Let's Purl Hat

Let's Purl Hat by Barbara Nalewko

What Is Being Made

The Let's Purl Hat is a beginner-friendly knitted beanie designed to fit heads approximately 22 inches (56 centimeters) in circumference, with some flexibility for sizing variations. This free knitting pattern and tutorial is the second in a series by designer Barbara Nalewko, following her JUST KNIT HAT pattern. The hat is suitable for personal wear or as a handmade gift.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern teaches fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. The hat is knit from the bottom up using circular needles, which allows for seamless construction in the round. The pattern includes instruction on the Long Tail Cast On Method, a foundational casting technique that creates a professional edge. Decreasing is accomplished using the same method demonstrated in the designer's JUST KNIT HAT pattern, making it easy for knitters familiar with that tutorial to follow along.

Stitches Used

The Let's Purl Hat incorporates two essential knitting stitches:

• Knit Stitch – the fundamental stitch that forms the base of most knitted fabrics
• Purl Stitch – the reverse of the knit stitch, which creates texture and visual interest when combined with knit stitches

The combination of knit and purl stitches creates a textured, visually appealing fabric. This pattern is designed to help knitters practice and master both stitches in a practical, wearable project.

Materials and Yarn

The Let's Purl Hat is worked in super chunky weight yarn, which means the project works up quickly and is ideal for beginners. You will need circular needles appropriate for your yarn weight (check your yarn label for recommended needle size), and yarn that matches the super chunky weight specification. The designer recommends verifying that your chosen yarn matches the weight indicated on its label to ensure proper fit and fabric drape.

Pattern Format and Access

This pattern is available as a free downloadable PDF, accompanied by a step-by-step video tutorial on the designer's YouTube channel, knittingILove. The combination of written pattern and video instruction makes it particularly accessible for beginners learning these techniques for the first time.