Kyla

Kyla Slouchy Beanie by Katya Frankel

What is Being Made

Kyla is a slouchy beanie hat designed by Katya Frankel. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a relaxed-fitting hat that is knit in the round from the bottom up. The finished brim circumference measures 17 ½ (19, 20 ¼) inches / 44.5 (48.3, 51.4) cm unstretched, with three size options available to fit head circumferences of 20 (22, 24) inches / 51 (56, 61) cm. The slouchy construction and cable detailing make this hat a versatile accessory suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques that build on basic skills. The hat is constructed using knitting in the round, a method that creates seamless, tubular fabric by working in continuous circular rows. Cable stitches are featured throughout the design, adding texture and visual interest to the hat. The pattern incorporates increases and decreases, with crown decreases specifically integrated into the pattern to shape the top of the hat. Finishing techniques are included to complete the project professionally.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used in Kyla is Stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric that forms the base of the hat. Cable stitches are worked throughout the design, providing textural contrast and dimension. The cable pattern is incorporated as far as possible into the crown decreases, maintaining visual continuity even as stitches are reduced to close the top of the hat. The gauge for Stocking stitch is 22 stitches and 28 rounds over 4 inches / 10 cm, while the cable stitch pattern gauges at 12 stitches over 2 inches / 5 cm.

Yarn and Materials

Kyla is designed to use approximately 195 (210, 230) yards / 175 (190, 205) meters of DK weight yarn. The pattern is written for UK Alpaca DK, which consists of 70% fine Alpaca and 30% Bluefaced Leicester, available in the colorway #Fawn at 132 meters per 50-gram ball. Knitters may substitute other lightweight DK weight yarns of similar fiber content and yardage to achieve the correct gauge.

Needles and Notions

The following needles and tools are required to complete this project:

• Size 4mm (US6) circular needle for the main body of the hat
• Size 3.5mm (US4) double pointed needles for working the crown decreases
• Stitch marker to mark the beginning of rounds
• Cable needle for working cable stitches
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing

Knitters should adjust needle size as necessary to achieve the correct gauge before beginning the project.

Difficulty Level

Kyla is rated as an intermediate knitting project. This difficulty level assumes the knitter has mastered basic knitting skills and is comfortable with knitting in the round, working with cable stitches, and performing simple increases and decreases. The pattern provides a good opportunity to develop cable-working skills while creating a practical, wearable accessory.