Like many people I’ve struggled through the Covid Pandemic of 2020. Not being able to meet with family and friends was and still is especially tough. Being of a high risk group I also had to stay home for around four months – not easy for someone who is used to being on the go all the time! However like many people during this time I’ve found solace in my crafts. I’ve made scrubs for the nhs, sewn face masks for all the family, spun up several kilos of fleece and the thing that has always given me most comfort in difficult times – knitted up a storm!
One night early in the pandemic when the U.K. was under lockdown I couldn’t get settled to sleep so I got up, got the sketch books out and scribbled out a few new ideas. The first of these is my Solace Beanie – there are also matching gloves. For the colour palette I chose shades from Jamieson & Smith which I find restful. Now the world is starting to (slowly) return to normal, I hope you can find peace and solace in knitting this too.

Materials

Jamieson & Smith 2ply jumper weight 100% Shetland wool (115m/25g) 1x 25g ball in each of the
following shades.
• A: shade 2001
• B: shade FC17
• C: shade FC34
• D: shade FC51
• E: shade 133
• F: shade 366

Notions

• 1 set 2.5mm DPN or preferred method for working in the round for rib.
• 1 set 3mm DPN or preferred method for working in the round for body.
• You may wish to change to DPN for working the crown if using circular needles.
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends. • Balloon or hat blocker.
• Stitch marker

Tension

28 sts and 32 rows to 10cm over colourwork after blocking. Use 3mm needles as start point for checking gauge. Please check gauge carefully and adjust your needle size accordingly.

Size

One size to fit average size adult head. Finished circumference 58cm/23inches