Description ~ Puntas from Peru

In Peru, the chullos (hats worn only by men and boys), are made with a great deal of care and skill. The men knit these hats for their sons, while the women knit for their families, or to sell. Often the hats start with the puntas, or scallops, in two or more colors. We will practice these design details and learn alternatives to them. We'll also explore making q'urpu, a string of tiny bobbles or popcorns that are then "popped through" the fabric of the chullo, applied after the hat is knitted or by incorporating the q'urpu as the fabric is knitted. Learning these techniques deepens our understanding of the clever ways knitting can be manipulated as well as instilling an appreciation for the culture that created them. In this way we can continue in, and be a part of, these traditions.

Materials Needed ~ Puntas from Peru

• Yarn: DK weight yarn in 6 colors (maybe an ounce of each color). I have used Rauma Strikkegarn in my samples. 115yds (105m) Per 50-g ball
• Needles: Size 4 (3.5 mm) DPN or short circular ndls (US 16"/40 cm).
• Crochet hook US #2 or #C (2.75 mm). You may find it easier to use a crochet hook at certain points, and if you have more than one size, you might want to bring a few sizes to choose from.
• Notions: Tapestry Needle, scissors

Homework ~ Puntas from Peru

Make a swatch of 25 sts. Work 3 rows of garter, and enough rows of St st to measure 2" (5 cm) from the cast-on. Leave it on your needle, as we will knit on this swatch.