I’ve always wanted a Red Beret. One day I plan to be that mature and eccentric lady with bright red lipstick and a red beret. Maybe that’s when I’ll finally get a big ol’ tattoo as well.

This red beret is a free pattern called Marie-Eve by Julie Asselin. It was a fast and enjoyable knit with enough stitch variation to keep it interesting. It starts with a two by two rib, then goes on to some beautiful lacework around the brim and finally a simple stockinette for the crown.

I  used a rich red alpaca yarn that Donatello brought back from Colombia. The yarn came on a big cone, so I’m not exactly sure how much yarn I used. The alpaca yarn has a beautiful drape to it but seems to keep the shape of the lace quite well.

The beret is more of a pretty accessory than a functional winter-proof hat since it is very light. It is definitely designed for a crisp fall day rather than a Canadian February.

This is the medium size which measures 26cm /10 in in diameter and makes a loose, floppy style beret. I used 40cm/ 16 in circular needles in size 2.5mm/ US 1.5.

It looks like we have a thing for berets here on Kiku Corner, as this is the fifth beret project featured here. However, this is the first knit one, as the other four were crocheted. See them here.

I’d also love to try this pattern using some different yarns. A rich mohair would be super cozy while a tonal or variegated yarn would also make an interesting accessory.

Get the free pattern on Ravelry here.

The post DIY: Knit Red Beret, the Marie-Eve by Julie Asselin appeared first on Kiku Corner.