Slumber Hat

Slumber Hat by Kristen TenDyke

What Is Being Made

The Slumber Hat is a beginner-friendly knitted hat designed by Kristen TenDyke in five sizes: Newborn, Child Small, Child Large, Adult Small, and Adult Large. The finished hat circumference ranges from 13 inches for newborns to 20¼ inches for adult large, with corresponding lengths from 8½ to 13¾ inches. This project is ideal for knitters new to hat construction and in-the-round knitting techniques.

Knitting Techniques

The Slumber Hat employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The pattern uses Emily Ocker's Cast-on Method, a specialized cast-on technique that creates a stretchy, elastic foundation ideal for hat openings. The hat is worked in the round using double-pointed needles, which is a core skill for circular knitting projects. The pattern incorporates Right Lifted Increases (RLI) for shaping, a technique where the knitter uses the right needle to pick up the stitch below the cast-on edge to create new stitches. The project concludes with a bind-off, with an optional larger needle available for creating a looser, more elastic edge finish.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

While specific stitch abbreviations are referenced in the pattern, the Slumber Hat utilizes basic knitting stitches appropriate for a beginner project. The pattern employs stitch markers to track the beginning of rounds and pattern repeats, with the designer recommending three stitch markers in one color and one in a contrasting color to clearly mark the round beginning. The use of both main color (MC) and contrast color (CC) yarn allows for simple colorwork or striping effects.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Slumber Hat is designed for sport-weight yarn (CYCA #2, fine), a lightweight yarn that creates a delicate, breathable fabric. The yardage requirements vary by size: Newborn requires approximately 50 yards of main color and 25 yards of contrast color, while Adult Large requires approximately 140 yards of main color and 55 yards of contrast color. The pattern sample shown was knitted in 100% cashmere stash yarn, though any sport-weight yarn suitable for the gauge will work.

Tools and Notions

Knitters will need US Size 4 (3.5 mm) double-pointed needles (dpns) to work this project at the correct gauge, or the size needed to obtain the specified gauge. An optional larger double-pointed needle is available for a looser bind-off edge. Additional notions include four stitch markers (three in one color and one in a contrasting color), a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and a US Size E-4 (3.5 mm) crochet hook for abbreviations or finishing details. The matching needle and hook sizes ensure consistency throughout the project.