Evanston Slouchy Hat

Evanston Slouchy Hat by knittervee

What is Being Made

The Evanston Slouchy Hat is a relaxed, comfortable knit hat designed to fit head circumferences ranging from 16 to 24 inches (40.5 to 61 centimeters). The finished brim circumference measures 16 inches (40.5 centimeters), and the slouchy construction creates a loose, draped silhouette that sits casually on the head. This intermediate-level knitting project is ideal for crafters looking to expand their skills beyond basic hat construction.

Craft and Techniques

This project is created using the knitting craft and employs circular knitting techniques. The hat is worked in the round, which is a fundamental method for creating seamless, tubular garments. Knitters have the flexibility to choose between two methods: working on 16-inch (40-centimeter) or longer circular needles, or using the Magic Loop method with longer circular needles. Alternatively, double-pointed needles may be substituted if preferred. The pattern includes instructions for adjusting needle size to achieve the correct gauge, ensuring proper fit and fabric drape.

Stitches Used

The Evanston Slouchy Hat utilizes several fundamental knitting stitches and techniques:

• Stockinette stitch worked in the round, which creates a smooth, flat fabric with a V-pattern texture on the right side
• Knit stitch (k) and purl stitch (p) as the basic building blocks
• Slip stitch as if to purl with yarn in back (sl 1 wyib), used for creating finished edges and decreases
• Slip, slip, knit decrease (ssk), a left-leaning decrease technique that reduces stitch count while maintaining even shaping
• Cast on (CO) to establish the initial stitches at the brim

Materials and Specifications

The recommended yarn for this project is Malabrigo Rios, a 100% superwash merino wool yarn in the worsted weight (#4 Medium) category. Each skein contains 210 yards (192 meters) per 100 grams. The pattern requires less than one full skein, with the pictured hat using approximately 49 grams of yarn in the colorway Indiecitas. Superwash merino provides excellent softness, elasticity, and easy care properties, making it an ideal choice for a hat worn close to the face.

Needles required include US 7 (4.5 millimeter) circular needles measuring 16 inches (40 centimeters) or longer, depending on the preferred knitting method. US 7 double-pointed needles are optional for those who prefer this technique for the crown decreases. Additional supplies include a stitch marker for tracking the beginning of each round and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rounds per 4 inches (10 centimeters) when working stockinette stitch in the round. Knitters should adjust their needle size up or down as needed to match this gauge, as variations in tension will affect the finished hat's circumference and drape. The slouchy construction accommodates a wide range of head sizes from 16 to 24 inches (40.5 to 61 centimeters).

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have completed basic projects and are comfortable with circular knitting, gauge adjustment, and fundamental decrease techniques. The slouchy hat provides an excellent opportunity to practice in-the-round construction and shaping while creating a wearable, fashionable accessory.