This pattern is freely available as part of the Sketchbook Project. The pattern is part of a short story suitable for children of all ages, called Not Nessie. It is an illustrated story of discovery introducing some of the places and wildlife that feature in my village of Drumnadrochit in the Scottish Highlands.

The idea was to share the people, places and animals that I love with a wider audience. I also wanted to expand the storytelling experience beyond hearing words and seeing pictures. The headband is a beautiful accessory but also a tactile way to experience the story.

The entire book is handwritten and illustrated by me as part of the project. This felt intensely personal and special compared to editing via laptop.

The pattern is designed to be knitted in a chunky skein of sustainable naturally dyed yarn from Loch Ness Knitting, which is hand dyed by me using materials gathered from the Drumnadrochit area.

You can visit the Sketchbook Project in person to view the book or view it online.