Basket Case Hat

Basket Case Hat by Cheryl Andrews

What Is Being Made

The Basket Case Hat is an adult-sized knitted hat available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The design features a distinctive band of basket weave stitch combined with four cables that converge neatly at the crown, creating both visual interest and structural integrity. Adult small sizing can also accommodate child large heads, making this pattern versatile for different head measurements.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental techniques. The hat is knitted in the round using circular needles and double-pointed needles, which creates a seamless construction. The pattern incorporates a rolled edge created by knitting four rounds in stockinette stitch before transitioning into the main stitch patterns. Blocking and wet-shaping techniques are employed to refine the finished edge, allowing knitters to either eliminate or enhance the natural scalloping that occurs where the rolled edge meets the basket weave band.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch patterns featured in this design are basket weave and cable stitches. The basket weave band forms the main body of the hat, while four distinct cables run vertically and meet at the top crown. These cables serve both decorative and functional purposes, providing texture and helping to shape the hat as it tapers toward the top. The stockinette stitch rolled edge provides a clean, finished appearance at the brim.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn Requirements: Approximately 150 yards of worsted weight yarn is needed to complete this hat. The sample was knitted using Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride worsted, a blend of 85% wool and 15% mohair, in the colorway M-116 Camel Back. One skein of 4 ounces (113 grams) with approximately 190 yards (173 meters) provides sufficient yardage.

Needles and Tools: This pattern requires size 6 circular needles measuring 16 inches and a set of five size 6 double-pointed needles for the crown shaping. One stitch marker is needed to denote the beginning of each round.

Gauge: The pattern is worked at a gauge of 18 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches when knitting in the round, which is typical for worsted weight yarn on size 6 needles.

Size Options

• Adult Small: 88 stitches cast on
• Adult Medium: 96 stitches cast on
• Adult Large: 104 stitches cast on

The stitch count increases proportionally across sizes to accommodate different head circumferences while maintaining consistent stitch pattern repeats and cable placement.