Pumpkin Hat

Pumpkin Hat by Sharon Mooney

What Is Being Made

The Pumpkin Hat (K301) is a knitted hat designed by Sharon Mooney that features a distinctive pumpkin-inspired silhouette. This downloadable PDF pattern offers two size options: Small, which fits head circumferences of 16 to 19 inches, and Large, which fits 20 to 22 inches. The hat combines two complementary colors of wool yarn to create visual depth and dimension characteristic of a pumpkin's natural appearance.

Craft and Techniques

This is a knitting project suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern employs circular knitting techniques using both 16-inch circular needles and double-pointed needles, which allows for seamless construction in the round. This method is ideal for creating fitted hats without seams. The use of two yarn colors throughout the design adds complexity to the construction process, requiring attention to color changes and pattern integration.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch, worked in the round on circular needles. This fundamental knitting stitch creates a smooth, classic fabric with a V-pattern appearance on the right side. The stockinette stitch is the foundation for achieving the proper gauge and the hat's finished appearance.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

For Size Small: The pattern calls for two skeins of Brown Sheep "Lanaloft Sports Weight" yarn, each weighing 1.75 ounces with 145 yards of yardage. One skein is in color LL66S Marmalade, and one is in color LL42S Sandstone Cove. Both skeins are 100% wool, providing warmth and durability. Size US 5 circular needles (16 inches) and size US 5 double-pointed needles are required for this size.

For Size Large: The pattern uses two skeins of Brown Sheep "Lanaloft Worsted Weight" yarn, also 100% wool, each 1.75 ounces with 145 yards. The same color selections apply: LL66S Marmalade and LL42S Sandstone Cove. Size US 8 circular needles (16 inches) and size US 8 double-pointed needles are used for the larger size.

Additional materials include a yarn needle or large embroidery needle for weaving in ends and finishing details.

Gauge Information

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished hat size. For Size Small: The pattern specifies 6 stitches and 8 rows per 1 inch on stockinette stitch using circular gauge. For Size Large: The gauge is 5 stitches and 6.5 rows per 1 inch on stockinette stitch using circular gauge. Knitters should swatch and measure their gauge carefully before beginning the project to ensure proper fit.