Shiraz
Materials and Methods: Crocheted Fulled (Felted) Wool
Designer & Artist: Marie-Christine Bevington
Year: 2006
This hat is assembled from completed polygons and then fulled in the washing machine to achieve the desired finished size. Each piece was increased by 12 stitches per row. Thus, 2 stitches were added at each vertex of the hexagon, 2 alternating with 3 stitches were added at each vertex of the pentagon, 3 stitches were added at each corner of the square, and 4 stitches were added at each vertex of the triangle. Pieces are worked so that the final row of each polygon has the same number of stitches, allowing the pieces to be sewn together precisely. White contrast yarn used for the last row of each polygon highlights its perimeter.
This hat is defined by the central hexagon on the crown, the size of which corresponds to the head size. From each of the six sides of the hexagon cascades pentagons, squares and triangles. The profile of the hat results from the use of regular polygons with subsequently fewer sides. A narrow band is added at the edge for comfort. The result evokes an opulent oriental dome, suggesting the name "Shiraz."