Mimi Clochette

Mimi Clochette Cloche Hat by Anna Elliott

What is Being Made

The Mimi Clochette is a vintage-inspired cloche hat design created by independent designer Anna Elliott. This downloadable knitting pattern produces a structured, close-fitting hat with a distinctive bell-shaped silhouette characteristic of cloche hat styling. The design features a double-thickness construction that provides excellent ear-warming qualities, making it practical for various seasons and activities from casual dog walking to working during lambing season. The pattern includes a faux button closure detail on the brim that can be customized with alternative decorative elements such as vintage brooches or knitted corsages.

Sizes and Finished Measurements

The Mimi Clochette pattern is available in four sizes: Baby, Toddler, Child, and Adult. Finished measurements are provided in a schematic included with the pattern. Illustration photos in the pattern show both adult and toddler sizes to help you visualize the finished hat on different head sizes.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The pattern utilizes both double-pointed needles and circular needle options, allowing knitters to choose their preferred method for working in the round. A cable needle is included in the optional supplies list, indicating that the cabled brim version incorporates cable stitches for textural interest. The double-thickness construction requires careful attention to shaping and decreasing to achieve the proper cloche silhouette.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While specific stitch abbreviations are referenced in the pattern documentation, the design incorporates cable stitches as an optional feature for the brim version. The pattern requires working with a tension of 17 stitches over a measured gauge to ensure proper fit across all four sizes. Knitters are advised to check their gauge carefully before beginning, as this is essential for achieving the desired finished measurements.

Yarn and Materials

The Mimi Clochette requires Artesano Aran yarn or a similar aran-weight substitute. Yardage requirements vary by size: Baby and Toddler sizes require 1 skein of 100g (132 meters per 100g), while Child and Adult sizes require 2 skeins. The pattern specifically notes that Artesano Aran is a fairly heavy aran yarn, so knitters should check and adjust their gauge carefully to ensure proper fit. Additional supplies include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, a stitch marker for tracking rounds, and 2 or 3 large buttons for the closure detail (or alternative decorative elements of your choice). A cable needle is optional and only needed if working the cabled brim version.

Needle Requirements

This pattern calls for 5mm double-pointed needles (dpns) or a 5mm circular needle, giving knitters flexibility in their preferred method for working small circumferences in the round. The choice between dpns and circular needles does not affect the final result, only the knitting process itself.