It wasn't even on my radar, but since BF and I were in clean-up mode over the holiday break and I rediscovered this lost project from last January, I decided to finish it. I was only about 20% done, but since it's double stranded worsted weight yarn (Cascade 220) knit on US Size 11 needles, it knits up amazingly fast. In no time at all, I was done with the hat, before the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Here's BF modeling the finished knit hat... pre-felting, of course.
In case you want to make your own, it's Deb's Derby by Cascade Yarns and it's a free download.
The trick with a felted hat, is that you really have to keep an eye on it, or it will felt too much before you know it. Remember - felting is more of an art than a science. I checked every few minutes and was fortunate enough to pull it out at the perfect time.
I fitted the wet hat on my head (for the perfect fit) and shaped the brim. I like the bowler look for my derby. There are many options - but this is my favorite. Once it dries, I'll model the hat for you.
Here's my first Felted Derby from 2004. It's my favorite to this day.
Hmm. I look so much younger in this picture. I guess I was. Here's hoping the green hat is equally as happy and worn nearly as much.
LOVE THAT HAT! It looks as fabulous as the blue one. You are an inspiration. The felted hat is also going on the "to do someday" list.
Posted by: Carol King | Monday, January 04, 2010 at 16:36
I LOVE felted hats! It's fantastic in snowy weather or even rainy weather. Your head stays dry & warm. It looks great on you too!!
Posted by: Rhonda the StitchingNut | Sunday, January 03, 2010 at 12:53
BF looks great too :)
Posted by: Erika | Sunday, January 03, 2010 at 06:15
LOVE that hat.
Posted by: kat | Saturday, January 02, 2010 at 23:20
Thank you for sharing! I have a girlfriend that will love the derby. Both your hats are beautiful.
Posted by: Vicki Johnson | Saturday, January 02, 2010 at 21:23
Very nice! I might have to try that pattern.
Posted by: Lorette | Saturday, January 02, 2010 at 17:06
Very nice!
Posted by: Sara | Saturday, January 02, 2010 at 14:40
Your felted hat is really cute. I must bookmark it and give it a try sometime. Not sure though how my frontloader will felt. Guess I'll have to do a test run first and go from there ;)
Posted by: hakucho | Saturday, January 02, 2010 at 09:43
Love the green! You were wearing the blue derby the first time I met you.
Posted by: Estella | Saturday, January 02, 2010 at 07:28
Cool hat. I'll remember to cross my fingers next time I felt something:)
Posted by: Acornbud | Saturday, January 02, 2010 at 02:28