Huntley

Huntley Knit Hat by Melissa Schaschwary

What is Being Made

Huntley is a downloadable knitting pattern for a hat designed by Melissa Schaschwary. This intermediate-level project creates a fitted, classic knit hat available in two sizes: Small (to fit 20-21"/51-53cm head circumference) and Medium/Large (to fit 22-24"/56-61cm head circumference). The pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with circular needles and basic shaping techniques.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Huntley hat employs several essential knitting techniques that define the intermediate skill level. The pattern utilizes circular knitting on 16-inch circular needles, which allows for seamless construction when working in the round. Shaping is achieved through strategic increases and decreases positioned throughout the pattern to create the hat's contoured fit. The pattern includes charted stitch work, as evidenced by the gauge measurement referencing "the first 9 sts of chart," indicating that knitters will follow a visual stitch diagram in addition to written instructions. The Alternate Cable Cast On method is recommended for this project, providing a sturdy, flexible edge suitable for hat construction.

Stitches and Stitch Abbreviations

The Huntley pattern incorporates fundamental knitting stitches and shaping techniques. Key stitches and abbreviations include:

• K (knit) - the basic knit stitch forming the primary fabric
• K tbl (knit through the back loop) - a twisted knit variation that creates a refined appearance
• P (purl) - the reverse of the knit stitch, used for textural contrast
• K2tog (knit two together) - a right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• P2tog (purl two together) - a decrease worked on purl stitches
• M1 (make one) - an invisible increase created by lifting the horizontal strand between stitches and knitting through the back loop, allowing for seamless stitch additions
• CO (cast on) - the foundation row of stitches
• St(s) (stitch/stitches) - individual loops of yarn on the needles

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Huntley hat requires 250 yards of worsted weight yarn, making it an efficient project that uses minimal yardage. The pattern accommodates knitters who prefer either aran or worsted weight yarns, providing flexibility in fiber selection. The recommended needle sizes are Size 5/3.75mm and Size 7/4mm circular needles (16-inch length), with Size 7/4mm dpns or a circular needle for magic loop technique offered as an alternative for the crown decreases. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends, and a stitch marker is essential for marking the beginning of each round during circular knitting. The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10cm) when worked on Size 7/4mm needles, ensuring proper fit when this gauge is achieved.