The Ade beanie

The Ade Beanie by Ola Ogunlolu

What is Being Made

The Ade beanie is a classic knitted winter hat designed by Ola Ogunlolu. This adult-sized beanie features a comfortable, stretchy fit with a finished circumference of 20 inches that stretches to 25 inches, making it suitable for average-sized adult heads. The beanie measures 8 inches in length (excluding the pom-pom topper), creating a traditional beanie silhouette perfect for cold-weather wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This beginner-friendly beanie employs fundamental knitting techniques accessible to those new to the craft. The pattern uses circular knitting worked in the round, which eliminates the need for seaming and creates seamless, professional-looking results. The design incorporates the magic loop technique, allowing knitters to work with a long circular needle to manage stitches comfortably. The pattern also includes decreasing techniques using knit-two-together (K2tog) stitches to shape the crown of the hat as stitches are gradually reduced toward the top.

Stitches Used

The Ade beanie utilizes basic knitting stitches that form the foundation of most knitted garments:

• Knit stitch (K) – the fundamental stitch that creates the characteristic V-pattern texture
• Purl stitch (P) – the reverse of the knit stitch, used to create visual interest and texture variation
• Ribbing pattern (K1, P1) – alternating knit and purl stitches that create an elastic, fitted cuff around the base of the beanie
• Knit two together (K2tog) – a decrease stitch used to reduce stitch count and shape the crown

The pattern combines stockinette stitch sections (created by alternating knit and purl rows) with ribbed sections, creating both texture and stretch in the finished garment.

Materials and Tools

This project requires minimal materials, making it an economical choice for knitters. The yarn specification calls for 1 ball of super chunky or super bulky weight yarn, totaling 87 yards (80 meters). The pattern specifically mentions Wool and the Gang's Funfetti yarn as the designer's choice, though any similar super chunky weight yarn will work. The bulky yarn weight ensures quick project completion, ideal for beginners seeking fast results.

Needles required include 10mm (US 15) circular needles measuring 16 inches, along with 10mm double-pointed needles or a long 10mm circular needle suitable for the magic loop technique. A tapestry needle is needed for finishing and weaving in yarn ends. The pattern specifies a gauge of 4 stitches and 7 rows in stockinette stitch over a 2-inch by 2-inch square, which knitters should match to ensure proper sizing.

Skill Level and Suitability

Designed as an easy, beginner-level project, The Ade beanie is perfect for knitters new to circular knitting or those seeking a quick, satisfying make. The straightforward stitch pattern and minimal shaping make it an excellent introduction to hat construction without overwhelming complexity.