Why is life so busy?  It seems like just yesterday I was posting, but it has been a while.  In my absence though, many things have happened, including taking out awards at the National Shakespeare Festival.  I have to admit to spending more time in the theatre of late, and less time behind the needles.  However, there are patterns that need to be shared.

The Supporters Beanie Knitting Pattern

It is winter here in New Zealand, and too many of our sports take place outdoors in the cold.  This hat is perfect for coaches, supporters, parents… anyone on the sidelines cheering.  You can change up the colours to support your team.

You will need:
– 8ply double knit yarn
– 5mm needles (straight or circular, both instructions will be given)
– Darning needle for the ends.

Cast on 88 stitches in your supporting colour.  I used blue here.  You can join in the round, or knit on straight needles.

Repeat 20 rows of the Knit 2, Purl 2 rib.  This is the same for both circular or straight needles.

Change to the main colour.  I used maroon.

Circular instructions:  Knit 22 rotations.
Straight instructions:  Alternating knit and purl rows, complete 22 rows.

Change to the supporting colour.

Circular instructions:  Knit 2 rotations.
Straight instructions:  Alternating knit and purl rows, complete 2 rows.

Change back to the main colour.

Circular instructions:  Knit 4 rotations.
Straight instructions:  Alternating knit and purl rows, complete 4 rows.

Change to supporting colour.

Circular instructions:  Knit 2 rotations.
Straight instructions:  Alternating knit and purl rows, complete 2 rows.

Change back to the main colour.

Circular instructions:  Knit 2 rotation.
Straight instructions:  Alternating knit and purl rows, complete 2 rows.

Starting the decrease: Knit 3, knit 2 together.  Repeat until the end.
Circular: Knit 1 rotation.
Straight:  Purl 1 row.

Both:  Knit 2, knit 2 together.  Repeat until the end.
Circular: Knit 1 rotation.
Straight:  Purl 1 row.

Both:  Knit 1, knit 2 together.  Repeat until the end.
Circular: Knit 1 rotation.
Straight:  Purl 1 row.

Both:  Knit 2 together.  Repeat until the end.
Circular: Knit 1 rotation.
Straight:  Purl 1 row.

Both:  Knit 2 together.  Repeat until the end.
Cut the yarn with 25cm remaining.  Thread these stitches onto your yarn tail with the needle.  Darn in your ends.