Daisy Cloche

Daisy Cloche by Triona Murphy

What is Being Made

The Daisy Cloche is a knitted hat designed to fit an average woman's head with a finished circumference of approximately 20 inches (53 cm). This classic cloche style hat is worked in the round using a combination of circular and double-pointed needles, creating a structured, close-fitting garment suitable for everyday wear.

Craft and Technique

This is an advanced-level knitting project that demonstrates skilled construction techniques. The pattern employs a double-strand knitting method, where two strands of Aran-weight yarn are held together simultaneously to achieve a super-bulky yarn weight and faster fabric development. Alternatively, crafters may substitute a single strand of pre-spun super-bulky yarn. The hat is constructed using circular knitting, which eliminates seams and creates seamless, professional results. The pattern requires transitioning from circular needles to double-pointed needles during the crown shaping, a technique essential for closing the top of the hat smoothly.

Stitches and Construction Details

While the complete stitch pattern is not fully detailed in the provided content, the pattern uses fundamental knitting stitches worked over a foundation of 60 cast-on stitches. The gauge is established at 12 stitches and 16 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in the primary stitch pattern. Proper gauge checking is emphasized as critical, particularly when substituting yarn weights, since using different yarn types directly affects the final hat dimensions and fit.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The pattern calls for Cascade Ecological Wool, a 100% wool yarn in color 8049. One 250-gram skein provides 478 yards (437 meters) of yardage. The recommended yarn weight is heavy worsted or Aran weight. When two strands are held together, this yarn achieves a super-chunky or super-bulky effect. The pattern uses approximately 160 yards of Aran-weight yarn total, meaning approximately 80 yards of super-bulky yarn would be needed if substituting. Cascade Ecological Wool is noted as an excellent choice for this project due to its natural fiber content and workability at this weight.

Needles and Notions

• Circular needle: US #11 (8.0 mm) in 16 or 20 inches long
• Double-pointed needles: US #11 (8.0 mm) set of four or five
• Notions: Stitch marker and yarn needle for weaving in ends

Yarn Weight and Gauge Considerations

The super-chunky yarn weight used in this pattern creates quick stitch definition and rapid project completion compared to finer yarn weights. The gauge of 12 stitches and 16 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) is relatively loose, characteristic of super-bulky knitting, which allows the stitch definition and texture to showcase beautifully. Knitters are strongly advised to knit a gauge swatch before beginning, especially when substituting yarns, as even small gauge variations will significantly impact the final hat circumference and overall fit.

Skill Level

Rated as advanced, this pattern assumes knitters are comfortable with circular knitting in the round, managing multiple needles simultaneously, and interpreting pattern instructions with minimal guidance. The transition from circular needles to double-pointed needles for crown decreases requires confidence and dexterity. Knitters should have solid foundational skills in cast-on methods, basic stitches, and seamless garment construction before attempting this project.