Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, and I’m thrilled to share my latest crafting adventure with you: a super cozy and stylish hat and scarf set knit with bulky yarn.
There’s something so satisfying about creating your own winter accessories, and the chunky texture of bulky yarn makes the process incredibly fast and fun. Plus, imagine the compliments you’ll get when you tell everyone you made it yourself!
Choosing the Perfect Bulky Yarn
Bulky Rasta yarn hat and scarf
For this project, I was drawn to Malabrigo’s “Rasta” yarn. This super soft, hand-dyed yarn is a dream to work with and creates the most wonderfully plush knit fabric.
Pro Tip: While I adore the texture of Malabrigo Rasta, keep in mind that it requires hand-washing. Later on, I’ll share some fantastic machine-washable bulky yarn alternatives!
Let’s Get Started: Knitting the Hat
chunky knit hat in rasta
This hat is worked in the round using a simple knit one, purl one rib stitch. It’s a great project for knitters of all levels, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it works up.
Materials:
- Less than one skein of Malabrigo Rasta yarn
- Size 13 (US) – 16 inch circular needles
- Size 13 (US) double pointed needles (DPNs)
Instructions:
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Cast On and Join in the Round: Cast on 48 stitches, plus one extra stitch. Slip the last stitch to the left needle and knit the first two stitches together to join in the round. Ensure there’s no twisting of stitches.
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Knit the Body: Knit one stitch, then purl one stitch around the entire row. Repeat this row until your hat measures about 7 inches in height, or your desired length.
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Decrease for the Crown:
- Round 1: Knit 1, purl 1 (twice), knit 2 together. Repeat this pattern around the entire row.
- Round 2: Knit all stitches.
- Round 3: Knit 3, knit 2 together. Repeat around.
- Round 4: Knit all stitches.
- Round 5: Knit 2, knit 2 together. Repeat around.
- Round 6: Knit 2 together around the entire row.
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Bind Off: Cut the yarn, leaving a tail. Pull the tail through the remaining loops and weave in to secure.
Finishing Touches:
- Weave in all loose ends for a polished look.
- Add a playful pompom to the top of your hat if desired!
On to the Scarf: A Cozy Cable Knit
Bulky Rasta scarf white
This scarf features a simple yet elegant cable-like stitch that adds a touch of texture and visual interest. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to create this eye-catching design!
Materials:
- 2 skeins of Malabrigo Rasta yarn (or more for a longer scarf)
- Size 9 (US) straight needles
Instructions:
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Cable Cast On: Cast on 14 stitches (or any even number) using the cable cast on method. This creates a decorative, slightly raised edge.
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Establish the Pattern:
- Row 1: Knit 2 stitches. Purl 1, knit 1 to the last 2 stitches. Purl the last 2 stitches.
- Row 2 (and all following rows): With yarn in back, slip the first stitch purlwise. Knit 1 below, purl 1 to the last stitch. Purl the last stitch.
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Continue Knitting: Repeat Row 2 until you’ve used almost all of your yarn, ensuring you have enough to bind off comfortably.
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Bind Off: Bind off loosely to maintain the elasticity of the knitted fabric.
Exploring Machine-Washable Alternatives
Scarf and hat in bulky yarn
I know, I know – hand-washing can be a bit of a drag. If you’re looking for the same bulky yarn look and feel with the ease of machine-washing, check out these fantastic alternatives:
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Manos del Uruguay “Franca”: This 100% superwash merino wool yarn is incredibly soft and comes in a beautiful array of colors. It’s very similar in appearance and texture to Malabrigo Rasta but can be safely tossed in the washing machine (in a mesh laundry bag, of course!).
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Wool Addicts “Fire”: This luxurious Italian-made yarn has quickly become one of my favorites. It’s superwash, incredibly soft, and creates gorgeous stitch definition.
Remember: Always use a mesh laundry bag when machine-washing hand-knits to prevent stretching and tangling. Most hand-knit items, even when made with superwash yarn, will benefit from being laid flat to dry.
Share Your Creations with Robert Kline Art!
So, are you ready to cast on and create your own stunning bulky yarn hat and scarf set? I can’t wait to see your creations! Share your finished projects with me on social media using #RobertKlineArt – I love seeing what you make!
And for even more handmade gift inspiration, be sure to explore the unique selection of crafts available on the Robert Kline Art website. You’re sure to find the perfect one-of-a-kind gift for your loved ones (or yourself!). Happy crafting!