Lotus

Lotus Hat by Melissa Leapman

What Is Being Made

Lotus is a downloadable knitting pattern for a hat designed by Melissa Leapman. This intermediate-level project creates a finished hat available in two sizes: Small/Medium with a circumference of 20 ½ inches and height of 7 inches after the fold-up ribbing, or Large/1X with a circumference of 24 inches and height of 8 ½ inches. The pattern is suitable for knitters with some experience and produces a classic, wearable hat design.

Techniques and Construction Methods

Lotus is constructed using circular knitting techniques, which allows for seamless, in-the-round construction. The hat begins with a ribbed cuff that folds up, creating a classic finished edge. The pattern incorporates increases worked strategically throughout the crown shaping to create the hat's distinctive silhouette. Reverse Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric structure, creating a smooth, refined appearance on the finished garment.

Stitches Used

• K2P2 Rib Pattern: A knit-purl combination used for the ribbed cuff section that provides stretch and elasticity
• Reverse Stockinette: The main stitch pattern worked in the larger needle size, creating a textured, purl-side-facing fabric
• Make One (M1) Increases: Strategic increases worked on alternating rounds to shape the crown and create the hat's form
• Knit and Purl Stitches: Combined in structured patterns to create visual interest and stitch definition

Materials and Tools Required

This pattern requires DK weight yarn in an approximate yardage of 140 yards for the Small/Medium size or 200 yards for the Large/1X size. The sample hat shown in the pattern was knitted using Malabrigo's Rastita yarn in colorway #120 Lotus, which showcases the stitch definition beautifully.

Knitting needles needed include circular needles in sizes US 5 and US 6 (3.75mm and 4mm) in a 16-inch length, or the size required to obtain proper gauge. Double point needles in size US 6 (4mm) are also required for working the crown decreases when stitches become too few for circular needles. An optional pom pom can be added to the crown for additional embellishment.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 32 rounds over 4 inches in Reverse Stockinette stitch using the larger needle size. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished hat meets the intended measurements and fits properly.