Eleonore Hat & Scarf

Eleonore Hat & Scarf by Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton

Project Overview

The Eleonore Hat & Scarf is a coordinated knitting set designed by independent designer Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton. This beginner-friendly project combines a textured scarf with a fitted hat, both worked in worsted and aran weight yarns. The designs showcase classic knitting techniques suitable for crafters new to the craft.

What Is Being Made

This pattern includes two complementary pieces: a generous rectangular scarf and a close-fitting hat. The scarf measures 98 inches in length and approximately 7.5 inches in width, making it a substantial accessory perfect for layering. The hat features a circumference of 21.5 inches and a height of approximately 6.5 inches, designed to fit a standard adult head size.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Garter Stitch – The primary stitch structure for both the scarf and the main body of the hat, creating a reversible, textured fabric with horizontal ridges
• Stockinette Stitch – Used in sections worked with yarn B, providing a smooth, classic knit appearance
• Yarn Overs – Decorative increases that create small holes in the fabric, adding visual interest
• Knit Togethers – Decreases used strategically in the hat's shaping, particularly in the crown reduction row
• Backwards Loop Increases – A simple increase method for adding stitches without disrupting fabric flow
• Binding Off – Finishing technique to secure the final row of stitches

Stitches and Construction Details

The scarf begins with a cast-on of 98 stitches and is worked entirely in Garter Stitch using yarn A, continuing until the yarn is exhausted. This straightforward construction makes it ideal for beginners. The hat is similarly accessible, cast on with 24 stitches and worked in Garter Stitch for 4 1/3 inches before shaping begins. The hat's crown is decreased using a systematic reduction row that knits together every 11th and 12th stitch, creating 8 decreases across the row. A decorative ruffle finish adds a delicate detail to the hat's edge.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The complete set requires 210 yards of Cashmere Island yarn in colorway #5 (A), worked in worsted weight, and 198 yards of Cash Iroha yarn in colorway #112 (B), worked in aran weight. The combination of these two distinct yarn weights and textures creates visual and tactile variety between the pieces.

Needles and Gauge

The scarf is worked on US 6 / 4 mm needles, while the hat uses US 8 / 5 mm needles for the main fabric. Two US 8 / 5 mm circular needles are required for hat construction. Gauge is critical for proper fit: 18 stitches and 36 rows equal 4 inches in Garter Stitch with yarn A, while 16 stitches and 20 rows equal 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch with yarn B. Knitters are advised to always check gauge before beginning and adjust needle size as needed to achieve the correct measurements.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner project, the Eleonore Hat & Scarf introduces fundamental knitting skills including basic cast-on, simple stitch patterns, and straightforward shaping. The repetitive nature of Garter Stitch makes this pattern meditative and forgiving for new knitters, while the coordinated set provides a satisfying finished project.