Catnip hat

Catnip Hat by Katya Frankel

What is Being Made

The Catnip Hat is a drapey knitted hat designed by Katya Frankel in three sizes to fit head circumferences of 46cm (18in), 53.5cm (21in), and 60cm (23½in). The finished brim circumferences measure 40.5cm (16in), 47.5cm (18¾in), and 57cm (21¼in) respectively. This intermediate-level knitting project features a smooth transition from the brim into decorative crown patterning, creating a garment with elegant drape and visual interest.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Catnip Hat employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance. The pattern transitions smoothly from the brim into the crown, where lace and cable patterns are introduced. The designer notes that lace patterns are used as reference only, with each pattern repeat working independently to open up the fabric in a beautiful way. Cable stitches are integrated into the design to enhance the visual texture while maintaining the hat's characteristic drape. The construction uses both circular needles for the main body and double-pointed needles for the crown shaping, a standard approach for seamless hat knitting.

Stitches Used

The foundation of the Catnip Hat is worked in stockinette stitch using the larger needles. Pattern repeats measure 10 stitches wide by 12 rounds tall, with each repeat spanning 5cm (2in) wide by 6.5cm (2½in) tall. Cable stitches feature prominently in the crown patterning, creating texture and visual depth as the hat transitions from the brim. The combination of stockinette stitch with cable and lace elements creates the drapey quality characteristic of this design.

Yarn and Materials

The Catnip Hat requires one skein of DK weight yarn totaling 225 meters (246 yards) and 100 grams (3.5 ounces). The pattern offers two yarn options from Ancient Arts Fibre Crafts: a blend of 58% Superwash Merino with 42% Cultivated Silk, or the Mantua blend featuring 75% superwash merino with 25% Tussah silk. Both options provide the same yardage and weight specifications. The sample shown was knitted in Russian Silver Blue. Needles required include 4mm (US6) short circular needles, 4mm (US6) double-pointed needles, and 3.5mm (US5) short circular needles. Additional notions include a stitch marker and tapestry needle for finishing.

Gauge

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 24 stitches and 28 rounds over 10 centimeters (4 inches) in stockinette stitch using the larger 4mm needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and ensuring the hat fits as designed.