November leaves

November Leaves Knit Hats by Melissa LaBarre

What is Being Made

November Leaves is a downloadable knitting pattern featuring two distinct hat designs created by designer Melissa LaBarre. The pattern includes instructions for both a fitted beanie version and a slouchy beret shape, both sized to fit most adult women. A decorative leaf motif adorns the side of each hat, adding visual interest and seasonal appeal to these versatile cold-weather accessories.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern uses BrooklynTweed Shelter, a worsted weight yarn with 140 yards per 50-gram skein. The fitted beanie requires 1 skein in "hayloft," while the beret version requires 2 skeins in "sweatshirt." Both colorways are included in the pattern instructions, allowing knitters to choose their preferred hat style while working with the same high-quality yarn base.

Needles and Notions

The pattern calls for the following needle sizes and notions:

• 1 US6 (4mm) 16-inch circular needle
• 1 US7 (4.5mm) 16-inch circular needle
• 1 set of US7 double-pointed needles (or size needed to obtain correct gauge)
• 3 stitch markers (2 of one color and 1 of another color)
• Blunt needle for weaving in ends

The use of both circular and double-pointed needles allows for seamless construction and smooth transitions throughout the knitting process.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

November Leaves is rated as an intermediate difficulty pattern, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond the basics. The pattern employs stockinette stitch as the primary stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for showcasing the decorative leaf motif. The leaf design is incorporated as a side panel detail, adding textural and visual interest without overwhelming the overall construction.

The pattern demonstrates fundamental knitting techniques including working in the round using circular needles and double-pointed needles, managing stitch markers for pattern placement, and seamless hat construction methods. These techniques ensure a professional finish with minimal seaming required.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches on the larger needles in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly important when creating fitted beanies and structured beret shapes. Both hat versions are designed to fit most adult women, with clear instructions provided for each style variation.

Pattern Format

November Leaves is available as a downloadable PDF pattern for personal use. The pattern is authored by Melissa LaBarre and published through knittingschooldropout.com, offering knitters immediate digital access to complete instructions for both hat variations in a single, convenient document.