“Encaustico” is a variation of “encaustic” which is a type of artwork created using beeswax-infused color attached with heat. Some of the first true encaustic tiles were found Ancient Greece, The term was later erroneously applied to ceramic tiles in the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The motifs of this hat are reminiscent of those fabulous tiles of an earlier time.
This hat is constructed from the bottom up without shaping until the crown is worked creating a slouched shape when worn. Stitches are picked up around the bottom edge and worked to create a lining for added warmth. An applied I-cord edging is worked for additional color and added stability along the lower edge,
The Encaustico Hat is accompanied by the Encaustico Mittens.
Encaustico Hat
Finished size:
21 in. (53 cm) around base, 11 in. (28 cm) bottom to top. (Note: Use larger needles for larger size.)
Gauge:
30.5 sts/36.75 rnds = 4 in. (10.16 cm)
Materials:
Yarn – Mountain Meadow Wool, Saratoga, 2ply Fingering. 250 yds (2 oz)
Shade A – Lupine, 200 yrds
Shade B - Cowboy Brown, 200 yrds
Shade C – Salmon, 100 yrds
Needles - US 4 (3.50 mm) and US 2 (2.75 mm) needles for preferred method of working small circumferences (i.e. 2 circulars, Magic Loop, or double pointed needles).
Stitch markers, Locking stitch markers (8), Tapestry needle, Small Scissors.