This design was inspired by berets sold by Hilda, Ltd., an Icelandic company started in the early 1960’s by an Icelander and her American husband. Their business operated in Reykjavik for almost 30 years, selling Icelandic wool garments and accessories.

Although this hat shape is not traditional to Iceland, the wool is. The various lengths of fiber in the long locks from Icelandic sheep are combined in the Lopi yarn to create a hairy, lightweight bulky yarn that sheds rain and snow. Three natural fleece colors were used for the patterning, which can be knit from written instructions or chart.

The beret is knit in the round without shaping to the crown where a special k2tog is worked to start the swirl patterning. It is finished with a hatband worked in single crochet over elastic cord to customize the fit. Instructions include an optional bobble to top the hat.

This design first appeared in the November/December 2011 issue of PieceWork magazine published by Interweave Press.

Skill Level: Intermediate