Knit Hats with Woolly Wormhead

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Updated 01 Apr 2021

"I really appreciated the volume and variety of projects in this book. There are projects for every skill level. They are modern and fresh. I want to knit many of these. I love the authors added insight on fit and picking certain patterns based on how you would wear the hat, what face shape, etc.

Much detail and photos were added for more difficult techniques (ex. german short rows, provisional cast on) Saves from having to go google them.

"My two complaints are:

1) Why are there separate categories for women's hats and men's hats. Most of the hats in the book could be for either gender, and I find it really disheartening that patterns are still being gendered. Think outside the box. Many of the "womens" hats would do well on a man. And there were actually only a few mens designs included anyhow.

2) This is a book about hats. With all the detail added, I feel a picture or two, of how to properly measure your head for determining what size hat to make. As well as a chart of common head sizes (toddler, child, teen, adult) if you a making a gift."

— Cindy Jensen, Librarian at Waunakee Public Library

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 31 Mar 2021

"Woolly Wormhead does it again!

"This pattern book is full of hat patterns that you could never find anywhere else. No other designer has Woolly's eye for the unusual. Like to knit flat? No problem, you can knit a short row hat sideways. Prefer a soft slouch? It's here. Earflaps? Sure, why not. Most of these patterns would be ranked intermediate, but there are some that are quite simple. Whatever your preference, there's something for everyone here.

"The patterns are well-organized, well-written, and there are plenty of photos and easy charts. My only complaint is that some of the abbreviations had me looking in the glossary, and I'm no newbie. Fortunately, the explanations are clear and easy to find. Personally, I found that the hats run small. I don't have an exceptionally big head, but I always knitted the largest size when testing these.

"All of these patterns can be purchased individually on Ravelry, but I highly recommend getting the book. If you're a fan of handknit hats, you'll need this in your library.

"Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing a copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review."

— Sarah Czarnecki, Reviewer at Jam-Packed Bookshelf

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 29 Mar 2021

"I am so excited about this book. Wooly Wormhead’s hat patterns are my favorites so of course I jumped at the chance to take a peak of this book. The photographs are beautiful and patterns well written. I’m already planning on casting on soon!"

— Samantha Williams, Reviewer at Yarn Reader Youtube channel

If you want to knit a plain, ribbed beanie, read on. While there are hats contained in these pages that could pass for the same clever Staggered And Ledger beanies to wit, nonconformance is more Woolly Wormhead's game. Rather than plop a new cable on a tried-and-true shape, Woolly is more interested in the sculptural and engineering possibilities of hats. Evoking both the past and the future, these 22 hat patterns - 12 for women and five for men, which could all be unisex, and five for kids - represent adventures in construction, stitches, color and fashion while also keeping heads warm and toasty.

Take the delightful, swirly Torsione that culminates with five points at the crown, or Skelter with its traveling stitches, split back with a garter-stitch brim, or the adorable kid cap called Selkie, which has stripes, earflaps with points, and an elven, futuristic vibe.

Though she calls herself a "hat architect," she is also a wizard, allowing the wearers of her creations to spin new narratives about themselves simply by changing their headwear. If you put on a cloche, are you Daisy Buchanan? And what about a brimmed cap? Is it suddenly 1972? Yes, but winking all the while.

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 27 Mar 2021

"When life for the entire galaxy and planet has turned on its end, you are continuing to #maskup and #lockdown to be in #COVID19 #socialisolation as the #secondwave ( #thirdwave ?)is upon us, superspeed readers like me can read 300+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book … and many more today.

"I requested and received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review.

"From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do . [smiling cat emoji]

"International hat-knitting icon Woolly Wormhead is known for her unique, innovative hat designs and is followed the world over by avid fans. This collection of her work includes patterns for 22 of her designs: 12 patterns for women, 5 men’s designs, and 5 hats for kids. The special elements in her designs—such as cables, textures, and colorwork—mixed with the “how'd she do that” types of construction she is famous for, are what set her designs apart and make them extra-fun to knit.

"In this book, Woolly also gives plenty of hat-knitting tips, as well as helpful hints on how to choose your most flattering hat style. Grab some gorgeous yarn, choose a favourite hat pattern, and cast on!

