Flying Ace Aviator Hat for Kids

Flying Ace Aviator Hat for Kids by Cheryl Andrews

What is Being Made

The Flying Ace Aviator Hat for Kids is a warm, structured aviator-style hat designed for children in three sizes: small (ages 1–2), medium (ages 3–5), and large (ages 6–8). The finished measurements range from 17 inches to 20 inches in circumference. This knitted hat features double-layer ear flaps with ties and a lined head band for enhanced warmth and comfort, making it ideal for cold-weather wear. The design accommodates both solid-color and striped colorway options, with the additional option to embellish with a pompom for extra visual appeal.

Knitting Techniques Used

This project is knitted seamlessly in the round, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a smooth, finished garment. The hat is constructed using circular needles for the main body and double-pointed needles for smaller sections, allowing for continuous, tubular knitting. The double-layer ear flaps are integrated into the design, and the lined head band is worked to provide structural support and insulation. Knitters can choose to work the hat in a single solid color or incorporate up to two contrast colors to create striped versions throughout the design.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 19.5 stitches and 27 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided content, the intermediate difficulty level indicates the use of foundational knitting stitches combined with shaping techniques necessary for hat construction, such as increases and decreases to form the crown and ear flaps. The stitch holder or spare needles are used to manage live stitches during the construction process.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The pattern calls for worsted weight yarn in the main color, requiring approximately 2.5 ounces and 150 yards for a solid-color hat. Recommended yarn options include Malabrigo worsted or Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride worsted. For striped versions, smaller amounts of two contrast colors are needed. Optional acrylic yarn may be used for the head band lining. The sample hats featured in the pattern were knitted in Malabrigo worsted weight, a pure merino wool yarn available in 3.5-ounce skeins with approximately 215 yards per skein, in colorways including Verde Adriana, Pollen, and Indigo.

Needles: The pattern requires US size 6 circular needles in a 16-inch length for working the main body of the hat in the round, and a set of five US size 6 double-pointed needles for working smaller circumferences. Stitch holders or spare size 6 or smaller needles are needed to hold stitches during construction.

Difficulty Level and Suitability

Rated as an intermediate project, the Flying Ace Aviator Hat is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working in the round with both circular and double-pointed needles. The seamless construction and structured shaping provide a satisfying learning experience for those advancing beyond beginner patterns.