Stormy Seas Hat

Stormy Seas Hat by Kelly Menzies

Project Overview

The Stormy Seas Hat is an intermediate-level knitted hat design created by Kelly Menzies. This downloadable PDF pattern produces a finished hat with a circumference of approximately 51 cm (20 inches) and a height of approximately 22 cm (8.5 inches), making it a versatile size suitable for most adult wearers. The design was originally published in Let's Knit! Magazine in November 2016 and is available as a digital download for knitters seeking a moderately challenging project.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This hat is constructed using circular knitting techniques on 4mm (US 6) circular needles, with the pattern worked in the round to create a seamless, tubular garment. The design incorporates double-pointed needles of the same size (4mm / US 6) for the crown shaping in the final rounds. The pattern includes both written instructions and chart format, providing flexibility for knitters who prefer either method. Essential techniques used throughout the pattern include yarn overs for lace or textured elements, make-one increases for shaping, knit-two-together decreases, and slip-slip-knit decreases for refined finishing.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The Stormy Seas Hat employs fundamental knitting stitches combined into a cohesive stitch pattern. Core stitches include knit stitches, purl stitches, and yarn overs, which are combined to create the main pattern repeat. Decreases are worked using both k2tog (knit two stitches together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) methods, allowing for balanced shaping and professional finishing. The make-one stitch technique is used for strategic increases. A stitch marker is essential for tracking the beginning of each round and maintaining pattern alignment throughout the project.

Yarn and Materials

The Stormy Seas Hat is designed for DK weight yarn, requiring a total of 220 meters (242 yards) of yarn. The pattern sample shown in the photography was created using Drops Cotton Merino in shade 26, Storm Blue, requiring 2 balls of 50g each. DK weight yarn offers an excellent balance of drape and structure, making it ideal for hat construction. Knitters will need 4mm (US 6) circular needles and 4mm (US 6) double-pointed needles, along with one stitch marker to track rounds. A row counter is optional but helpful for tracking progress through the pattern.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 24 stitches and 30 rows over a 10 cm (4-inch) square, measured in pattern stitch on 4mm (US 6) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions. Knitters should always knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure proper fit and fabric characteristics.