Winter is coming, and that means one thing: beanies! I absolutely love knitting and crocheting, and I'm always on the hunt for the perfect yarn to create the coziest, warmest hats possible. I've spent a lot of time experimenting with different fibers, and I'm excited to share my findings with you.
I started my journey with a simple goal: to create a beanie that could withstand even the coldest winter days. I live in an area where the temperatures can drop significantly, and I wanted a hat that would truly keep me warm. I quickly realized that not all yarns are created equal. Some are softer, some are more durable, and some are simply warmer than others.
One of the first things I considered was durability. I wanted a hat that would last for years, not just a single season. I also wanted it to be comfortable to wear. Scratchy yarn is a big no-no! So, I began researching different types of wool and other natural fibers.
I was initially thinking about a single-layer beanie, but then I had an idea: what if I made a double-layered hat? This would provide extra insulation and warmth. I decided to experiment with different combinations of fibers for the inner and outer layers. This approach made a significant difference!
I learned that for maximum warmth, the inner layer should be made of a super warm fiber like alpaca, angora, or yak. These fibers are incredibly soft and insulating. The outer layer, on the other hand, should be made of a more durable wool or a natural fiber blend. This outer layer would protect the inner layer from wear and tear.
I tried several different types of yarn, and I learned a lot along the way. Here are some of my key findings:
I also learned to avoid synthetic fibers, especially for certain professions. For example, I discovered that some workers, like linemen, are often not allowed to wear synthetic materials because of the risk of them melting to the skin in case of electrical or fire hazards. Natural fibers are always the safest bet.
After much experimentation, I found my go-to yarn combination for a super warm and durable beanie: alpaca for the inner layer and a sturdy wool blend for the outer layer. This combination provides the perfect balance of warmth, comfort, and durability.
I even tried a specific pattern called the "1898 Hat" using Plymouth Yarn's Hearty Homestead. I made one for my dad and grandma, and they both said it was the warmest hat they had ever worn! I would recommend adding a few extra rows to the headband portion if you have a larger head, as the pattern tends to run a bit small.
Another option I explored was the Musselburgh hat, which is double thick and highly customizable. I'm currently knitting one with Knit Picks Hawthorne, and I'm confident it will be incredibly warm. Using superwash wool makes it easy to care for, too!