the pattern, and then I'm happy to help with any specific questions you might have. :)

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  63. Hi, I'm glad to see you are still active in this pattern. I'm stuck on where the stick markers are placed. I placed them evenlyly every 20 stitches for the ease of counting, but now I'm not sure where to move them to create the opening.

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    Replies
    1. Hi! The face opening happens at the stitch marker that also represents the row break; you can leave any other stitch markers in place, but go ahead and remove the stitch marker where you're creating the face opening when you start to work back and forth.

      Hope that helps! :)

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    2. Okay thank you!

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  64. Is there possibly a video tutorial on this pattern. Thank you

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    1. No, I'm sorry, there isn't and I'm not knitting any more so I can't make one. If there's something specific that's tripping you up I can try to find something to help though! :)

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  65. hiya, This is my first short row experience and I'm stuck at row 25 (L). Am I knitting that rown right across all the stiches from the first set of shoirt rows then carrying on *over* the crown or am I supposed to be starting back down at the transition row of the wrong side with the k1, pXX, W&T sets and working back *up to* the crown (after which I will leap into the seaming business, I suppose). The instructions don't indicate switching back down to the left side of the hood, so I'd love a little clarification. Thanks!

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    1. Hi! On this row you're changing the side that you're working the short rows on, so you're simply knitting once across the entire row and then you'll begin working short rows on the other side of the hat to make the other half of the crown. And since this is your first time doing short rows - don't forget to pick up all of those wraps and turns as you go! Good luck and let me know if you have any other questions. :)

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    2. Sorry for being daft, but my row 24 (purl to end, knit 1) leaves me on the "face" side of the hood; then, if I knit through that same side and carry on to the other side, then I'd be w&t on the face end of the other side of the hood. If I knit the first row on the other side of the hood (i.e. starting the decrease rows), then I'm knitting what should be a purl row. I'm knitting on circular needles.

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    3. Hi! I'm still struggling to understand your problem somewhat. For the entire "face hole" part of the hood, you've been knitting one stitch in garter at the edge of the face, since that will make it a bit easier to pick up your stitches there later. So, once you knit across for row 25, it's true that you will be working from the other side of the fabric (so performing your wraps & turns from the wrong side), but that should all work out. Row 26 reads, "k1, p48, w&t", so once you perform that one knit stitch at the edge of the hood to form your garter edge, you will be purling up to your wrap and turn. I hope that helps! :)

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    4. OMG. Someone on a knitting group just "said it differently" and I got it - you knit across *the whole thing*, all 100 stitches then turn (and same at the end, on row 50). I was stopping half way through, where the short rows ended. Hopefully my eureka moment will help someone else. Thanks. Now to finish this off!

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    5. Awesome! So glad you got it sorted out and please let me know if you have any other questions! :)

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  66. hello,
    my circular needles are not 16”, they’re 100 centimeters (39,37 inches). do you think i could make it work or should i get the 16”(40 cm) ones? thank you so much for sharing these instructions and i appreciate you answering everyone’s questions so diligently.
    lots of love
    -seda

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    Replies
    1. Hi Seda! I *think* that you could use your needle with the magic loop method... If you look up "magic loop knitting" you'll find a million videos and tutorials to choose from if you've never done it before. Hope that helps! :)

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    2. yes, it helps tremendously! i think i can make it work, thank you so much :)

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  67. Hi Sarah!

    Thanks so much for your kindness! I'm glad to hear that you like my website!!! :)

    As far as your question is concerned, I held it wrong sides together so that the ridge would be on the inside. Let me know if you have any more questions, and I hope your brother likes the hood!

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