103 Hat

103 Hat by Jennifer Lassonde

Project Overview

The 103 Hat is a beginner-friendly knitted hat designed by Jennifer Lassonde, created as part of the Cast On Collaborative's December of Designers initiative. This downloadable PDF pattern features a distinctive stitch pattern inspired by ladder imagery, connecting to the designer's personal connection with Local 103 IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) in Boston. The hat design carries meaningful purpose, with first-day sales profits donated to National Alliance on Mental Illness Massachusetts to support mental health awareness and assistance.

Stitch Pattern and Design Details

The primary design element of the 103 Hat is its ladder stitch pattern, which creates a visual resemblance to rungs on a ladder throughout the fabric. This pattern serves as both an aesthetic feature and a symbolic reference to the daily work of electrical workers who climb ladders while installing and maintaining telecommunication lines. The ladder motif reinforces the hat's thematic connection to personal growth and the importance of taking one step at a time toward support and wellness.

Yarn and Materials

The 103 Hat is designed using DK weight yarn, making it suitable for quick completion and comfortable wear. The pattern is demonstrated in Goosey Fibers Goosey Squish yarn, shown in the Carolina colorway. This yarn blend consists of 75% Wool and 25% Nylon, providing durability, warmth, and resilience for a hat that will withstand regular use and washing.

Skill Level and Accessibility

Rated as a beginner difficulty pattern, the 103 Hat is accessible to knitters who are new to the craft or returning to knitting after a break. The straightforward construction and ladder stitch pattern make this an ideal project for developing fundamental knitting skills while creating a finished, wearable garment.