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When it comes to knitting, few things bring me more joy than discovering a pattern that not only captivates my creativity but also challenges my skills in a rewarding way. Recently, I stumbled upon such a gem—the Lewis Beanie, a delightful free knitting pattern that has quickly become a favorite in my collection. This cabled beanie, a sister to the popular Lewis Bonnet, offers a beautiful combination of intricate design and thoughtful decreases that make it a must-knit for any enthusiast.
A Love Affair with Cables
Cables have always fascinated me. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching those twisted stitches form elegant, rope-like patterns across the fabric. The Lewis Beanie takes full advantage of this technique, incorporating cables in a way that is both classic and contemporary. The result is a hat that not only keeps you warm but also adds a touch of sophistication to your winter wardrobe.
The pattern begins with a ribless brim that ensures a beautiful look right around the face. From there, the real magic happens as you work your way up into the cabled section. Each cable twist is meticulously placed, creating a rhythmic pattern that is as enjoyable to knit as it is to behold. For those new to cabling, the Lewis Beanie offers an excellent opportunity to practice and perfect this technique, while seasoned knitters will appreciate the pattern’s complexity and elegance.
Thoughtful Decreases
One of the standout features of the Lewis Beanie is the beautifully thought-out decreases. As any knitter knows, decreasing in a way that maintains the integrity of a pattern can be challenging, especially with cables involved. However, the designer has managed this with aplomb. The decreases are strategically placed, ensuring that the cable pattern remains consistent and harmonious all the way to the top of the hat.
As you reach the crown, the cables gracefully converge, creating a stunning finish that is both neat and visually appealing. This attention to detail not only enhances the overall look of the beanie but also adds to the satisfaction of completing such a well-crafted project.
Yarn Selection: From Discontinued to a Perfect Replacement
Initially, the Lewis Beanie pattern called for a specific yarn that has since been discontinued. While this could have been a stumbling block, it turned into an opportunity to explore alternatives. After some experimentation, I found that KnitPicks Altiplano made an excellent replacement.
KnitPicks Altiplano is a delightful yarn to work with. Its blend of wool and alpaca provides the perfect balance of warmth and softness, making it ideal for a cozy winter hat. The yarn has a lovely drape and stitch definition, which is crucial for showcasing the intricate cable work of the Lewis Beanie. Additionally, the range of available colors allows for personalization, letting you create a beanie that truly reflects your style.
The Joy of Sharing
One of the greatest joys of knitting is sharing your creations with others. The Lewis Beanie is no exception. Whether it’s a gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself, this beanie is sure to be appreciated. The timeless design means it will never go out of style, and the quality of the finished product speaks volumes about the care and effort that went into its creation.
In my own experience, gifting a hand-knitted item like the Lewis Beanie has always been met with delight. There’s something incredibly special about receiving a handmade gift—knowing that someone has invested their time and love into creating something just for you. It’s a tangible expression of care, and in a world where so much is mass-produced, it stands out as unique and meaningful.
Knitting as a Community
As I’ve delved deeper into the world of knitting, I’ve come to appreciate the sense of community that it fosters. Sharing patterns, tips, and finished projects with fellow knitters creates a bond that transcends geographical boundaries. The Lewis Beanie has been a wonderful addition to this communal experience.
I’ve enjoyed seeing how other knitters interpret the pattern, from their choice of yarn and color to the personal touches they add. Each finished beanie tells its own story, reflecting the individuality of its creator. Participating in online forums and social media groups has allowed me to connect with other knitters, exchange ideas, and celebrate our shared passion.
The Satisfaction of a Finished Project
There’s a profound sense of accomplishment that comes with finishing a knitting project, especially one as intricate as the Lewis Beanie. From the moment I cast on to the final stitch, every step of the process has been a labor of love. As I weave in the last ends and try on the completed beanie, I can’t help but feel a rush of pride and satisfaction.
The Lewis Beanie is more than just a hat—it’s a testament to the skill and creativity of knitters everywhere. It embodies the joy of crafting something beautiful and functional with your own two hands. Each stitch is a reminder of the hours spent in focused concentration, the learning curves navigated, and the artistic vision brought to life.
Encouragement for Fellow Knitters
If you’re considering knitting the Lewis Beanie, I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive in. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just starting out, this pattern offers a rewarding challenge that will expand your skills and result in a truly beautiful piece. Take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different yarns and colors.
Remember, knitting is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The satisfaction of seeing your efforts come to fruition in the form of a stunning, hand-knitted beanie is unmatched. So gather your needles, select your yarn, and embark on the delightful adventure that is the Lewis Beanie. Happy knitting!