"It is hard to think about wooly hats (Woolly wooly hats?) as we head into spring and summer but as this book does not come out until August, I think that we are good... I loved all the patterns in this book and they will appeal to new knitters and old/experienced ones as well. The instructions are clear and concise and I will recommend this book to the knitters I know in home life and as patrons.

"As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I simply adore emojis (outside of their incessant use by "[bless]-ed Social Influencer Millennials/#BachelorNation survivors/Tik-Tok and YouTube Millionaires/snowflakes / literally-like-overusers etc. " on Instagram and Twitter... Get a real job, people!) so let's give it [5 sheep emojis]"

— Janet Pole Cousineau, Librarian at A.E.M.S. Library/ Community Kitchen

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 24 Mar 2021

"I am a knitter who, during this pandemic, has gotten so overwhelmed with everything in general that it has become a struggle to want to work on big projects. I love knitting, but I have become so stressed out that large projects have become just one more thing that needs to get done. This book is a great remedy for that. I started with cowls, but found that any small project that felt like I was accomplishing something was perfect. This collection of hats are not only manageable and easy to follow, but are gorgeous! I have added many of these to my list of projects to make and find myself looking back over these patterns trying to decide which of my stash yarns to use for each one. The pictures that accompany each pattern are beautiful! I cannot overstate how helpful it is to have a good picture to look at when I am trying to pick a pattern. It is inspiring to see all the color choices and then make them my own. I loved the section at the back of the book looking at specific techniques, as well as offering tips and tricks for fit, style, and comfort. Even as a seasoned knitter, I found this helpful and was able to add a few ideas to my hat-making. The only thing that I think could be changed was the separation of the adult patterns into "men's" and "women's." I think most of the hats work equally well for both and labeling them separately just imposes artificial limits. I think separating by children's vs. adult patterns is enough. Overall, I can't wait to work my way through all of these patterns and see which hat style fits me best!"

— Megan de Araujo, Freelance Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 23 Mar 2021

"True confession: I am a knitter. I love all things knitting and I love Knit Hats with Woolly Wormhead! Why? Many reasons. The pattern designs are original and striking. The patterns themselves are easy to read and well explained. If there is a more complicated instruction, there is a reference to a section later in the book that provides more detailed instructions. There are many tips and hints. Each pattern also lists the skills required for the hat, some more simple than others. These patterns do require some skill. They are not intended for a beginner knitter but if you can knit, purl and knit in the round and want to learn something new, I’d recommend Skelter, Staggered, Beanie or Kilbride. And finally, there is a list of Yarn Sources with their websites! I lost an entire afternoon browsing English yarn websites looking at lovely wool. But don’t worry. If you are in America, as I am, you’ll be able to figure out which yarns to substitute. Yarn weights and yardage are given for each project. But there’s always international shipping…5 stars.

"Thank you to NetGalley, Rowman and Littlefield and Woolly Wormhead for this ARC."

— Kathleen Hughes, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 23 Mar 2021

"This is a really interesting and attractive collection of hats by the designer Woolly Wormhead. The hats feature a variety of yarn weights and each pattern has size adjustments. Some of the hats have unusual construction techniques, such as knitting in panels sideways. Each pattern is labeled with the skills required. Some of the skills are described at the end of the book, like provisional cast-on, short rows and grafting. My favorite feature of the is book is that, while the book has charts, most of the pattens are also written out. I hate charts. The instructions and hints seem clear and I don’t think you would need a vast amount of experience to knit these hats.

"The book mostly has women’s hats but there are also sections of some very nice men’s and children’s hats. A couple of the patterns that I intend to try are Corella, covered with cables and made of sport weight baby alpaca and Skelter made from worsted, with a cable patten, and a deep garter stitch brim with a split at the back.

"At end of book there is a useful chapter describing how to find the right hat, how to wear it and how to get the right fit. Among other things, it explains how the stitch pattern and fiber content relate to the required negative ease. The photos in this book could have been bigger, but I think this is very good collection of patterns.

"I received a free copy of this book from the publisher."

