We think it’s safe to say that pom pom hats are having a moment. Their popularity makes sense — the hats look so darn cheerful in a gray, wintery landscape. And while we’ve spotted these hats in national retail stores, the best we’ve found are made right here in Maine. Wayne resident Brookes Smith custom knits soft, cozy hats from her home studio and tops each with a faux fur pom pom. Her Instagram feed features a variety of tempting colors and knits, which makes it a challenge to choose a favorite!
Smith started knitting in college 10 years ago as a way to relax and connect with others. Then in 2018, she decided to try selling her knit hats on Instagram and Etsy. The response to her work has been overwhelmingly positive. When asked what it’s like to see her hats out in the world, she says “it’s been great watching people both near and far enjoy my work.”
We love that Smith shops local knitting spots to find the acrylic, alpaca and wool yarns she uses for her hats. She sources from Nezinscot Farm in Turner, Knit Wit in Portland and Yardgoods in Waterville.
You can select the knit, color and pom pom you like, and contact Brookes via her Etsy shop or Instagram.