Camellia Leaf Hat

Camellia Leaf Hat by Yoko Johnston

What is Being Made

The Camellia Leaf Hat is a classic knitted hat featuring elegant leaf motifs with distinctive long, flowing stems that stretch toward the crown. This downloadable knitting pattern by independent designer Yoko Johnston offers a refined design suitable for multiple sizes, from baby through adult large.

Available Sizes and Finished Dimensions

This pattern includes five size options to accommodate different head sizes:

• Baby: Brim circumference 32 cm (12.5"), height 19 cm (7.5")
• Toddler: Brim circumference 36.5 cm (14.25"), height 19 cm (7.5")
• Child: Brim circumference 41 cm (16"), height 19 cm (7.5")
• Adult M: Brim circumference 45.5 cm (18"), height 22 cm (8.5")
• Adult L: Brim circumference 50 cm (19.5"), height 22 cm (8.5")

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for DK weight yarn, requiring approximately 145 to 170 meters (158 to 186 yards) depending on size. The sample shown was knitted using Malabrigo Yarn Silky Merino in a beige colorway, with two skeins of 50g/137m (150 yd) yarn used for the Adult M size. Knitters will also need waste yarn, stitch markers, a tapestry needle for finishing, and optional 4.5mm (US 7) double-pointed needles for an I-cord loop detail.

Needles Required

Two needle sizes are used in this pattern to create proper fabric density at the brim and body:

• Body: 4.5 mm (US 7) circular needles or double-pointed needles (DPN)
• Brim: 3.5 mm (US 4) circular needles or DPN

Needle size should be adjusted as necessary to achieve the correct gauge.

Gauge and Stitches

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this hat to fit correctly:

• Stockinette Stitch (body): 20 stitches and 24 rows over 10 cm (4") on the larger 4.5mm needles, blocked
• 1x1 Ribbing (brim): 22 stitches over 10 cm (4") on the smaller 3.5mm needles, blocked

Knitting Techniques

The Camellia Leaf Hat employs intermediate-level knitting techniques. The pattern utilizes 1x1 ribbing for the brim, which provides elasticity and a classic finished edge. The body is worked in Stockinette stitch, a fundamental knit fabric that creates a smooth, refined surface ideal for showcasing the decorative leaf motifs. The design features leaf stitches with extended stems that flow upward toward the crown, creating visual interest and movement. Knitters will work in the round using either circular needles or double-pointed needles, a standard technique for hat construction that eliminates the need for seaming. The optional I-cord loop adds a decorative finishing touch and demonstrates advanced detail work.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. While the foundational stitches are straightforward, the leaf motif work and the coordination of multiple needle sizes require attention to detail and familiarity with reading knitting charts or instructions.