Hoods and Balaclavas: The Ravelry Trend I Didn't Expect
It’s always fascinating to log on to Ravelry and check out what the hottest patterns are, and this winter, there’s been a definite buzz around one specific type of accessory: knitted hoods and balaclavas. Back in October, designer Laura Nelkin launched the Cowltopus MKAL , a knitted hood with an intriguing design that seems to have sparked an interest in hoods and balaclavas more generally. I don't recall knitted hoods or balaclavas being this popular in all the time I've been on Ravelry. Even in winter the usual trend has been for hats, scarves and cowls. But this year looks a bit different. Right now, seven of the top 50 patterns by indie designers on Ravelry are hoods or balaclavas. That compares to four hats in the top 50. Let’s take a closer look at the designs that are hot right now (all links open in Ravelry): 1. Cowltopus MKAL by Laura Nelkin The design that may have started it all, Cowltopus MKAL by Laura Nelkin, is a whimsical hood that blends textures and colours....
