Graphite hat

Graphite Hat by Evvash

What is Being Made

The Graphite Hat is a stranded colorwork knit hat designed by Evvash (Evgeniya Vashutkina). This downloadable PDF pattern creates a fitted, classic winter hat featuring decorative colorwork throughout. The hat is available in three sizes: Small (head circumference 20-20.5 inches / 51-53 cm), Medium (21-22.5 inches / 54-57 cm), and Large (23-23.5 inches / 58-60 cm), with corresponding heights of 7 inches, 8 inches, and 8.5 inches respectively.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs stranded colorwork as its primary decorative technique. Stranded colorwork, also known as Fair Isle knitting, involves carrying multiple colors of yarn across the inside of the fabric while working with two colors per round, creating intricate patterned designs on the hat's surface. The pattern is worked in the round using circular needles or double-pointed needles, which allows for seamless construction and maintains the integrity of the colorwork pattern throughout.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl stitch (p) – used as needed in pattern construction
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) – a decrease stitch used for shaping the crown
• Stockinette stitch – the primary fabric texture, worked in rounds to create a smooth, V-textured surface

Materials and Tools

The Graphite Hat is knitted using US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles (16 inches / 40 cm) or US 4 (3.5 mm) double-pointed needles, depending on knitter preference. The recommended yarn is Yarn Drops Nepal, a blend of 65% wool and 35% alpaca, which provides warmth, elasticity, and a soft hand. Each 50-gram skein contains 82 yards (75 meters) of yarn. The pattern gauge is 21 stitches and 28 rows over a 4 x 4 inch (10 x 10 cm) square worked in stockinette stitch after blocking, which ensures proper fit and drape of the finished hat.