— Faith Hudnell, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 22 Mar 2021

"I would give "Knit Hats with Woolly Wormhead" by Woolly Wormhead five stars! As a knitter I am always on the lookout for knitting books that I would buy and this one is on that list. Hats are a great knitting gift and this book has so many great patterns. Almost every one of them made me want to find yarn & needles and to start knitting right away. I found ones that I would knit for me, ones I would make for my husband and so many that I thought other family and friends would love."

— Stacy Olson, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Updated 22 Mar 2021

"This is not my first knit with Wooly Wormhead, and I knew she would not disappoint! Another great book!

Patterns are well written, easy to follow with great hints (check out Hats and Glasses). A pattern for each one of your family and friends. Photography is great, very appealing so you want to find your needles and get knitting.

Thank you to NetGalley and Rowman & Littlefield for a early peak this book for my honest opinion."

— Ilona Davis, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 22 Mar 2021

"This has some great new modern designs for hats and I would ware any of them in public. They are simple but have great patterns that are not for beginners. Easy to follow patterns."

— Amanda Karsh at Fanshawe College

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Updated 18 Mar 2021

"Wooly Wormhead has been designing charming, inventive knit patterns for hats for years as an independent designer. Wormhead has translated both the experience and whimsy of these past efforts into this beautiful, thoughtful, and instructive volume. Wormhead's patterns do not tend to blend into the background. True to form, the hat patterns presented in this book take on a variety of creative shapes and techniques. Some are more demure than others, but most are likely to attract some attention. Perhaps more importantly, they also look fun to knit. Wormhead walks knitters step-by-step through the techniques required. Patterns include both written directions and charts, and special techniques are given extra directions with helpful photos. Another aspect of this book I thoroughly appreciated is that it includes chapters with hats for men and children respectively. If you like Wormhead's charismatic style, this book may be the only one you need to make hats for everyone you know."

— Sara C, Reviewer at Independent voracious reader

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 03 Apr 2021

"I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.

"This includes a variety of hat patterns for men, women and children. I know from experience that Woolly Wormhead patterns are well written and innovative. The foreword reads very much as if a machine translated it from the German, but that would be my only quibble!"

—Karenza Chui, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 18 Mar 2021

"My first knitterly attempt came in 1995, I found out I was pregnant and I wanted to knit a baby blanket. As a child I crocheted, how hard could knitting be. After all it is just two stitches a knit and a purl and they are mirror images of each other. Over the years I have been amazed at what can be done with those two little stitches. Woolly Wormhead takes this to a whole new level. With an expertise in textiles, she has created some innovative hat patterns. I am very enamored of Infilare (pintuck) and Azula (garter stitch sideways knit flames).

"The patterns are well written and easy to understand. There is something here for all skill levels, from simple beanies to more elaborate patterns that will entertain and experienced knitter.

"This is definitely a book that will be going into my knitting library at home."

— Michelle Ogden, Librarian at Frankfort Comm. Contractual Public Library

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Updated 18 Mar 2021

"I noticed in the beginning of the book that the original version was published in German. That was helpful because hardly any of the yarns used in the hat samples were known to me. Most of the yarn looks like it is from the UK; fortunately the yarn weight is noted in the pattern. There are a variety of patterns I have not seen before, so that is good. The patterns are definitely for the somewhat experienced and/or confident knitter who has exposure to (or wants to try) some of these methods: provisional cast-ons, German short rows, Kitchener stitch, grafting and cables. Fortunately, some of these techniques are illustrated in the back section of the book. Some patterns only have charts. Since none of the directions for hat sizing and other basics are in the front of the book, the reader needs to note the table of contents to see what is there. There are 12 patterns for “her,” five for “him” and five for children. I like the “blown up section” of the finished hat, along with the regular size photos of people. I liked the “Skills Required” section for each pattern but one time it missed stating that the “Kitchener stitch” was required.

"My pet peeves about the book: the type for those of us older knitters appears too small, especially in the pattern sections that are not the “instructions” which appear a little larger. The chart numbers looks even smaller. There is plenty of white space around the text, so it seems that the font size could be increased a little. I didn’t know until the explanation later in the book whether they meant “German short rows” when they stated “short rows.” They did; maybe that is just my lack of knowledge of how this technique is referenced in patterns. I didn’t see a lot of variety in those modeling hats – no one older than 50 or a person of color. I am not a fan of mustard yellow which I saw variations of in a number of patterns.

