Paravel Hat

Paravel Hat by Megan Goodacre

What is Being Made

The Paravel Hat is a versatile knitted hat designed by Megan Goodacre that offers two distinct silhouettes in a single pattern. Crafters can choose between a trim beanie version that sits like an acorn's cap, or a slouchy version with deeper ribbing and a more relaxed fit. Both versions are worked in the round using fingering weight yarn, making this an elegant and wearable accessory suitable for various occasions and personal style preferences.

Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques that make it engaging for knitters with foundational skills. The hat is constructed by working in the round, which creates seamless fabric ideal for hats. The crown shaping is accomplished through graceful quadrants that meet in a tidy quatrefoil—a four-lobed design element that adds visual interest to the crown. Shaping is achieved using decreases, specifically the k2tog (knit 2 together) decrease and the sl1-k2tog-psso (slip 1 stitch knitwise, knit 2 together, pass slipped stitch over) technique, which creates elegant decreases that blend seamlessly into the lace pattern.

Stitch Patterns

The Paravel Hat features two complementary stitch patterns that work together to create visual depth and texture. Panels of easy broken rib provide structure and elasticity, ensuring the hat fits snugly and maintains its shape. These ribbed sections are separated by columns of Totem Pole lace, a traditional stitch pattern that adds an intricate, openwork element to the design. The combination of solid ribbed panels and delicate lace columns creates a balanced aesthetic that is neither too dense nor too sheer.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern accommodates two different yarn options, allowing crafters to choose based on availability and preference. The beanie version uses SweetGeorgia Yarns CashLuxe Fine, a luxurious blend of 70% merino, 20% cashmere, and 10% nylon, with yardage of 115 g/400 yds per skein. This version requires approximately 50g/180 yds. The slouch version calls for Quince & Co Finch, a 100% wool yarn with 50 g/221 yds per skein, requiring approximately 60g/260 yds. Both yarns are fingering weight, ideal for creating the delicate lace and refined fabric of this hat. Knitters will need appropriate needles for fingering weight yarn, along with a marker and place markers for tracking pattern repeats and crown shaping.

Finished Measurements

The pattern includes finished measurements for both the beanie and slouch versions, though specific dimensions are referenced in the full pattern document. These measurements help crafters determine which version suits their head size and style preference.

Skill Requirements

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Paravel Hat is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to expand their skills. The pattern assumes familiarity with working in the round, basic shaping through decreases, and fundamental lace abbreviations. The combination of broken rib and traditional Totem Pole lace provides an excellent opportunity to practice lace knitting in a manageable, visually rewarding project.