Go USA!

Go USA! Knit Hat by 3 Kittens Needle Arts

Project Overview

Go USA! is an intermediate-level knit hat pattern designed by Laura Rasmussen for 3 Kittens Needle Arts. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a patriotic hat featuring a distinctive i-cord border and colorwork construction. The finished hat is sized to fit head circumferences of 21-23 inches, making it suitable for most adult wearers.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a knit hat with a unique construction method. Rather than a traditional cast-on, the hat begins with a knitted i-cord border that is worked separately and then incorporated into the main body. The hat features a slouchy silhouette, with optional adjustments available for those preferring a less voluminous fit. The patriotic theme is achieved through a three-color yarn palette using red, natural, and navy colorways.

Techniques and Construction Methods

The Go USA! hat employs several intermediate-level knitting techniques that add visual interest and structural integrity to the finished garment. The pattern begins with i-cord construction, a tubular knitting technique worked on double-pointed needles that creates a decorative, rope-like border. This i-cord is worked to approximately 19 inches in length (or up to 25 inches when fully stretched) before being bound off.

Once the i-cord border is complete, the main hat body is created using the pick-up and knit technique, where stitches are picked up along one edge of the finished i-cord. This method seamlessly integrates the border with the crown, creating a unified construction. The pattern includes strategic increases worked during the pick-up row to shape the hat, with 7 stitches increased for a slouchy fit or as few as 2 stitches for a more fitted option. The hat is then worked in the round using circular needles, a standard technique for crown construction that eliminates the need for seaming.

Stitches Used

The Go USA! pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches suitable for intermediate crafters:

• Knit (K) – The primary stitch forming the fabric base
• Purl (P) – Used to create texture variation and pattern definition
• Make One (M1) – An increase technique for shaping the hat body
• Knit 2 Together (K2tog) – A decrease stitch for crown shaping and tapering
• Slip One (Sl1) – Used for stitch management and pattern transitions

Materials and Tools

The pattern calls for Imperial Yarn Erin in three distinct colorways: 352 Heart Red (Color A), 01 Natural (Color B), and 327 Navy (Color C). These premium yarns provide the patriotic color palette essential to the hat's design aesthetic. The specific yarn choice influences the final drape and texture of the finished hat.

Knitting needles required include a 16-inch circular needle in US 7 (4.5mm) size and a set of 16-inch double-pointed needles (DPNs) also in US 7 (4.5mm). The matching needle sizes ensure consistent gauge throughout the project. Additional tools include a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and a stitch marker for tracking round beginnings during in-the-round knitting.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 17 stitches and 29 rows per 4 inches, worked in stockinette stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions and fit. The hat accommodates head sizes of 21-23 inches, with the option to customize the fit by adjusting the number of increases during the pick-up row.

Pattern Support

The 3 Kittens Needle Arts designer provides supplementary video tutorials available on their YouTube channel to assist knitters with techniques featured in this pattern, making it accessible for intermediate-level crafters seeking additional guidance.