Woven Braid Ski Hat DK Version

Woven Braid Ski Hat DK Version by Cheryl Beckerich

Project Overview

The Woven Braid Ski Hat DK Version is an intermediate-level knitted hat designed by Cheryl Beckerich. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a finished hat measuring 22 inches (56 cm) in circumference and 8 inches (20.5 cm) in height, making it a warm and versatile accessory suitable for cold-weather wear. The hat is specifically engineered to work beautifully with both variegated and self-striping yarns, adding visual interest to the finished piece.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a ski hat—a close-fitting, warm winter hat designed to cover the head and ears. The distinctive construction method sets this hat apart from typical knitted hats, as it begins with a woven braid band that is later grafted together before the crown is worked in the round. This unique approach creates a structured, professional-looking hat with excellent drape and comfort.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for 1 skein of Potion Yarns Temptress DK, which is composed of 100% Superwash Merino fiber. The yarn provides 231 yards (211 meters) with a weight of 3.5 ounces (100 grams). The recommended colorway is "Anarchy in a Top Hat," though any DK or light worsted-weight yarn totaling approximately 220 yards will work for this project. DK-weight yarn is a popular choice for hats as it creates a fabric with good stitch definition while remaining lightweight enough for comfortable wear.

Needles and Tools

• Size 7 US (4.5 mm) 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle or size needed to obtain gauge
• Size 7 US (4.5 mm) double-pointed needles or size needed to obtain gauge
• Spare Size 7 US (4.5 mm) needle for grafting
• Cable needle for working cable stitches
• Stitch markers to track pattern repeats
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Waste yarn for provisional cast-on

Knitting Techniques

This hat employs several intermediate-level knitting techniques that create its distinctive appearance and structure. The pattern begins with a provisional cast-on using waste yarn, which allows stitches to be picked up later for grafting. The hat is initially worked flat as a band rather than in the round, which is an unconventional approach that creates the woven braid element. After the flat band is completed, the provisional cast-on stitches are removed and the two ends of the band are grafted together using Kitchener stitch or a similar grafting technique, creating a seamless join. Once the band is grafted, stitches are picked up around the top edge of the band to begin working the crown in the round.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Woven Braid Ski Hat features a repeating cable pattern as its primary stitch element. The pattern is set up with a 50-stitch provisional cast-on, which establishes the foundation for the flat band. Cable stitches are worked throughout the band section, creating the textured, dimensional appearance that gives this hat its name. The cable pattern repeats across the width of the band and continues as stitches are picked up for the crown. Cables are created by crossing groups of stitches over one another using a cable needle, which shifts the direction of the yarn and creates the characteristic twisted, rope-like texture. This stitch pattern provides both visual interest and additional warmth through the extra layers of yarn created by the cable crossings.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 37.5 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in the flat band section. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions of 22 inches in circumference. Knitters should swatch before beginning and adjust needle size as needed to match the specified gauge, as even small variations can affect the final fit of the hat.

Construction Method

The Woven