Donegal Cap

Donegal Cap by Cheryl Andrews

What is Being Made

The Donegal Cap is an Irish-inspired driving cap designed for adults with a medium head circumference of 22-23 inches. This intermediate-level knitting project combines a structured brim with a rounded crown, creating a classic, sporty hat reminiscent of traditional Irish driving caps. The design is ideal for those seeking a polished, vintage-style accessory with modern construction techniques.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The brim is constructed using the knit-on cast-on method and worked flat (back and forth) on circular needles rather than in the round, creating a structured foundation. The transition from flat brim work to circular crown construction requires understanding how to shift between working methods seamlessly. The pattern utilizes circular needle knitting for the main crown shaping, which allows for even stitch distribution and symmetrical decreasing to form the cap's rounded top.

Stitches and Construction Details

While the complete stitch pattern details are not fully visible in the provided excerpt, the pattern works at a gauge of 19 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches when knitting in the round. The cast-on begins with 52 stitches worked tightly to establish a secure brim edge. The intermediate difficulty level suggests the pattern incorporates shaping decreases and possibly textured stitches or colorwork elements typical of traditional Irish knitwear, though specific stitch names are not detailed in the available content.

Yarn and Materials

The Donegal Cap offers flexibility in yarn weight selection. The pattern can be worked in DK weight yarn, requiring 350 yards with 2 strands held together, or alternatively in worsted weight. The sample was knitted using Elsebeth Lavold's Hempathy yarn, a blend of 34% hemp, 41% cotton, and 25% modal fiber. This particular yarn provides 140 meters (153 yards) per 50-gram skein, and the sample required 2 and 1/3 skeins when working with 2 strands held together.

The designer recommends choosing a fiber with a fairly firm hand and good structure retention, such as hemp blends or similar natural fibers. This fiber choice ensures the cap maintains its shape and structured appearance during wear and after washing.

Needles and Tools

The pattern calls for size 6 circular needles. Knitters have two options: either two 16-inch circular needles or one 16-inch circular needle paired with one longer circular needle (longer than 16 inches). The use of multiple circular needles or the two-circular-needle method accommodates the transition from flat brim construction to in-the-round crown knitting, providing flexibility for different knitting preferences and hand sizes.

Design Origin and Inspiration

Created by designer Cheryl Andrews, the Donegal Cap draws inspiration from classic Irish driving caps, evoking imagery of scenic drives through Ireland's green hills. The design balances traditional aesthetic appeal with contemporary knitting construction, making it suitable for intermediate knitters seeking a project with both technical interest and wearable, timeless style.