Be warm balaclava

The balaclava is one of this season’s biggest must-haves. The combination of hat and collar keeps both neck and head warm while looking chic.  This balaclava pattern is a canvas for your creativity, inviting you to play with color combinations! The pattern is worked using two colors of yarn, so it is a wonderful opportunity to create a balaclava from any color or simply to use your stash yarn!  The balaclava is worked from top to bottom, using two strands of yarn. First, the top square is knitted in a stripe pattern, then, stitches are casted along three sides of the square, and the balaclava is knitted back and forth in stripes. After that, balaclava is joined in the round, and 1 x 1 rib is worked. Finally, the ribbing in a 1 x 1 rib pattern across the face opening is worked. Stitches are casted off using the Italian bind-off technique for more elasticity.  Begin your knitting adventure by crafting a swatch, a small but crucial step to ensure that your balaclava is not only a fashion statement but also a perfect fit. **SIZE** 1 (2) Fits head circumference 55-57 (57-59) cm [ 21.7-22.4 (22.4-23.2)” ]. **MEASUREMENTS** Measured with the balaclava lying flat on its side. * width: 19 (22.5) cm [7.5 (8.75)”] * height: 28 (31) cm [11.25 (12.25)”] **GAUGE** 12 sts x 21 rounds = 10 x 10 cm [ 4 x 4’’ ] on 6 mm [ US 10 ] needles, in st st (two strands of yarn), after blocking.  **NEEDLES** 5.5 mm [ US 9 ] and 6 mm [ US 10 ] 40 cm [ 16” ] and 60 cm [ 24” ] or longer (for knitting using the magic loop technique while knitting in the round) circular needles.  **YARN** MC: 2 skeins of Borstet Alpakka by Sandnes Garn (96% brushed alpaka, 4% nylon, 50 g / 110 m [ 120 yds ]), colorway 2016. CC: 1 skein of Borstet Alpakka by Sandnes Garn (96% brushed alpaka, 4% nylon, 50 g / 110 m [ 120 yds ]), colorway 1012. You will need only two skeins for the smallest size and no striped version! **NOTIONS** Measuring tape, darning needle, scissors.  In case you are not familiar with some of the techniques additional videos will help you to understand the instructions - [click here.][1] Check other hats on Instagram - [#bewarmbalaclava][2]. [1]: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnxknMrMtDCOtzGJ0NrhOfJNRIb4LrNR5&si=tlLebQDvEE86z0Al [2]: https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/bewarmbalaclava/