Whether it’s in the store, on-line via email or on the phone we are constantly answering knitting and crocheting questions.  Now I’m sure there isn’t just one person out there with this or that question so we decided to post some of those questions and answers here so everyone can benefit, learn and keep their needle (crochet) or needles (knitting) going.   As we answer more and more questions you’ll be able to refer to them via the search feature right here on the blog…

So Elaine writes:

“need help with a beret.. the ribbing is too loose!!! what to do (short of tearing the whole thing out. It is a wool blend, and I guess I should have used an even smaller needle for the ribbing, but ever have this problem? Can I tear out from the start where the ribbing is or weave in some elastic thread? Or a ribbon? shucks.”

Answer:  Yes, you can rip it out the whole thing and start over but that’s not fun now is it?  I suggest running a piece of elastic thread (on the wrong side) around the circumference of the beret every 3 to 4 rows for the length of the ribbing.  This will effectively draw the edge of the beret in, giving it a more snug fit.  If you’d like to be more decorative you can weave a piece of ribbon (on the right side) through the stitches then tie a bow or weave the ribbon ends in on the wrong side.  Either will solve the problem and give you the desired effect.

Now for future reference, the best piece of advise I can give you is to trust yourself.  If it looks too big, too small, or just not quite right, STOP!! Try it on,  measure it or review your pattern.  If you sense a mistake there may be a mistake.  Patterns are not perfect, designers are not perfect.  Patterns have mistakes.  So if the numbers just don’t add up, it may not be you, it could be the pattern.

Hope that helps.  Here ends Needle Tip #1.  Stay tuned for more.

To all our wonderful friends and customers we are always happy to help with your projects and questions. Please feel free to contact us here, by phone or email anytime.

Happy Knitting,

Denise