“Harmonic curve” is a mathematical term describing a parabola, or a U-shaped curve formed by the intersection of a plane and a cone. Musically, it is the term for the shape of a harp’s neck (the piece across the top). A curve is necessary so the harp’s strings can change in length rapidly as the notes get higher. The exact shape of this piece varies depending on the luthier (harpmaker). On both pedal and lever harps, the harmonic curve will resemble the design depicted on the crown of this tam.

Difficulty: Intermediate.

Skills needed: Longtail cast-on, knit, purl, working in the round, decreasing, following a colorwork pattern from a chart.

Construction: The hat is worked in the round from the bottom up. Work is begun on a circular needle, switching to dpns for crown decreases. Because the hat is worked in the round, all rows on all charts are read from right to left.

Yarn shown in photos:
Black / Multi: Kertzer On Your Toes Bamboo, 75% viscose, 25% nylon, 328 yd / 300 m, black, 1 skein; Crystal Palace Mini Mochi, 80% merino wool, 20% nylon, 195 yd / 179 m, color 110 (Jungle), 1 skein.
Brown / Cream: Frog Tree Sport, 100% alpaca, approx. 130 yd / 119 m. Colors #000 (off-white) and 008 (brown), 1 (2, 2) skeins of each color.
Or feel free to substitute approx. 195 yd / 179 m each of two colors of sock / sportweight yarn. The main color (background) uses slightly more yardage than the contrasting color (foreground).

A pattern for coordinating Harmonic Curve Wristwarmers is available separately.