Hemp Beanie

Hemp Beanie by Elizabeth Smith

What is Being Made

The Hemp Beanie is a classic knitted hat designed for adult wear, available in two finished sizes: 18"/46 cm circumference (Adult M) and 20"/51 cm circumference (Adult L). This beginner-friendly project creates a warm, folded-brim beanie suitable for everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques ideal for beginners. The construction begins with a long tail cast-on method to create a secure foundation edge. The hat is worked in the round using circular needles, which eliminates the need for seaming and creates seamless fabric. The pattern includes a folded brim technique, where ribbed stitches are worked and then folded in half for a professional finish, though knitters can choose to work a shorter ribbing section if they prefer not to fold. The main body transitions from ribbed texture to smooth stockinette stitch.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes two primary stitches:

• Ribbing (k2, p2): A two-by-two knit-purl repeat worked for the brim section, creating vertical columns of texture that provide stretch and recovery
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): Smooth knit stitches worked in the round for the main hat body, creating a classic, clean appearance

The pattern also accommodates optional color striping, allowing knitters to incorporate contrasting colors from multiple yarn skeins for visual interest.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Hemp Beanie requires approximately 215 yards of DK-weight or light worsted-weight yarn. The pattern is worked using allhemp6 by Hemp for Knitting, which is 100% hemp fiber. One skein provides 100 grams and yields 165 yards, so the project requires 1 skein each of 3 colors (totaling the necessary yardage). Hemp yarn offers durability, breathability, and a distinctive natural texture.

Needles required include a US 5/3.75 mm circular needle measuring 16"/40 cm for the ribbed brim section and a US 6/4 mm circular needle also measuring 16"/40 cm for the main hat body. Double-pointed needles (DPNs) in US 6/4 mm are also needed for the crown decreases when the circumference becomes too small for circular needles.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 5 stitches equals 1 inch (2.5 cm) in stockinette stitch worked in the round. The brim is worked for approximately 4 inches (10 cm) before being folded, and the main hat body extends for an additional 4 inches (10 cm). This straightforward construction makes the Hemp Beanie an excellent beginner project requiring only basic knitting knowledge and circular needle skills.