Fizz Pop Hat

Fizz Pop Hat by Helen Kennedy

What is Being Made

The Fizz Pop Hat is an intermediate-level knitted hat designed by Helen Kennedy. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a colorwork hat worked in the round using DK weight yarn in a combination of colors: a primary color in blue (referred to as MC), with contrasting colors in white and natural tones (CC). The finished hat is suitable for those with some knitting experience who are comfortable working with multiple colors and maintaining even tension in the round.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs several key knitting techniques. The hat begins with an alternating cable cast on, which creates a flexible and attractive cast-on edge—a video reference is provided in the pattern for guidance. The hat is worked in the round, a fundamental technique for seamless hat construction that requires careful attention to avoid twisting stitches at the join. The pattern incorporates colorwork knitting, blending the main color with contrasting colors to create visual interest. Stitch markers are used throughout to track the beginning of each round, and the ribbed cuff section requires working with smaller needles to create elastic texture.

Stitches Used

The pattern features knit stitches as the primary stitch, particularly in the ribbed cuff section where alternating knit and purl stitches create the characteristic ribbed texture. The colorwork sections utilize knit stitches in multiple colors, creating a stranded or intarsia effect depending on the specific pattern repeat. The ribbed cuff provides stretch and helps the hat fit securely.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for DK weight yarn, specifically Black Elephant UK DK superwash merino. The main color (MC) in blue requires 90 meters (98 yards) from a 200-meter (100g) skein. Contrasting colors include white and natural tones, each requiring approximately 70 meters (77 yards) from 200-meter (100g) skeins. The pattern is shown in Ocean Warrior and Natural colorways.

Needles: The pattern accommodates two needle options. For the ribbed cuff, 3.5 mm (US 4) needles are used. The main body is worked on 3.75 mm (US 5) needles or the size required to obtain gauge. A 24-inch (60 cm) circular needle is recommended, though double-pointed needles (DPNs) are also suitable. The pattern provides two finished size options: 108 stitches and 120 stitches for different head circumferences.

Additional Notions: Stitch markers are essential for tracking the beginning of each round throughout the pattern.