If you’re craving a fresh project for spring that feels special the moment you put it on, this beret is such a lovely choice. Fan Vaulting Beret by Denise Powell is inspired by the beautiful fan-vaulted ceilings found in many cathedrals, with Bath Abbey as the spark for berets based on fanned-out ribs and arches.
skill level Intermediate
time A satisfying weekend knit, plus a little extra if you want to slow down and enjoy the stitch texture
ideal for Fresh spring style, knitters who love wearable texture, and anyone who wants a hat that looks intricate but stays practical
you will practice Cable knits, cablework, picking up stitches, sharp increases, twisted rib, hidden decreases for crown shaping, finishing with a classic beret tab
finished size 10½” [27cm] diameter

Fan Vaulting Beret knitting pattern by Denise Powell for ANPTmag Issue Spring 2013; photo by Carla A. Canonico
This project was featured in the ANPTmag Spring 2013 issue, which features inspired by spring-themed projects, with a cheerful mix of ideas across the needle arts that celebrate the season and invite you to learn, play, and create. In that spirit, the Fan Vaulting Beret by Denise Powell brings a fresh, wearable statement piece to your spring wardrobe while you practice beautiful, textured techniques.
From the pattern listing, here is what you can expect: the hat starts with a lengthwise band knit as i cord. Stitches are picked up along the band and increased sharply to begin the twisted rib pattern. The decreases are hidden in the pattern to shape the crown, and it finishes with that traditional tab that makes a beret feel complete.
Get the Fan Vaulting Beret pattern here
https://www.aneedlepullingthread.com/product/fan-vaulting-beret/
Get the ANPTmag Spring 2013 print issue here
https://www.aneedlepullingthread.com/product/spring-2013/
If you knit this beret, would you choose a soft spring neutral to let the texture shine, or a bold color to make the stitch pattern pop from across the room?
Years ago, I knitted the Fan Vaulting Beret for my mom, who loved the colour blue. I’m now knitting one for myself in red. I’ll post it on KNITmuch when I’m done. Stay tuned!

The Fan Vaulting Beret I knit for my mom years ago; photo by Carla A. Canonico

Fan Vaulting Beret knitting pattern by Denise Powell for ANPTmag Issue Spring 2013; photo by Carla A. Canonico
What makes this project so exciting is that it blends cable texture, smart shaping, and a ‘story’ you can actually wear.
Join me next week to find out which inspiring ANPTmag knitting project I’ll share with you!