Topknotched hat # 2

I like the helmet style of the first topknotched hat so went looking for a fabric similar for the second one but then this sweater gave me a nod from the stash.  It's wool and acrylic and I didn't want to felt it, in any case, and lose that wonderful texture, so I decided to go with a different design but still have the opening for the topknot.

This very simple black hat came to mind so I got it out and tried it on and decided it would work as a topknotched hat translated into the purple sweater material.  Cutting…..  and then trying it with the waistband around the face – nope, didn't look right, so then the cut end – yes, much better, had potential….. narrow it to head size;  take in at both sides or have the sides meet near the back and fill in the space……latter method was chosen.  Was all pinned together until this point and then sewn on the machine using a fat, long stitch.  Etc. Etc.

This is it.  The black hat design got modified to a more Dutch look with the points rounded on the inside and then pushed in to form dimples.

It is architectural, housing the head, and gives a comfortable, spacious shelter, covering the ears.

The opening at top is a slit and because of the more relaxed fabric than the felted first hat, the topknot is held well with a single notch.

Oh, they are fun to wear.  Today, in the grocery store, a clerk leaned over the counter toward me and in an almost whisper she asked, "Is that a hole in your hat with your hair coming through?" and when I said it was she looked both pleased and relieved.  I wonder what she was thinking.

Next I would like to make one from linen,  two or three layers, and machine stitch freefrom embroidery to hold these together.  Again in the helmet shape.  Maybe line it with a flannel for warmth and also make it reversible.