I really enjoyed my first Floret Pop Pullover pattern test for Yarn by Beck and was eager to do more. When I saw Eli looking for testers for her Basic Beret pattern I thought it would be the perfect relaxing pattern test to apply to as it wasn’t as big a project as the last one.

I really loved the look of Eli’s Basic Beret and was excited to be chosen as a tester. I was keen to test making a light summery version of her pattern and thus decided to reuse the same multicoloured DK recycled cotton yarn from my previous project as I still had plenty left.

This was my first project working in the round and I definitely felt like I was getting lost sometimes with the stitch counting, but I manged to fumble my through. I also think I may be low key obsessed with this yarn! I just love the dye pattern and how nicely the warm colours blend together. Saying that I also really want to check out some other colours from this yarn in future!

Being a beginner to reading crochet patterns there were certain elements that initially confused me, but I soon figured out. With it being such a small project it also doesn’t feel quite as precious; meaning if I didn’t get it right the first time, I could always try again and make a second or third hat quite quickly. Although I made a few mistakes first time round, I would still say Eli’s pattern is definitely beginner friendly.

Eli’s pattern is also easily customisable and it’s fab to see just how differently all testers approached it. I used a 5mm hook with a dk recycled cotton yarn and although I like the tension I was working with, my end product turned out just a tad too small/tight. So next time round I think I might try a 6mm hook or add an extra row or two, or both aha. I defiantly want to try making a cosier winter version with a thicker yarn.

So here’s the finished Basic Beret by Eli. I’m really pleased with how my first attempt turned out despite the odd mistake and miscounting. If you want a beginner friendly beret pattern, please make sure to check out her pattern here!