Spotted Around Set

Spotted Around Set by Stana D. Sortor

Project Overview

The Spotted Around Set is a coordinated knitting project featuring a leopard print scarf and matching hat, both designed by independent designer Stana D. Sortor. This intermediate-level knitting pattern uses a two-color technique to create a distinctive spotted animal print effect across both garments. The set is worked in DK weight yarn, making it an accessible project for knitters with some experience.

Scarf Specifications

The scarf is designed to measure 6 inches (15.5 cm) wide by 62.5 inches (159 cm) long, creating a generous length suitable for wrapping and styling. The scarf is constructed using US size 7 (4.5 mm) needles, worked in the round using a set of 5 double-pointed needles or preferred needles for circular knitting. The pattern requires 3 skeins of Cascade 220 Superwash in the main color Sandalwood (#876) and 1 skein in the contrasting color Bitter Chocolate (#872).

Hat Specifications

The hat is offered in three finished sizes to accommodate different head circumferences. The small size measures approximately 16 inches (41 cm) around the brim with a length of 8.5 inches (21.5 cm). The medium size measures 18 inches (46 cm) in circumference with a length of 9.5 inches (24 cm). The large size measures 20 inches (51 cm) in circumference with a length of 10.5 inches (26.5 cm). The hat requires 1 skein each of Sandalwood (#876) and Bitter Chocolate (#872).

Knitting Techniques and Construction

Both garments are constructed using the leopard print pattern technique, which involves working with two colors to create the spotted design. The pattern utilizes stranded colorwork or intarsia methods to integrate the contrasting colors throughout the fabric. The hat is worked in the round using double-pointed needles or circular needles, beginning with a smaller needle size (US 6, 4 mm) for the ribbed cuff before transitioning to the larger needle size (US 7, 4.5 mm) for the main body. This needle transition creates a fitted edge that helps the hat stay securely in place.

Yarn and Materials

Yarn Weight: DK weight yarn is used throughout the project, providing a medium thickness that works up relatively quickly while maintaining good stitch definition for the leopard print pattern.

Suggested Yarn: The pattern recommends Cascade 220 Superwash, which is 100% superwash wool. This yarn offers 220 yards (200 meters) per 100-gram skein, making it durable and easy to care for. The superwash treatment allows the finished garments to be machine washed, adding practical appeal to this coordinated set.

Color Palette: The set features a sophisticated two-color combination using Sandalwood as the main color and Bitter Chocolate as the contrasting color, creating warm, earthy tones that work well together.

Gauge and Needles

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 23 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when measured in the leopard print pattern after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for the garments to fit correctly. The project requires US size 7 (4.5 mm) needles in both double-pointed needle sets and circular needle formats, with an additional set of US size 6 (4 mm) needles for the hat ribbing. Knitters should select their preferred needle style—either double-pointed needles or circular needles—based on personal preference and comfort.

Notions and Finishing

Beyond yarn and needles, the pattern requires a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and securing color changes, and at least one stitch marker to track pattern repeats and size increases. These basic notions are essential for completing the set with a professional finish.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to tackle two-color colorwork techniques. The leopard print pattern introduces the challenge of managing multiple colors while maintaining consistent tension and stitch quality.