Merry-go-round

Merry-go-round Knit Hat by Kathleen Sperling

What is Being Made

The Merry-go-round is a knitted hat pattern designed by Kathleen Sperling, available in three sizes: baby (approximately 14" circumference), toddler (approximately 16" circumference), and child (approximately 18" circumference). This downloadable PDF pattern offers knitters the opportunity to create a colorwork hat with coordinating color schemes for each size—blue for baby, green and purple for toddler, and red and pink for child.

Techniques and Stitches

This advanced-level knitting pattern employs colorwork techniques using charted stitch patterns. The design features multiple chart repeats (Chart D, E, or F depending on size) that are worked in the round to create the hat's body. Knitters will need to be comfortable reading knitting charts and managing multiple colors within a single row, a technique commonly known as stranded colorwork or Fair Isle knitting. The pattern uses sock weight yarn, which requires working on smaller needles and produces a finely detailed fabric ideal for intricate colorwork designs.

Materials Required

This pattern calls for sock weight yarn in two colors. The yardage requirements vary by size:

• Colour A: Approximately 28 yards for baby and toddler sizes, 34 yards for child size. The model shown uses Schoeller+Stahl Baby Micro (51% superwash wool, 49% microfiber, 106 yards per 25 grams)
• Colour B: Approximately 36 yards for baby size, 34 yards for toddler size, and 47 yards for child size. The model shown uses Schachenmayr nomotta Regia Design Line Kaffe Fassett

Knitters will also need appropriately sized needles for working with sock weight yarn in the round, typically smaller diameter needles suitable for small circumference knitting.

Gauge and Finished Measurements

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. One repeat of the charted pattern, when blocked, should measure 3 1/2" wide by 4 1/4" high for baby size, 3 1/4" wide by 4 1/4" high for toddler size, and 3 5/8" wide by 4 3/16" high for child size. The finished hats have circumferences of approximately 14", 16", and 18" respectively.