Stack Attack

Stack Attack Knit Hat by Arina Shofiya

What is Being Made

Stack Attack is a beginner-friendly knit hat designed by Arina Shofiya. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a fitted hat available in three sizes: Small (fitting up to 16 inches / 40 cm head circumference), Medium (fitting up to 18.5 inches / 47 cm), and Large (fitting up to 21 inches / 54 cm). The hat is constructed using a two-needle technique approach, making it accessible for knitters new to hat construction.

Techniques Used

The Stack Attack pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The construction utilizes a brim section worked on smaller needles followed by the main body on larger needles, a common approach that creates a snug, elastic edge. The pattern incorporates basic decreasing methods and yarn-over techniques to shape the crown. Knitters can choose to work the hat using either circular needles or double-pointed needles (dpns), offering flexibility based on personal preference and available tools.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The pattern includes the following abbreviations and techniques:

• k (knit): The fundamental knit stitch forming the base fabric
• yo (yarn over): Creates decorative openings and increases within the pattern
• k2tog (knit two stitches together): A right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• ssk (slip slip knit): A left-leaning decrease created by slipping two stitches individually as if to knit, transferring them back to the left needle, and knitting them together through the back loop

Materials and Specifications

The Stack Attack pattern requires approximately 120.3 yards (110 meters) of fingering weight yarn, totaling about 0.97 ounces (27.5 grams). The sample shown uses NEW MILCO yarn, a blend containing 45% cotton, 40% milk fiber, and 15% acrylic, offering breathability and comfort. This yarn weight is classified as 4-ply, providing a delicate yet durable fabric suitable for a lightweight hat.

Two needle sizes are required to achieve proper gauge and construction: US 2 / 2.75mm needles for the brim section and US 5 / 3.75mm needles for the body. The gauge is 23 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the larger needle. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Pattern Customization

The Stack Attack pattern offers flexibility for customization. The width of the hat can be easily adjusted by adding or subtracting cast-on stitches in multiples of 8 stitches, allowing knitters to create sizes between the three provided options or adapt the pattern to specific head measurements.

Difficulty Level: Beginner