Berlin Hat

Berlin Hat by Stefanie Bold

What is Being Made

The Berlin Hat is a classic knitted hat designed by independent designer Stefanie Bold. This pattern creates a fitted, elegant hat available in three sizes to accommodate head circumferences of 52–54.5–57 cm (20.5–21.5–22.5 inches), with finished measurements of 49.5–52–54 cm (19.5–20.5–21.25 inches). The hat is designed with approximately 5% negative ease, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit that stays securely in place.

Techniques Used

The Berlin Hat employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques suitable for beginners looking to expand their skills. The pattern utilizes circular knitting, worked in the round using circular needles to create seamless construction. A provisional cast-on is used to begin the project, allowing stitches to be picked up later for a folded hem finish. The hat features a folded hem at the brim, which creates a professional, polished edge and adds structure to the hat's opening. Left twist stitches are incorporated into the stitch pattern, adding subtle texture and visual interest to the finished piece.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is stockinette stitch, worked in the round to create a smooth, classic fabric. The pattern also includes left twist (LT) stitches, which are created by slipping stitches and twisting them to add decorative detail. The folded hem construction requires picking up stitches from the provisional cast-on, demonstrating an intermediate finishing technique.

Materials and Specifications

• Yarn: Fingering weight sock yarn, requiring 280–295–310 meters depending on size
• Needles: Circular needle 2mm (US 0) for main knitting; circular needle 2.5mm (US 1.5) or 0.5mm larger for hem pickup. Needles may be 40cm (16 inches) long or longer, with magic loop technique as an alternative
• Additional tools: Small circular needle or waste yarn for the folded hem, waste yarn for provisional cast-on, optional stitch marker, and blunt sewing needle for finishing
• Gauge: 34 stitches and 50 rounds over 10cm (4 inches) in stockinette stitch using smaller needles—notably finer than standard gauge, requiring careful gauge checking before beginning

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner level, making it accessible to newer knitters while introducing techniques such as circular knitting, provisional cast-ons, and twisted stitches that build foundational skills.