Materials and Info
Materials – appx 60-125yds worsted weight (size 4) yarn, size 8 (5mm) dpn or circular needles, yarn needle, cable needle
Gauge: appx 4sts/inch in stockinette stitch Gauge is very important!
Sizes (appx finished head circumference) : newborn (13ins), baby (14.5ins), toddler (16ins), child (17.5ins), teen (19ins), adult (20.5 ins)
Stitch Key:
K – knit p – purl
ssk – slip, slip knit k2tog – knit 2 together sl – slip st
C3L – cable 3 left – sl next st to cable ndl, hold in front, k2, k1 from cable ndl
C3R – cable 3 right – sl next 2sts to cable ndl, hold in back, k1, k2 from cable ndl
Lewis Beanie Pattern
Newborn
Cast on 63sts
Round 1 – [k6, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 2 – repeat round 1
Round 3 – [k2, with yarn back sl2, k2, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 4 – [C3R, C3L, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – repeat round 3
Round 6 – repeat round 4
Round 7 – repeat round 1
Round 8 – repeat round 2
Repeat these 8 rounds until your work measures 4 ins from cast on edge
Decreases:
Round 1 – [ssk, k2, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (45sts)
Round 2 – [k4, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 3 – [ssk, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (27sts)
Round 4 – [k2,p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – [k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (18sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog] repeat [to] around (9sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining sts.
Weave in ends.
Baby
Cast on 70sts
Round 1 – [k6, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 2 – repeat round 1
Round 3 – [k2, with yarn back sl2, k2, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 4 – [C3R, C3L, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – repeat round 3
Round 6 – repeat round 4
Round 7 – repeat round 1
Round 8 – repeat round 2
Repeat these 8 rounds until your work measures 5 ins from cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1 – [ssk, k2, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (50sts)
Round 2 – [k4, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 3 – [ssk, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (30sts)
Round 4 – [k2,p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – [k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (20sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog] repeat [to] around (10sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining sts.
Weave in ends.
Toddler
Cast on 77sts
Round 1 – [k6, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 2 – repeat round 1
Round 3 – [k2, with yarn back sl2, k2, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 4 – [C3R, C3L, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – repeat round 3
Round 6 – repeat round 4
Round 7 – repeat round 1
Round 8 – repeat round 2
Repeat these 8 rounds until your work measures 6 ins from cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1 – [ssk, k2, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (55sts)
Round 2 – [k4, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 3 – [ssk, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (33sts)
Round 4 – [k2,p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – [k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (22sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog] repeat [to] around (11sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining sts.
Weave in ends.
Child
Cast on 84sts
Round 1 – [k6, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 2 – repeat round 1
Round 3 – [k2, with yarn back sl2, k2, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 4 – [C3R, C3L, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – repeat round 3
Round 6 – repeat round 4
Round 7 – repeat round 1
Round 8 – repeat round 2
Repeat these 8 rounds until your work measures 7ins from cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1 – [ssk, k2, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (60sts)
Round 2 – [k4, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 3 – [ssk, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (36sts)
Round 4 – [k2,p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – [k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (24sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog] repeat [to] around (12sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining sts.
Weave in ends.
Teen
Cast on 91sts
Round 1 – [k6, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 2 – repeat round 1
Round 3 – [k2, with yarn back sl2, k2, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 4 – [C3R, C3L, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – repeat round 3
Round 6 – repeat round 4
Round 7 – repeat round 1
Round 8 – repeat round 2
Repeat these 8 rounds until your work measures 8ins from cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1 – [ssk, k2, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (65sts)
Round 2 – [k4, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 3 – [ssk, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (39sts)
Round 4 – [k2,p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – [k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (26sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog] repeat [to] around (13sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining sts.
Weave in ends.
Adult
Cast on 98sts
Round 1 – [k6, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 2 – repeat round 1
Round 3 – [k2, with yarn back sl2, k2, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 4 – [C3R, C3L, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – repeat round 3
Round 6 – repeat round 4
Round 7 – repeat round 1
Round 8 – repeat round 2
Repeat these 8 rounds until your work measures 9ins from cast on edge.
Decreases:
Round 1 – [ssk, k2, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (70sts)
Round 2 – [k4, p1] repeat [to] around
Round 3 – [ssk, k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (42sts)
Round 4 – [k2,p1] repeat [to] around
Round 5 – [k2tog, p1] repeat [to] around (28sts)
Round 6 – [k2tog] repeat [to] around (14sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx 6-8ins. Pull tail through remaining sts.
Weave in ends.