Aspen Cabled Ear Flap Beanie

Aspen Cabled Ear Flap Beanie

What is Being Made

The Aspen Cabled Ear Flap Beanie is a crocheted winter hat designed by Deja Jetmir and available through Knit and Crochet Ever After. This intermediate-level project creates a finished beanie with an approximate circumference of 20.5 inches and a height of 7 inches from the top, not including the decorative pom pom. The design features ear flaps for added warmth and protection in cold weather, making it both functional and stylish for everyday wear.

Techniques Used

This crochet pattern employs several key techniques to achieve its structured, textured appearance. The pattern utilizes a special stitch called the Tall Chain (Tall CH), which replaces the traditional beginning chain-3 and creates a taller foundation for rows. This technique involves pulling up a loop as tall as a double crochet, then locking it in with another chain stitch, with the first double crochet worked into the first stitch of the row. The beanie also incorporates cabled stitching, which creates the distinctive textured pattern that gives the hat its visual interest and dimension. Gauge matching is emphasized as critically important for achieving the correct finished size, with instructions to adjust hook size up or down based on swatch measurements. The pattern allows for customization by changing hook sizes—using a larger hook produces a larger beanie, while a smaller hook creates a smaller version.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used in this pattern is the double crochet (DC), which forms the foundation of the fabric. The pattern also incorporates cable stitches to create the textured, dimensional effect characteristic of the Aspen design. The Tall Chain stitch serves as a special technique for beginning rows, replacing standard chain-3 foundations and providing a neater, more professional edge.

Materials

This project requires approximately 250 yards of yarn. The recommended yarn is Red Heart Soft in the colorway Deep Sea (E728), which is a medium worsted weight yarn available at 141 grams and 256 yards per skein. Any medium worsted weight yarn can be substituted if the specified yarn is unavailable. The pattern calls for a 5.5mm (US-I) crochet hook for the gauge specified in the pattern (2 inches equals 7 stitches and 4.5 rows). Additionally, the project requires two pom pom makers in sizes 3 inches and 2 inches—the pattern recommends using Clover brand pom pom makers for creating the decorative topper. A tutorial for making a tall chain is included at the end of the pattern for reference.

Gauge and Sizing

The specified gauge for this pattern is 2 inches equaling 7 stitches and 4.5 rows. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for producing a beanie that fits properly at the finished measurements. Crafters should swatch before beginning and adjust their hook size accordingly—going down a hook size if the swatch is too large, or going up a hook size if the swatch is too small.