Centuria Tam by Franklin Habit

Centuria Tam

Knitting
April 2014
yarn held together
Fingering
+ Fingering
= Fingering (14 wpi) ?
5 stitches and 8 rows = 1 inch
in Stockinette stitch with 2 strands held together
US 4 - 3.5 mm
436 yards (399 m)
11" across top after blocking fits head sizes 20"–23" (adult small to medium)
English
This pattern is available from yarn.com for $5.99.

The Centuria Tam is a stunning lace tam that is knit from the crown-down using Valley Yarns Huntington held double. This hat is designed by Franklin Habit, accomplished knitting designer and historian of the fiber arts. The story of the inspiration of his design is a fascinating one:
“When WEBS asked me to celebrate their anniversary with a pattern, I decided (as I often do) to look to knitting history for inspiration. What is an anniversary, after all, if not a time to think over the past?
In 1874, exactly a century before WEBS opened its doors, the legendary American magazine Godey’s Lady’s Book tempted subscribers with an octagonal counterpane that mixed texture and lace to very striking effect.
I wasn’t in the mood for a counterpane, but I did think something of the kind would look well as the top of a perky little tam. Here it is– perfect for keeping off the autumn chill or for flinging into the air in a celebratory fashion.”

Finished Measurements: 11” across top after blocking
fits head sizes 20”–23” (adult small to medium)

Yarn Requirements: 1 sk Valley Yarns Huntington Hand-Dyed by Lorna’s Laces - this yarn has been discontinued and is no longer available (75% Superwash Merino/25% Nylon, 100g/436 yds), color Catalpa
OR
Yarn Requirements: 2 sks Valley Yarns Huntington (75% Superwash Merino/25% Nylon, 50g/218 yds), color Natural

Needle(s): 2 US size 4 (3.50 mm) 24” circular needles

Gauge: 5 sts and 8 rnds = 1” in St st, worked in the round with 2 strands of yarn held together