Bowers Harbor

Bowers Harbor Knit Hat by Sierra Morningstar

What is Being Made

Bowers Harbor is a downloadable knitting pattern for a squishy, close-fitting hat designed by independent designer Sierra Morningstar. This intermediate-level project creates a finished hat measuring 18.5 inches (46 cm) in circumference and 8.5 inches (21.5 cm) in height when blocked. The hat features a generous amount of lateral stretch and will comfortably accommodate head sizes up to 22 inches (56 cm), making it a versatile fit for most wearers.

Construction Method and Techniques

Bowers Harbor is knit in the round from the bottom up using circular needles and double-pointed needles, a construction method that eliminates the need for seaming and creates a seamless, professional finish. The pattern combines simple twists and cables to create an intricate-looking fabric that is deceptively easy to knit, making it an excellent choice for knitters developing their cable skills. The cable work is the focal point of the design, creating visual interest and texture throughout the hat.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern features two primary stitch patterns that work together to create the finished hat:

• Cable Pattern: This repeating pattern incorporates right purl crossovers (RPC), left purl crossovers (LPC), right twists (RT), and left twists (LT), combined with reverse stockinette sections (p2 and p4). The cable pattern is worked over multiple rounds and creates the textured, twisted appearance characteristic of the design.
• Stockinette Stitch: Used in sections of the hat to balance the cable pattern and create areas of smooth knit fabric.

Yarn and Materials

Bowers Harbor requires 185 yards (151 meters) of DK or Light Worsted Weight yarn. The sample shown in the pattern was knit using Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok, a 100% wool yarn available in 50-gram skeins with 123 yards (112 meters) per skein—requiring 2 skeins for completion. The sample color is 1310 Cranberry Compote, though the pattern can be worked in any DK or Light Worsted Weight yarn of your choice.

Gauge and Needles

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this pattern. The cable pattern gauge is 26 stitches and 32 rounds over 4 inches (10 cm), while stockinette stitch gauge is 21 stitches and 32 rounds over 4 inches (10 cm). The pattern calls for US size 6 (4 mm) circular and double-pointed needles, or whatever size is necessary to obtain the specified gauge. A 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle is recommended for working the hat in the round.

Additional Notions

Beyond yarn and needles, you will need a stitch marker to mark the beginning of rounds, a cable needle for executing the cable crossovers, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends upon completion.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable working in the round and executing cable stitches. The straightforward construction combined with the manageable cable pattern makes it an ideal project for knitters looking to build confidence with cable work.