Stacked Hearts Cable Hat

Stacked Hearts Cable Hat by Casey Kay B

What is Being Made

The Stacked Hearts Cable Hat is a knitted beanie designed for intermediate knitters. This top-down hat features a distinctive construction with alternating lace and cable sections, finished with two inches of 3 x 2 ribbing at the brim. An optional pom-pom crowns the top of the hat, adding a playful finishing touch. The hat is sized to fit a 22-inch head and measures 13 inches around the brim when laid flat, though the fabric stretches significantly wider for comfortable wear. The finished depth is 11 inches.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level pattern employs several essential knitting techniques to create its textured appearance. The hat utilizes cable stitches as a primary design element, which are created by crossing groups of stitches over each other to form twisted, rope-like textures. The pattern also incorporates lace sections that alternate with the cable sections, adding visual interest and airiness to the design.

Additional stitch techniques include yarn overs, which create the openwork characteristic of lace patterns, as well as knitting front and back (KFB) and purling front and back (PFB) for increases. The hat is worked in the round using a top-down construction method, beginning at the crown and working downward toward the brim. The ribbed cuff at the bottom provides elasticity and helps the hat stay securely in place.

Materials and Tools

The pattern calls for 1 skein of Malabrigo Rios yarn in a worsted weight, which provides a soft, durable fabric suitable for everyday wear. The designer notes that the same Malabrigo Rios yarn can be used for the optional pom-pom topper.

Essential tools include:

• Size 8 (5mm) circular needles for the main body of the hat
• Cable needle for manipulating stitches when creating cable patterns
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Scissors for cutting yarn

Optional materials for finishing include Size 8 (5mm) double point needles (useful if preferred for the crown decreases), a pom-pom maker for creating a uniform topper, and cotton thread in a matching color if attaching the pom-pom securely to the hat.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 6 stitches by 7 rows per 1 inch in stockinette stitch when worked with the recommended yarn and needle size. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for the hat to fit properly and display the stacked hearts cable pattern as designed.

Yarn Substitution Options

The designer provides flexibility for yarn substitution, noting that the pattern has also been successfully worked in Knit Picks Brava Worsted, making it a viable alternative for crafters who may prefer different yarn brands or have availability constraints. Any worsted weight yarn with similar yardage and fiber characteristics should produce comparable results.