Hinged

Hinged Slouchy Beanie by Katya Frankel

What is Being Made

The Hinged hat is a casual and fun slouchy beanie designed by independent designer Katya Frankel. This knitted hat features a gently gathered crown and is worked seamlessly in the round from the brim upward. Available in four sizes to fit head circumferences of 18, 20, 22, and 24 inches (45.5, 51, 56, and 61 cm), the Hinged hat offers a relaxed, contemporary silhouette perfect for everyday wear.

Techniques and Construction

The Hinged hat is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level knitters. The pattern requires proficiency in knitting in the round, which creates a seamless, tubular fabric without seams. The construction begins with a cast-on of 72 to 96 stitches depending on size, with a marker placed to denote the beginning of the round.

The brim features a distinctive twisted rib pattern that establishes the visual foundation for the design. Twisted stitches are incorporated throughout the pattern, creating textured lozenges that stand out against the reverse stocking stitch background. These twisted stitches are worked using the k1 tbl (knit one through the back loop) technique, which adds depth and visual interest to the ribbed sections.

Additional techniques employed include simple increases and decreases to shape the hat, as well as finishing to complete the garment. The pattern uses m1p (make one purlwise) increases to expand the stitch count from the brim into the body of the hat, allowing for the slouchy silhouette.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl stitch (p) – used to create reverse stocking stitch and ribbed sections
• Knit through the back loop (k1 tbl) – twisted knit stitches that create the hinged lozenge motifs
• Make one purlwise (m1p) – increase stitch used for shaping
• Reverse stocking stitch – the primary fabric base that provides contrast to the twisted rib details

Materials and Yarn

The Hinged hat is designed to be knitted in Malabrigo Worsted, a soft singles yarn that beautifully showcases the twisted stitches throughout the design. The pattern accommodates both aran and worsted weight yarns, providing flexibility for yarn substitution while maintaining the intended drape and fit of the finished hat. The soft, smooth texture of the recommended yarn makes the twisted stitches visually pop against the reverse stocking stitch background, enhancing the dimensional quality of the hinged lozenge pattern.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Hinged hat is appropriate for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working in the round and executing basic increases and decreases. The pattern assumes familiarity with standard knitting abbreviations and techniques, making it an ideal project for those looking to expand their skill set with textured stitch patterns and seamless construction.