Oculus

Oculus Knit Hat by K.M. Bedigan

What Is Being Made

The Oculus is a knitted hat inspired by the artistic glass skylight designed by Narcissus Quagliata in the dome of the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome. This downloadable PDF pattern allows knitters to create a colorful hat based on the wonderful hues cast by the skylight in the historic building. The design comes in four sizes to fit head circumferences of approximately 16, 18, 20, and 22 inches (40, 45, 50, and 55 centimeters).

Techniques and Construction

The Oculus hat is constructed using circular knitting techniques with double-pointed needles or circular needles, making it suitable for knitters of all experience levels. The pattern is classified as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent project for those new to hat knitting. The hat's structure is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing knitters to experiment with color combinations beyond the original inspiration. This versatility makes the pattern particularly appealing for crafters looking to use up small quantities or leftover scraps of fingering weight yarns.

Stitches Used

While specific stitch names are not detailed in the pattern overview, the construction relies on fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for circular knitting. The pattern maintains a gauge of 32 stitches to 4 inches (10 centimeters) and 40 rows, which is standard for fingering weight yarn projects and ensures proper fit across all four size options.

Materials and Yarn

• Yarn Weight: 4-ply fingering weight yarn. Version A uses yarns from Jamieson & Smith's 2-Ply Jumper Weight and Shetland Heritage ranges, which provide the inspired color palette directly reflecting the original skylight's hues.
• Needles: 2.5 mm / US 1.5 double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needle for the main knitting, and 2.75 mm / US 2 DPNs or circular needle for ribbing or finishing details
• Additional Notions: One stitch marker and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Color Customization

The Oculus pattern encourages creative color work. While the original version draws its palette from the Basilica's skylight, knitters can easily adapt the design by selecting one main shade and combining it with as many additional colors as desired. This flexibility makes the pattern ideal for stash-busting projects and allows each maker to create a personalized version reflecting their own color preferences.