This winter, it seems like everyone will stylishly sport the 1930s knitted beret (that's Joan Crawford in 1928 by the way).

Here's a very simple and rapidly-made beret in a chunky knit. I used Rowan Cork (thank you Bryony!) which is chunky without being bulky and therefore a good choice, especially if you like to see the stitch definition to add to that 1930s feel. It's knit flat rather than in the round (1930s style...), but the joined seam is hidden in the pattern made by the increases.


50g Rowan Tweed (I've used Ivy), one pair of 8mm straight needles, one pair of 5mm straight needles, a tapestry needle.
Gauge is not too critical, but if you knit very tightly and/or have a big head, you may prefer to use 6mm needles for the rib.


Cast on 3 stitches

Purl all odd rows through rows 1 - 21

Row 2: knit, increasing in every stitch (6 sts)
Row 4: knit, increasing in every stitch (12 sts)
Row 6: K1, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (18 sts)
Row 8: K1, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (27 sts)
Row 10: K2, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (36 sts)
Row 12: K3, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (45 sts)
Row 14: K4, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (54 sts)
Row 16: K5, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (63 sts)
Row 18: K6, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (72 sts)
Row 20: K7, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (81 sts)
Row 22: K8, increase in next stitch, repeat to end (90 sts)

Work 9 rows in stocking stitch, ending on a purl row

Row 32: K8, K2tog, repeat to end (81 sts)

Work 9 rows in stocking stitch, ending on a purl row

Change to 5mm needles and work 9 rows K1 P1 rib

Cast off, leaving a long tail (40cm) to sew up.

Pin right sides together and sew up back seam. Finish in ends.

I found it looked best with a brooch pinning the crown to the rib to make it sit gracefully asymetrical.


This is an offering for Whiplash, in the tutorial category.