From camouflage to over-dyed

I keep on with my goal of knitting patterns from my library. Colden is my first wool headband. This is a design from the book “American Spun: 20 Classic Projects Exploring Homegrown Yarn“. Anna Sudo, the author, includes twenty designs and several articles about yarns made in the United States of America.

I followed four pattern charts to complete this. It was not a “happy hour” suitable project. Per the pattern photos, there are two ways of styling the headband. One can have the knot up or down.

I knit with stashed fingering weight yarn. But, the original color striping did not favor the cabling texture. I then over-dyed the headband using acid dyes. The new color is rich; I am pleased with the result.

There was a lot of effort for a headband that I might or might not use. Seeing the glass half full: I am a more confident knitter today. Charts gave me headaches and hiccups not so long ago. I have now proved to myself that I have the patience to follow them. It is a good feeling!

Pattern:Colden from “American Spun: 20 Classic Projects Exploring Homegrown Yarn
Yarn:Patons Kroy Socks FX in Camo. Over-dyed with Sabraset acid dyes.
Project yardage:60 yards (55 m)
Knitting Needles:US 4 (3.5 mm)
Project Measurements :5.5″wide x 28.0″ long (13.9 cm x 71.1 cm)
Modifications:Slip first stitches for every row
Ravelry:Project page

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There are thousands of Rikke hats in this beautiful and chaotic world. Why is this free pattern so popular? The pattern can be easily adjusted to any yarn weight and looks great in semi-solids, variegated, commercial and/or handspun yarns. Also, the garter stitch makes it for a comfortable and squishy hat.

This is my second handspun Rikke. Doubt it will my last.

Modifications to the pattern:

  • Handspun yarn wraps per inch = 16. Due to the inconsistency of the handspun, I would it classify as DK weight. Pattern was written for Worsted weight.
  • Cast on 82 stitches.
  • Placed marker every 14 stitches for decreases (only 12 stitches following the last marker). Knit two together (K2tog) and knit one after each marker whenever there were sufficient stitches. Started decrease sequence after each marker.

Ravelry link to project page.