Squoonchy Hat

Squoonchy Hat by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

The Squoonchy Hat is a cozy, stretchy knitted hat designed by Corrine Walcher. This intermediate-level project features a relaxed fit that stretches from 20 inches unstretched to 26 inches when worn, making it adaptable to various head sizes. The hat is part of a coordinated collection that includes matching Squoonchy cowl and mitts, allowing crafters to create a complete set with cohesive styling.

Techniques Used

This hat is constructed using circular knitting techniques, worked in the round to create a seamless garment. The pattern begins with casting on stitches and joining them in the round, then progresses through multiple pattern repeats before transitioning to crown decreases that shape the top of the hat. The seeded rib pattern is maintained throughout the body of the hat, creating texture and elasticity. Decreases are strategically placed during the crown shaping phase to gradually reduce stitches and form the hat's crown.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K): The fundamental stitch that creates the base texture of the fabric
• Purl (P): Used in combination with knit stitches to create the seeded rib pattern
• Seeded Rib Pattern: An all-over textured stitch pattern created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence, repeated across 12 rows and worked three times for a total of 36 rows
• K2tog (Knit Two Together): A right-leaning decrease used during crown shaping
• P2tog (Purl Two Together): A decrease worked in purl stitches, also used in the crown shaping

Materials

The Squoonchy Hat requires approximately 85 yards of yarn in a chunky weight. The recommended yarn is Supercraftygirl Nirvana Bulky, which is 100% Superwash merino wool, providing softness, breathability, and easy care for this cozy hat. Knitting needles required include a set of 5 double-pointed needles and one 16-inch circular needle, both in size 9 US (5.5mm), or a size that allows you to achieve the specified gauge of 3.25 stitches and 5 rounds per inch in the seeded rib pattern. The gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions and stretch characteristics.