Rose Bud Balaclava
There’s something quietly comforting about a balaclava. It’s both practical and a little bit whimsical (and sometimes funny); it feels like wrapping yourself in softness from the very first hint of winter. Seeing the balaclavas take the stage of winter accessories in past maybe 5 years, I have really tried and tried to make my own perfect version. It took me at least four separate attempts on this particular style until I feel like I nailed it! But finally I made a balaclava that I really love to wear.
Rose Bud Balaclava is my take on this timeless winter piece: simple and sculptural, with just the right amount of texture from the stitch patterns.
My Rose Bud is worked in half brioche (also known as fisherman’s rib), because it has that lovely squish and shadow that comes only from this kind of stitch. And I do love to use half brioche “inside-out”. Traditionally or usually the side that looks like a brioche knitting pattern with knit stitch columns that stretch across two rows and a slipped stitch behind them, and purl columns in between is called the right side. However I’m using the side with more bumpy knit columns with one stitch per row, alternating between large and small stitches, as my right side. It creates a very airy and plumped fabric and gives this rib structure plenty of elasticity. Perfect for a balaclava you want to be warm, fluffy and stretchy. And I just adore the look of it! The edges of the hat are neatly finished in rib, and the shape comes together with a few well-placed short rows and subtle shaping, creating a fit that frames the face beautifully and feels effortless to wear.
I knitted mine holding two yarns together: Säie Wool Merino DK and Isager Silk Mohair. The result is a soft, slightly fluffy fabric that traps warmth and feels like a gentle hug. The result is plush yet light, and the colour combination, dusty pink on pale pink, gives a delicate depth that changes in the light. It feels like a rose just opening. I will never get enough of these types of pinks - and I think my guilty pleasure colourway will always and forever be Säie Wool Oh So Pretty. There is no better pink in my humble opinion!
Rose Bud Balaclava is now available here and on Ravelry too! Use code ROSEBUD20 for an introductory discount through Monday, December 15th, 2025 (Helsinki time).
Whether you wear it under a coat on a frosty walk or pull it up for extra coziness on a windy day, Rose Bud Balaclava is one of those small projects that feels joyful both to knit and to wear. It’s a lovely way to play with texture, yarn, and that quiet rhythm of brioche stitches.
