Warm hats are one of the most needed items for homeless individuals in Pennsylvania. Ninja Llama Ministries recognizes this need and is working to deliver hats to Kensington’s homeless. In addition to collecting hats that are donated to the cause, we are busy knitting hats. If you like to knit or crochet, either free-hand or with a round loom, join our Mad Hatters Club! We meet at various locations around Lancaster County. Meeting with others who are working to help the homeless is a fulfilling social experience.
Meetings for November:
Tuesday, November 12 1:00-3:00 at Hippo Bubble Tea, 2050 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster
Tuesday, November 26 1:00-3:00 at Panera Bread, 839 E. Main St., Ephrata
We would love to have you join us. Whether you are an experienced knitter or have never knitted before, you are welcome to be part of the Mad Hatters Club. If you are totally new to knitting and want to learn how to make a hat, bring your supplies, and we will show you how. It’s very simple. Here are the supplies that you need if you are new to knitting on a loom:
loom hook and yarn needle (included in the loom set)
Choosing Yarn for Hats
The best yarn for knitting hats on a loom is regular, acrylic craft yarn or chunky yarn. Avoid the extra-thick, chenille yarn due to its lack of stretch and give. Some people have made some great hats with that yarn. However, I would start with regular or chunky yarn if you are new to using a round loom. Bernet Softee Chunky is a great option for yarn for hats. A hat does not use a full skein.
How Long Does It Take?
I can make a hat from start to finish in 6 hours on the large, wide-spaced peg loom like the one in the kit above. I also use a loom with pegs that are closer together. Hats take longer on a loom with more pegs. I’m trying one out to see the difference in the tightness of the knit. I have noticed that the wider spaces are much easier to work with. The yarn slips and unravels easier than with the wide looms. So, I would really recommend the wide-spaced loom for beginners.
Flexibility
If you want to work on a different project, feel free to still join us. I may not always want to make a hat. I would like to try to make a scarf at one point. I will be giving the scarf to a homeless person in Kensington, if I am successful at making a nice one. You may want to make a blanket for someone in Kensington which would be very appreciated. The Mad Hatters Club is a great way to connect with others who care about the homeless.
We hope to see you at our next meeting!