Beeswax Hat

Beeswax Hat by Amy van de Laar

What Is Being Made

The Beeswax Hat is an advanced knitting design that celebrates the geometric beauty of honeycomb structures created by bees. This downloadable PDF pattern offers two sizes to fit head circumferences of 17-20 inches (43-51 cm) for size 1 and 21-24 inches (53.5-61 cm) for size 2. The finished hat measures 14.5 inches (37 cm) or 18 inches (46 cm) in brim circumference and extends 7.75 inches (19.5 cm) or 9 inches (23 cm) from brim to crown, depending on the size chosen.

Knitting Techniques

This pattern employs several intermediate to advanced knitting techniques that create the distinctive honeycomb-inspired design. Knitters will work in the round, a fundamental technique for hat construction that ensures seamless cylindrical shaping. The pattern incorporates strategic increasing and decreasing to shape the crown and achieve proper fit. The signature design feature involves simple 1-over-1 cables, which are cable stitches that can be executed without a cable needle—a technique that simplifies the cabling process while maintaining visual interest.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Beeswax Hat features simple 1-over-1 cables as the primary stitch pattern element. These cables create the honeycomb-like texture that gives the hat its name and visual appeal. The pattern includes instructions for a favorite twist method to work cables without a cable needle, making this advanced design more accessible. Both charted instructions and full written instructions are provided, allowing knitters to choose their preferred method of following the pattern.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Beeswax Hat is designed for DK or light worsted-weight yarn. The sample shown in the pattern was knitted using one skein of Vintage Purls Max (75% merino, 25% nylon; 227 yards/208 meters per 100-gram skein). Yardage requirements are 119 yards (109 meters) for size 1 and 181 yards (165.5 meters) for size 2. The merino and nylon blend provides warmth, breathability, and durability suitable for a hat that celebrates natural inspiration.

Gauge and Finishing

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. The pattern provides specific gauge information to ensure the hat fits as intended. Finished measurements are given after blocking, which helps even out the cable stitches and sets the final dimensions at 14.5 inches (37 cm) or 18 inches (46 cm) in brim circumference.