What Wind? Hat

What Wind? Hat by Betty Lewis

What Is Being Made

The What Wind? Hat is an adult-sized crochet hat designed by Betty Lewis of Butterfly Dreams Crochet and Crafts. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a finished hat in three size options: Teen/Adult Small (21" circumference), Adult Medium (22" circumference), and Adult Large (23" circumference). The hat is suitable for head sizes approximately one inch smaller or larger than the specified measurements, offering flexibility for different wearers.

Crochet Techniques Used

This intermediate-level crochet pattern employs a variety of fundamental and textured techniques to create visual interest and structure. The pattern uses both basic and post-stitch variations to build dimension into the finished hat. Circular crochet construction is used throughout, working in continuous rounds from the crown downward. The combination of different stitch heights and post stitches creates a dynamic, textured fabric suitable for a wearable garment.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

• Single crochet (sc) ­ the foundational short stitch used for shaping and structure
• Half double crochet (hdc) ­ a medium-height stitch providing balanced fabric density
• Double crochet (dc) ­ a taller stitch used for creating lighter sections
• Linked double crochet (Ldc) ­ a variation that creates a tighter, more defined fabric
• Front post half double crochet (FPhdc) ­ a post stitch worked around the front of previous stitches for textural relief
• Back post half double crochet (BPhdc) ­ a post stitch worked around the back of previous stitches for dimensional effects
• Puff stitch (PS) ­ a special textured stitch created by repeating yarn over and loop pulls three times before drawing through all loops, adding bulk and visual texture
• Chain (ch) ­ the foundation stitch for creating foundation chains and turning chains
• Slip stitch (sl st) ­ used to join rounds and create seamless transitions
• Increases (inc) ­ used to expand the hat circumference during crown shaping
• Decreases (dec) ­ used to shape and fit the hat to the head

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for #4 Worsted Weight yarn in an approximate yardage of 150 to 225 yards, depending on the size selected. The pictured samples were created using Bernat Stripes, a variegated worsted weight option that adds color variation to the finished hat.

Crochet Hook: An I (5.50 mm) crochet hook is recommended, though the pattern notes that the appropriate hook size may vary to obtain proper gauge. Crocheters should select a hook size that allows them to achieve the specified gauge of 3 inches over Round 3 of the pattern.

Additional Tools: A darning needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends, and scissors are required for cutting yarn.

Skill Level and Gauge

This pattern is rated as Intermediate level, indicating it is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to work with post stitches and special textured stitches like the puff stitch. The specified gauge is Round 3 of the pattern = 3 inches, which is essential for achieving the correct finished hat size.