Luna

Luna Hat by Alexandra Davidoff

What is Being Made

Luna is a knitted hat designed by Alexandra Davidoff, crafted as a one-size-fits-most accessory with finished measurements of 18 inches (46 centimeters) in circumference and 10 inches (25 centimeters) in length. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a sophisticated, textured hat suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

This hat employs several key knitting techniques that contribute to its elegant construction and finished appearance. The pattern utilizes two yarns held together throughout the project, which adds depth and visual interest while creating a more substantial fabric. The hat begins with a German Twisted Cast On, a technique that produces a professional, finished edge ideal for visible cast-on rows. The design incorporates stockinette stitch as the primary stitch pattern, creating a smooth, classic fabric base. Cable work is featured in the design, requiring the use of a cable needle to create twisted or braided stitch patterns that add textural dimension to the hat.

The construction method involves working in the round using circular needles and double-pointed needles, a standard approach for hat knitting that eliminates the need for seaming. The pattern uses stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping throughout the rounds, ensuring consistent stitch placement and preventing mistakes during the more complex sections.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Luna hat primarily features stockinette stitch, which is worked in the round to create a smooth, V-shaped texture on the right side of the fabric. This foundational stitch is combined with cable stitches that create twisted or braided effects throughout the hat's body, adding visual complexity and tactile interest. The pattern includes repeat sections indicated by asterisks, allowing knitters to work multiple pattern repeats across the circumference of the hat.

Yarns and Materials

The Luna hat is designed to be worked with two distinct yarns held together simultaneously, creating a luxurious and textured final product. The first yarn is Kidsilk Lace by Hedgehog Fibers, a delicate lace-weight yarn composed of 70 percent kid mohair and 30 percent silk. One skein provides 50 grams and 420 meters of fiber, and the pattern calls for the color Ghost. The second yarn is Sock Yarn by Hedgehog Fibers, a durable blend of 90 percent merino wool and 10 percent nylon. One skein of this yarn provides 100 grams and 400 meters of yardage, and the pattern specifies the color Iris.

The combination of these two yarns creates a sophisticated blend: the kid mohair and silk contribute softness, breathability, and a subtle sheen, while the merino wool and nylon add warmth, elasticity, and durability. This pairing is particularly effective for a hat that requires both comfort and structural integrity.

Needles and Notions

The Luna hat pattern requires specific needle sizes to achieve the correct gauge. Knitters will need US4 (3.5mm) circular needles for the cast-on and initial ribbing or edging, and US6 (4.0mm) circular needles measuring 16 inches (41 centimeters) for the main body of the hat. As the hat decreases toward the crown, a set of five US6 (4.0mm) double-pointed needles allows for continued working in the round when the stitch count becomes too small for the circular needle.

Additional notions required include a cable needle for manipulating stitches during cable work, four stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping, a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and finishing, and a lush pompom for the crown finish. The pompom adds a playful, decorative element to the completed hat.

Gauge and Difficulty

The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rounds equal 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked over stockinette stitch using US6 (4.0mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for the hat to fit properly at the finished measurements. The Luna hat is rated as an intermediate skill level project, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques such as casting on, knitting in the round, and reading pattern instructions, but who are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns like cables and working with multiple