Barbara Balaclava The Barbara Balaclava is worked from the top down in stockinette stitch. First, a square is worked for the top of the head. Stitches are then picked up and knitted along both sides of the square, and short rows are worked to shape the crown. The balaclava is then worked straight down before being joined in the round below the chin. The neck is worked in the round in stockinette stitch and finished with a rib edge. Finally, a rib edge is worked along the face opening. Sizes S (M) L Designed to fit head circumference: 54–56 (56–57) 57–59 cm Finished Measurements Size S M L Width laid flat (cm) 20 21 22 Yarn Requirements Suggestion 1 – Fingering + Mohair (held together) Merino by Knitting for Olive (50 g = 250 m)orSunday by Sandnes Garn (50 g = 235 m) Size S M L Meterage required (m)* 250 250–500 500 *If using Sunday (235 m per 50 g), meterage will be approx. 235 (235–470) 470 m. Held together with: Soft Silk Mohair 2ply (25 g = 225 m)or similar (approx. 212–225 m per 25 g) Size S M L Meterage required (m) 225–450 450 450 Needles Circular needles:3 mm (40 and 80 cm)2.5 mm (40 cm)2 mm (40 cm) Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain correct gauge. Gauge 24 stitches × 38 rows = 10 × 10 cm in stockinette stitch on 3 mm needles Construction • Worked top down• Square crown construction• Short rows shape the head• Joined in the round below chin• Neck worked in the round• Rib edge at neck and face opening Skill Level ★ ★ ★Intermediate – suitable for knitters comfortable with short rows and working in the round.
