Malou hat

Malou Hat by Zsuzsanna Orthodoxou

What is Being Made

The Malou Hat is a knitted beanie designed by Zsuzsanna Orthodoxou, featuring a classic chevron rib pattern that creates a visually striking texture. This one-size hat measures 17.75 inches (45 centimeters) in circumference, fitting head sizes of 20 to 22 inches (51 to 56 centimeters), with an approximate length of 10.25 inches (26 centimeters) from brim to crown. The design is worked in the round from the bottom up, creating a seamless, professional finish.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Malou Hat employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginner-level crafters. The pattern utilizes circular needles and double-pointed needles (dpns) to work in the round, which is the standard method for creating seamless hats. The construction begins with a cast-on at the brim and progresses upward through the body to the crown. Decreases are incorporated using knit 2 together (k2tog) and slip, slip, knit (ssk) techniques to shape the hat as it tapers toward the top. The pattern is worked in a solid yarn to fully showcase the chevron rib stitch definition.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern featured in the Malou Hat is the chevron rib, which combines knit and purl stitches to create a distinctive zigzag or V-shaped texture. This stitch pattern is worked on the main body of the hat using US6/4mm needles. The chevron rib stitch is achieved through alternating increases and decreases that form the characteristic peaks and valleys of the pattern. The brim is worked on smaller US4/3.5mm needles, creating a tighter gauge for a secure edge. Standard knitting abbreviations used include k for knit, p for purl, k2tog for knit two stitches together, and ssk for slip, slip, knit.

Materials and Gauge

The Malou Hat pattern calls for 2 skeins of mYak yarn in Ochre, a baby yak fiber in worsted weight. Each skein contains 50 grams and yields 117 meters (125 yards) of yarn. The worsted weight classification makes this yarn ideal for creating a warm, durable hat with good stitch definition. The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 32 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) when worked in the chevron rib stitch on US6/4mm needles. Needles required include a US4/3.5mm circular needle or dpns measuring 80 centimeters (32 inches) for the brim, and a US6/4mm circular needle or dpns of the same length for the body. Additional notions include a stitch marker, row counter, scissors, tape measure, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends after blocking.

Difficulty Level

The Malou Hat is classified as a beginner-friendly knitting project. The straightforward construction, simple stitch pattern, and one-size-fits-all design make it an excellent choice for knitters developing their skills in circular knitting and basic shaping techniques.