Anthony

Anthony Knit Hat by Olive & Pearl Knits

Project Overview

Anthony is a downloadable knitting pattern for a customizable hat design offered in two distinct silhouettes. This intermediate-level project combines classic knit construction with cable detailing, creating a versatile hat suitable for various occasions and personal style preferences.

What Is Being Made

The Anthony pattern produces a finished hat available in two size options: a standard One Size hat measuring 9 inches from top to cast-on edge, and a Slouchy version measuring 10 inches from top to cast-on edge. Both versions are designed to fit heads up to 23 inches in circumference. The pattern accommodates customization based on individual sizing preferences, allowing knitters to adjust the final garment to their specific measurements.

Knitting Techniques & Construction

This intermediate knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques to create the finished hat. The construction begins with a cast-on edge worked on smaller needles, transitioning to larger needles for the main body of the hat. The pattern utilizes circular needle construction, which allows for seamless knitting in the round—a hallmark of modern hat design that eliminates the need for seaming.

The decrease shaping at the crown is accomplished using either double-pointed needles or the magic loop method with longer circular needles, both techniques allowing knitters to work with a decreasing number of stitches as the hat tapers toward the top. Cable detailing is incorporated into the design, requiring the use of a cable needle to create twisted stitch patterns that add visual interest and texture to the finished garment.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) - The fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl (P) - Used to create texture and pattern variation
• Knit 2 Together (K2tog) - A right-leaning decrease stitch used during crown shaping
• Slip, Slip, Knit (SSK) - A left-leaning decrease stitch created by slipping two stitches individually knitwise onto the right needle, then inserting the left needle into the front of these stitches and knitting them together. This decrease is also used during crown shaping
• Cable Stitches - Created using a cable needle to twist stitches and form the cable pattern detail

Materials & Yarn Specifications

The Anthony hat pattern is designed to work with DK weight yarn, with yardage requirements between 50 to 60 grams depending on the chosen size. The pattern notes that solid and tonal yarn colors best showcase the stitch definition and cable detailing of the design. The yarn weight and yardage are customizable, allowing knitters to adjust based on their specific sizing needs.

The needle requirements include US Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needles measuring 16 inches for the ribbed brim section, which creates elasticity and a snug fit at the edge of the hat. The main body is worked on US Size 6 (4mm) circular needles, also 16 inches in length. For the final crown decreases, knitters will need either US Size 6 (4mm) double-pointed needles or longer circular needles to accommodate the magic loop technique. A cable needle is required for working the cable stitch pattern throughout the design.

Additional Notions & Tools

Beyond yarn and needles, the Anthony pattern requires standard knitting notions including stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points. One unique stitch marker is essential, with additional markers recommended if working multiple pattern repeats. A ruler or measuring tape is necessary for checking gauge and verifying finished measurements. A tapestry or darning needle is used for weaving in yarn ends upon completion. The pattern includes an optional pompom as a finishing embellishment.

Gauge Information

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished hat dimensions. When working on US Size 3 needles with DK yarn, the gauge is 32 stitches and 40 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, measured from the brim before blocking. When working on US Size 6 needles, the gauge is 24 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches, also measured before blocking. Knitters should swatch and measure their gauge before beginning the project to ensure proper fit.