Head in the Clouds

Head in the Clouds Knit Hat by Kate Heppell

What is Being Made

Head in the Clouds is a downloadable knitting pattern for a slouchy hat designed by Kate Heppell. This intermediate-level project creates a relaxed, comfortable hat available in three sizes with finished circumferences of 49cm, 52cm, and 55cm, and heights of 21.5cm, 23.5cm, and 25.5cm respectively. The slouch fit provides a contemporary, casual aesthetic suitable for everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level. The hat is worked primarily in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The construction incorporates decreasing techniques using knit two together (k2tog) reductions to shape the crown and achieve the finished dimensions. The pattern is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, requiring seaming to complete the garment. Colorwork is introduced through the use of a contrast colour worked into the design, adding visual interest to the finished piece.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (St st) – the primary stitch throughout the hat, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side
• Knit (K) – the fundamental stitch used in forward rows
• Purl (P) – used on return rows to create stockinette texture
• Knit two together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease used strategically for shaping the crown

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Jamieson & Smith Shetland Aran yarn in two colors: SS2 (blue) as the main colour and SS16 (cream) as the contrast colour. One 50g ball of each color is required. This yarn is 100% Real Shetland Wool with 90 meters per 50g ball, providing excellent warmth and durability. The aran weight classification ensures a quick-knitting project with good stitch definition.

Additional materials include 6mm straight needles for working the flat fabric, a darning needle for weaving in ends and seaming the hat together, and yarn bobbins to manage the contrast colour during colorwork sections.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a tension of 14 stitches by 20 rows over 10cm measured in stockinette stitch. Achieving correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements. Three size options accommodate different head circumferences, with the smallest size beginning at 49cm circumference and the largest at 55cm, allowing customization for various wearers.