Ilma hat

Ilma Hat by Åsa Tricosa

What is Being Made

The Ilma hat is a knitted beret designed by Åsa Tricosa for Villavyyhti and The Great Finnish Yarn Club. This one-size beret fits head circumferences of approximately 50–56 cm (19½–22 inches) with a crown diameter of about 30 cm (12 inches) and a brim depth of approximately 10 cm (4 inches). The design features prominent stripes throughout, creating a visually striking colorwork pattern. The beret is constructed with a cushy ribbed interior brim that provides extra warmth and comfort during wear.

Construction Technique

The Ilma hat is knitted using a top-down construction method, which allows the knitter to begin at the crown and work downward toward the brim. This approach provides flexibility in fit and makes it easy to try on the hat as you progress. The top-down technique also means you can adjust the final length if desired before binding off. The striped colorwork is integrated throughout the construction, creating a cohesive design from crown to brim.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the pattern excerpt, the Ilma hat incorporates ribbing as a key stitch element. The cushy ribbing inside the brim is a notable feature that distinguishes this design, providing both elasticity and extra insulation. The striped pattern is created through color changes using the main color (MC) and contrasting color (CC), which are worked throughout the hat's construction. The gauge is 34 stitches by 35 rows over approximately 10 centimeters in stockinette stitch, which is typical for 4-ply yarn at this needle size.

Yarn and Materials

The Ilma hat is designed to be knitted with Knitlob's Lair Ilmarinen yarn, a 100% merino wool in 4-ply weight. Each skein contains 300 meters (330 yards) and weighs 100 grams. The pattern calls for one skein each of two colors: the main color in kurpitsa (orange) and a contrasting grey. The beret alone requires approximately 150 meters (165 yards) of the main color and 135 meters (150 yards) of the contrasting color. Notably, one skein of each color provides sufficient yardage for both the Ilma hat and a coordinating pair of Ilma Mittens, making this an efficient yarn choice for a coordinated set.

Needles and Notions

• 3 mm (US 2½) circular needle, 100 cm (40 inches) long, or alternatively 2 circular needles or double-pointed needles (dpns)
• 2.5 mm (US 1½) circular needle, 100 cm (40 inches) long, or alternatively 2 circular needles or dpns
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping
• Stitch holder or an extra smaller circular needle for holding stitches

Skill Level

The Ilma hat is rated as an intermediate knitting project. Knitters should be comfortable with circular needle techniques, color changes for striped patterns, and basic shaping methods. The top-down construction and ribbed brim require foundational skills in reading patterns and managing multiple colors, making this design suitable for knitters who have completed several projects and are ready to explore colorwork and more structured garment construction.

Format and Availability

The Ilma hat pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, allowing knitters to access the complete instructions digitally and print them if desired for reference while knitting.