Mighzal, the Kufic Square

Mighzal, the Kufic Square Knit Hat

Design Overview

Mighzal, the Kufic Square is an intermediate-level knit hat designed by Sarah Sipe, inspired by historical spindle whorls bearing Arabic script. The design features a traditional Kufic square—a geometric Arabic design that transforms a word or phrase into an attractive visual pattern. The hat's name, Mighzal, is Arabic for spindle or spinning wheel, connecting the design directly to its historical inspiration. This slouchy hat combines cultural heritage with modern knitting, creating a wearable piece that celebrates both spinning traditions and Arabic calligraphy.

Hat Specifications

• Finished Dimensions: 9.5 inches (25cm) deep with a 20-inch (50cm) circumference
• Fit: Designed to fit a 22-inch (56cm) head circumference
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Style: Slouchy construction

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This hat is worked in the round using stockinette stitch as the primary stitch pattern. The Kufic square design is integrated into the knitting, requiring attention to stitch placement and pattern reading. Working in the round on larger needles creates the fabric structure, while the geometric Kufic pattern adds visual complexity to the design.

Gauge and Needle Requirements

The pattern calls for a gauge of 18 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches (10cm) in stockinette stitch worked in the round on larger needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions. The designer notes that the example hat was knit with yarn that blooms considerably after blocking, which affects the final appearance and drape of the finished piece.

Materials

• Yarn: Peace Fleece
• Needles: Larger needles suitable for working in the round to the specified gauge

Design Inspiration

The Mighzal hat draws from two significant historical sources. The first inspiration came from a spindle whorl seen on an auction website, identified as bearing Arabic script in Kufic style. The second source was Norwegian archaeological discoveries of spindle whorls with readable words scratched into them, such as "Gunnhildr made the spindle whorl." This combination of Kufic script fascination and the tradition of leaving messages on spindles informed the creation of this design, merging cultural textile traditions with contemporary knitting practice.