Moonstream

Moonstream Hat by Joan Forgione

What is Being Made

Moonstream is a knitted hat designed by Joan Forgione for teens and adults. The finished hat features a circumference of 18 inches [45cm] and is sized to fit head circumferences between 18–21 inches [45–53.5cm]. The design showcases a distinctive cable pattern that roams around the hat in a sleepy, celestial-inspired motif, drawing inspiration from astronomy and the night sky.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs cable techniques as its primary design feature. The pattern uses cables with a 1½ inch repeat, creating a dynamic textured surface that wraps around the hat. The design combines cable work with garter rib stitch sections, requiring knitters to manage multiple stitch patterns and cable crosses throughout the project.

Stitches Used

• Garter Rib: A foundational stitch pattern used in sections of the hat, providing structure and elasticity
• Cable Pattern: The signature stitch featuring cables with 1½ inch repeats that create the sleepy, roaming celestial design

Materials and Specifications

Moonstream is worked in DK weight yarn, a medium-light yarn weight ideal for creating defined stitch definition in cable work. The pattern requires two needle sizes to achieve proper gauge: smaller needles for the Garter Rib sections and larger needles for the cable pattern sections. Gauge is critical for this design—the Garter Rib should measure 24 stitches and 34 rounds over 4 inches [10cm] when unstretched and blocked with smaller needles, while the cable pattern should measure 28 stitches and 34 rounds over 4 inches [10cm] when blocked with larger needles. Knitters are advised to adjust needle sizes as necessary to achieve the specified gauge for proper fit.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with experience in cable techniques and working with multiple stitch patterns. The combination of cables, gauge changes between sections, and shaping required for a fitted hat makes this project appropriate for knitters ready to advance beyond basic techniques.