My New Favorite Knitting Book: HIP KNIT HATS, by Cathy Carron

It is winter, after Christmas, nothing to look forward to.  This time of year in our family is called Janu-Feb.  The dark, cold time of year when there is little to look forward to until June if you live in the northern United States.  Sooooooo, what better to do than light the fireplace, put on a Jane Austen movie, (BBC, “Emma”, my new favorite)  and knit small projects.

I have recently come across this book “Hip Knit Hats”, by Cathy Carron.  This book has 40 great designs, every one a wonderful, fun, not-to-difficult project.  The felted hats caught my eye.  Knit on large needles, with bulky yarn, simple pattern.  Throw in the top loader washing machine with hot water, and a couple cycles later, WHA-LA a hat felted, warm and funky!  Embellish with large felted flowers.  Wear it and brighten up any dark winter day!  While your at it start knitting hats for next Christmas, get a jump on the holiday rush!

The book has instructions for felting, but if you have a front loading machine, just heat up some water, to hot, not boiling, pour in a clean bucket, add a few drops of dish soap and stir with a wooden spoon, agitating until the fibers felt together.  Rinse, form and let dry, really quite simple.  There are several videos on You-Tube if you have any questions.

I love this book, give it a try!