Outlander Sockhead Hat

So in keeping with my school year resolution, I cast on for my first Sockhead using a limited edition color of Lorna’s Laces Shepherd Sock in Fraser.

I love the color orange and I debated whether or not to knit up a pair of socks or cast on for something else, and I don’t know why, but a hat using yarn named after Jamie seemed most appealing. I’m a late arrival to Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series and when I saw all the publicity for the Starz television show this summer, I knew I had to check out the book. I was not disappointed.

This is my first time making a hat with fingering weight yarn, so my patience and WIP commitment is being tested. Plus, I’m a bit unsure over the fit. I’ve read through a lot of modifications on Ravelry and I’ve cast on fewer stitches as well and have knit only 2 ¾ of the ribbing instead of 4. I will probably shorten the body of the hat from 9 to 6 inches too.

I have a really small head – so much so that I’ve been known to purchase children’s hats because they fit better. I do like the slouch look of the hat, but last year when I knit a SupahSlouch, I stayed true to the pattern and was disappointed with the excess fabric that pooled at the crown; it cascaded down my head and almost to my ears (which are also freakishly small in case you were wondering). It’s a fine line between Slouch and Elf, that’s all I’m saying.

While I’m digging my yarn, I’m still apprehensive about the final product. I’m using size 3 needles, although I think the pattern said 2.5. I feel like the fabric isn’t dense enough for a hat but before I make that decision I think I have to see it through. This may be another to frog or not to frog, I’m not sure. But regardless of how the FO turns out, I’m committing Fraser to a hat…

Which leaves me wondering what I should do with its companion, Beauchamps.

Since Jamie will be keeping my small head and even smaller ears warm, maybe Claire should keep my hands, um also kind of small, dry and toasty. I really want to be able to wear them together, and I prefer contrasting accessories rather than matchy-matchy (not that there’s anything wrong with that). Yes, I think mitts may be the thing. But until then…bon tricot!

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Bon Tricot

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