Handcrafted with 50 percent llama fiber (which is 8 times warmer than sheep’s wool), these hats are not only luxurious, they are also extremely hard-wearing.
Each of my hats begins its life as a very large (roughly 12″ x 19″) handknit stocking cap, which takes 7 hours to knit.
Good thing I am an avid handknitter and enjoy knitting in every spare moment!
Below, my teammate, Jon Paynter, caught me knitting hats between hockey games at the Pucker-Up Tourney in Healy Alaska, February, 2003 (thanks Jon!).
Since moving to New Hampshire in 2004, I’ve discovered warm-weather knitting! I especially like to knit while enjoying live folk or oldtime music, which lends sweet rhythm to my own clickety-clacking joy!
Barb Heller (of North Country Public Radio & Folk Alley) was tickled to spy me knitting in time at the 2006 Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, and so snapped this photo (thanks, Barb!).
Once I finish knitting a dozen of these stocking caps, I toss them all into a hot, soapy washing machine and let the machine rough them up…
The microscopic scales coating the llama & sheep’s wool fibers get irrevocably tangled during this rough washing and after nearly 30 minutes of agitation, the huge stocking cap transforms from a supple, hand knit fabric into a durable, thick and impervious felt.
After gently rinsing and spinning the hats, I shape each one by hand (and sometimes foot), stretching out the crown and getting the felt smooth.
Then each hat air-dries for several days, before getting the finishing touch of a hand-sewn satin ribbon lining, which not only keeps the hat from itching, but also helps keep its shape over time.
Each hat takes a minimum of 9 hours to complete, and will provide years of warm, stylish comfort, on the trail or in town.
Prices range from US$135 – $235.
Proud member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen since 2004.
What else? There’s more about me if you’re curious… plus, a little bit about this site.
Still have questions? Feel free to contact me. I’d be happy to hear from you!
Great caps!
Very cool!!! It would appear you are much the same today as… well a long time ago. I’m going to have to get hats for x-mas and birthday presents.
Thanks, fellas! I appreciate the feedback.
Hello-
I really like your hats. So you make children’s or babies hats? Thanks
Hi Carrie,
so nice to chat with you this morning. Thank you so much for taking the time to orient me a little with the craft scene in this area. I’ll definitely remember to pronounce my town as West LebanUn…! I saw the photo of your mum. Definitely fit the spunky woman that you wrote she was. Again, my condolences for your loss. Will look you up in the Open doors studio tour this year! Take care of yourself, Anne (from Montreal and Newfoundland!!!)
Hi, I love your hats! Do you do classes? I would definitely do one if you offered them!
Katie
Thanks Katie! So nice to hear from you…
Although I’ve led a class each fall and winter for the past couple years, I’m taking a break from teaching classes this year.
However, I do still sell hat kits, which you could complete in the comfort of your own home. The cost is US$45 (includes shipping), or $65 for two hats worth of yarn, plus pattern and felting instructions.
Thanks again for the positive feedback, Katie, and let me know if I can hook you up with a kit sometime…
Pingback: Visiting Artist at Sandwich Home Industries Cancelled « Carrie Cahill Mulligan
Hi,
I would be interested in purchasing a kit from you. Do I have a color selections and how do I go about purchasing a kit?
Thanks
Hi Carrie,
I met you today at the Dartmouth gym. I’m the one who lost her card.
Love your hats! Let me know how I can get one.
Hi Jane,
Thanks so much for checking out my hats & the website. I’m delighted that you’re interested in my work!
The best way to get a hat is to try them on. Currently, I have hats at the League of NH Craftsmen Gallery in North Conway, and also at my home studio in Canaan. Weekends are best.
Feel free to call or email (603-523-7506 or ccmhats AT gmail DOT com) to be sure I’ll be there (otherwise, I might very well be at the hockey rink!).
Pingback: Back to The Balsams: Winter 2011 Edition « Carrie Cahill Mulligan
Pingback: Thank You for Supporting My Hockey Habit | Carrie Cahill Mulligan