Zima is a classic beret crocheted with lofty Post stitch rib for added structure and detail of crisp curved lines. Despite using the softest, cashmere-like 16 micron merino in fingering weight, the resulting fabric is surprisingly squishy and dense in order for the beret to hold its shape, which makes it easy to style.

Pattern Notes: The beret is worked from the top down in one piece, starting with an optional slip stitch ‘stem’ or a magic ring if you prefer a version without the stem. After a hdc set-up round, the crown is worked in Post stitch rib in the round, in 10 segments. It’s first shaped with increases, then decreases, along the same ‘spine’ of fpdc stitch column. Finally, even rows create the brim.
Turning chains or slip stitches used to join the round are not included in stitch counts.

Materials: 2 skeins Urth 16 Fingering, shown in BL 20

Sizes: to fit 21-23.5”
/53-60 cm wearer’s head circumference

Dimensions: 13”/33 cm brim circ. at the opening, unstretched;
28.75”/73 cm circ. at the widest point, laying flat, unstretched;
7.75”/19.5 cm height not including 0.4”/1 cm stem

Hook: US C-2 to D-3/3.00 mm, or size needed to obtain correct gauge

Notions: Tapestry needle, 10 locking stitch markers (optional)

Gauge: 30 sts x 18.5 rows in Post stitch rib, unstretched = 4’’/10 cm square

Skills: Intermediate level pattern.
The techniques involved are: crocheting flat, crocheting in the round, slip stitch, half double crochet stitch, post stitches, crocheting into back loop only, increasing & decreasing, slip stitch seaming