"I would probably start out with a few of the men or child patterns – they look like I could easily warm up with knitting them and then graduate to one of the more complex women’s patterns after that. This is my first introduction to Woolly Wormhead and I will definitely check out her website and see what else she is designing."

— Esther Hayman, Reviewer at Allegoree Consulting

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Updated 16 Mar 2021

"Great book!

Each pattern is well explained and easy to follow instructions.

It has beautiful pictures of each project and really inspires you to get to work on one."

—Arlene Arredondo, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 3 stars

Updated 14 Mar 2021

"Some fun patterns for sure. All have good detailed instructions and the charts are all clear. I liked the hints and the short list of skills needed is great as one browses either for something they already know or to learn a new skill. Overall, there is some good variety. The one issue for me is while the men's hats are also shown for boys, the women's hats are not shown for girls. Also, most of the men's hats were really unisex. So perhaps a small section of the more clearly feminine hats, but the rest could be a single section of just hats, equally for all ages and genders."

— Rachel Stansel, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Last updated on 12 May 2021

"This was an amazing pattern book. If you're looking to upgrade your hat knitting skills, this is the book you need to have in your library. Her use of unique stitch combinations, colorwork, and intricate design techniques left me scratching my head (there's no way I can do that) and completely awestruck with the finished project.

"Thank you to Netgalley and Rowman & Littlefield for giving me the opportunity to review Knit Hats with Woolly Wormhead."

—Nichole Smith, Reviewer at NLS Creative

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Last updated on 04 Jun 2021

"Showcasing Woolly’s unique style, this book has a hat for every member of the family. I suggest knitters jump first to the end and read the section “The Basics”. Here, Woolly explores hat sizing and measuring for a good fit, why not every style is best for every head, the effect of ease, why one size doesn’t fit all, as well as some advice on hair and where on your head to wear a hat, especially if you wear glasses. I wish there were some photo examples in this section, but it’s still quite useful.

"The hat designs are grouped by who might wear them: women, men, and children. I think this distinction is arbitrary and it’s possible to look past that as the sizing covers a range of circumferences for every design. Each pattern includes all the basic information a knitter needs in a clear and well laid out format. If there are special stitches or techniques required page numbers are included so you don’t have to hunt for the technique within the book. With nearly every design there are hints for a successful knit. I’ve relied on Woolly’s tips for grafting in garter stitch for years and I appreciated the clear tutorial provided.

"This is a beautiful book that gathers twenty-two of Woolly’s inventive designs into one nice collection. Which designs caught my eye? I want to knit them all. The stunning photographs help."

--Penny Shima-Glanz, Reviewer at Penguin Girl

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 06 Jun 2021

"Woolly Wormhead's collection of 22 patterns for men, women and children is the prefect addition to any knitters library; the patterns are simple and easy for knitters of any skill. so If you're tired of knitting basic hats grab a copy to take your knitting to the next level.

"#KnitHatswithWoollyWormhead #NetGalley"

--Deirdre Williams, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 06 Jun 2021

"These hats have personality! Looking through them, you can imagine perfect matches for people you know and love.

"These are no plain, tuques or beanies. But rather than being intimidating, the author’s clear instructions and illustrations make this a “can do” book. Every element of every design is well explained.

"The designs are so clever that you’ll feel clever knitting them. A copy of this book, a couple of skeins of yarn, and your gift list will be covered for years to come."

--Melissa Ark, Educator

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 07 Jun 2021

"In much of the knitting world, the author of this book, Woolly Wormhead is a well-known, well-respected, and highly creative designer of knit hats. She and her designs are unique! This book makes me want to set up a display wall and feature these hats as individual works of art. Instructions are clear and easy to follow, and provide an opportunity to learn how to sculpt and manipulate stitches to create unique textures and pattern.. Woolly Wormhead brings a refreshing, thoughtful, and intentional perspective to knitting. I look forward to knitting my way through the book. #NetGalley"

—Linda Van Sistine-Yost, Librarian at Western Technical College and Taft College Adjunct Library

NetGalley Review: 4 stars

Last updated on 15 Jun 2021

"This book has a great variety of different hats for men, women and children. I would recommend this book to more advanced knitters. Some of the techniques required in this book are: provisional cast on, short rows, grafting, lacework and cables. There’s a section at the back to explain these techniques as well as both written and charted explanations for the hats. If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging than the simple knit hat, this is a great book to try."

