What You'll Need
Yarn: Worsted weight (medium, category 4), approximately 100 g / 180 m. Acrylic for washability, merino for softness.
Needles: 5 mm circular needles, 40 cm cable length (for hat body) + 5 mm double-pointed needles or short circulars (for crown decreases).
Notions: Stitch marker, scissors, tapestry needle.
Sizes
| Size | Head circumference (cm) | Stitch count | Total length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child (2–6 years) | 48–52 | 72 | 18–20 |
| Adult S/M | 54–56 | 80 | 22–24 |
| Adult L/XL | 58–62 | 88 | 24–26 |
Stitch count is for yarn with gauge of 18 stitches / 10 cm in stockinette stitch on 5 mm needles. Always knit a swatch and adjust accordingly.
Pattern (Adult S/M)
Brim (Ribbing)
Cast on 80 stitches to 5 mm circular needles using long-tail cast on. Join in the round (being careful not to twist). Place stitch marker at beginning of round.
Work 2×2 ribbing (*knit 2, purl 2*) for 12 rounds (approximately 5 cm).
Body (Stockinette Stitch)
Switch to stockinette stitch — knit all stitches in the round. Continue until total length from brim is 17–18 cm (measured from cast on). The remaining 5–7 cm will be decreases.
Crown Decreases
Divide stitches into 8 sections of 10 stitches each. Place stitch markers.
Decrease round: *Knit to 2 stitches before marker, knit 2 together* — repeat 8 times. You'll decrease 8 stitches per round.
Even round: Knit all stitches.
Alternate decrease rounds and even rounds. When approximately 40 stitches remain, decrease every round. When 8–10 stitches remain, cut yarn leaving a 20 cm tail, thread through tapestry needle, pull through remaining stitches, draw tight and weave in end.
Variations
Slouchy hat — add 3–5 cm to body length. The hat will be looser and fall backward.
With rolled brim — knit brim 10 cm in stockinette stitch (it will curl) instead of ribbing. Creates a decorative roll.
With pompom — add a pompom made from yarn or faux fur to the crown.