—Michelle Geadah, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 16 Jun 2021

"This is such a FUN hat knitting book! Wooly Wormhead is known for her unusual construction and unique hats, and this book does not disappoint! The hats are beautiful, wearable, and have wide ranges of sizes available. Hats for men, women, and children are photographed from many angles so the reader can really appreciate the features of each hat. Instructions are clear and concise, and include helpful hints about construction and sizing. Perhaps my favorite part is at the end of the book, about how to choose and wear a hat well, even if you think you’re not a “hat person.” Finding the right hat for your face shape, hair length, and putting it on your head in a way that looks good is covered, and I already feel inclined to start wearing hats more often! Techniques are clearly explained and illustrated, sizing and gauge are covered, and the yarn colors and choices are inspiring. The only thing I could have asked for is more description of the inspiration behind each pattern, because I would love more insight into Wooly Wormhead’s design process. A great addition to a library collection, that will not in any way be duplicating what you already have on the shelf."

—Nissa Flanagan, Librarian at Baxter Memorial Library

NetGalley review: 5 stars

Last updated on 04 Jul 2021

"Wooly Wormhead makes some of my favorite patterns, so I was so excited for this book! These patterns have something for everyone, from new knitters to experienced ones, along with exciting patterns for everyone!"

—Kimberly Miller, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 07 Jul 2021

"I love to knit hats as they are relatively quick to knit. This book has a nice selection of hats for everyone. I was happy to see men’s and children’s sections. I liked that some of the hats had instructions for both child and adult sizes. There are several unusual children’s hats. I especially plan to try the Wychavon. The provisional cast on, which is illustrated in the book, is something I look forward to trying as well. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Rowman & Littlefield for my honest review."

—Amy Higgins, Consumer Reviewer

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 15 Jul 2021

"I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Knit Hats with Woolly Wormhead ~ Styles for the Whole Family written by Woolly Wormhead is an eclectic collection of beautiful hat patterns for both adults and children. The patterns are suitable for beginning to advanced knitters, and the more complicated patterns are so well explained that it's like getting an advanced class on technique as a bonus. The instructions and charts are clear and concise, the photographs are lovely, and this book is definitely one for my keeper shelf. Publishing Date: August 1, 2021. #KnitHatsWithWoollyWormhed #WoollyWormhead #RowmanAndLittlefield #StackpoleBooks #KnittingBooks #KnittingPatternBooks #KnitHats #HandKnitHats #NetGalley #bookstagram #bookstagrammer" —Norah Gibbons, reviewer at historicalromancemagazine.com

NetGalley Review: 5 stars

Last updated on 19 Jul 2021

"Knit Hats with Woolly Wormhead is a very informative and nicely presented book. Hats and patterns for everyone from adults to kids are found here. There are patterns with clear instructions for knitters of all skills. This is a great reference book for knitting hats." —Brenda Stoltz, educator

“There really is a hat out there for everyone,” writes Wormhead (Twisted Woolly Toppers), the 2018 British Craft Awards knitting designer of the year, in this unique collection. To accomplish Wormwood’s (sic) designs, knitters will need to know, among other techniques, how to make twisted stitches, live stitches, and short rows (a more advanced skill). The author includes many elaborate hat designs that require a fair amount of time and attention to complete, including the flame-patterned “Azula,” the floral “Klastar,” and the striped and spiked “Torsione.” Each pattern lists the skills required and the stitches/abbreviations used, while sidebars with hints specific to each project appear throughout. Must-read sections at the end include an explanation of ease (a term that describes a garment’s size in relation to a person’s body), a disavowal of the notion that hats are “one size fits all,” and a breakdown of how to make hats fit without being too tight. Indeed, readers will wish these instructional sections came before the projects rather than after. While newbies will be quickly overwhelmed, seasoned crafters will delight in these intricate patterns.