Phowa Hat

Phowa Hat by Kristen TenDyke

What Is Being Made

The Phowa Hat is an intermediate-level knitted hat designed by Kristen TenDyke for eco-conscious crafters. This pattern offers three finished size options with circumferences of 16 inches (40.5 cm), 20 inches (51 cm), and 24 inches (61 cm), and corresponding lengths of 7 inches (18 cm), 10 inches (25.5 cm), and 10.5 inches (26.5 cm). The hat features a colorwork design created with four distinct yarn colors, making it a visually interesting project suitable for knitters with some experience.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Phowa Hat employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern utilizes circular knitting worked in the round, which is a standard method for constructing seamless hats. The construction requires working with both circular needles and double-pointed needles (dpns), allowing crafters to transition from larger circumferences to smaller sections as the crown decreases. Colorwork is a primary design element, with the hat incorporating four separate yarn colors (A, B, C, and D) to create its distinctive patterned appearance. This multicolor approach adds visual depth while remaining accessible to intermediate knitters.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided pattern information, the gauge specification of 19 stitches indicates the density and scale of the knit fabric. The pattern construction involves standard knit stitches worked across multiple rounds to build the hat's body and crown shaping. The use of stitch markers is recommended to help track pattern repeats and construction sections throughout the project.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Phowa Hat is designed for worsted weight yarn (CYCA #4 Medium), a versatile and commonly available yarn weight that provides good stitch definition and drape. The pattern is shown in Mirasol Miski, a premium yarn composed of 100% baby llama fiber, with each skein weighing 50 grams and providing approximately 83 yards (76 meters) of yardage. The specific yardage requirements vary by size: Color A requires 33 yards (30 m) for the smallest size up to 74 yards (68 m) for the largest; Colors B, C, and D each require 15 yards (14 m) to 35 yards (32 m) depending on size. The hat is shown in four Mirasol Miski colorways: snowdrop #100 (Color A), limestone #110 (Color B), steel #133 (Color C), and bark #116 (Color D).

Needles and Notions

Construction requires US 8 / 5 mm knitting needles in two configurations: a 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle for the main body and a set of 4 or 5 double-pointed needles (dpns) for working the crown decreases. Needle size may be adjusted as needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional notions include waste yarn for provisional cast-on or stitch holding, stitch markers to track pattern sections and colorwork repeats, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and finishing.

Design by Kristen TenDyke

This pattern is designed by Kristen TenDyke, a knitwear designer and technical editor, and is part of Caterpillar Knits, a collection of knit and crochet patterns created specifically for eco-conscious crafters. The use of natural fiber yarns like baby llama reflects the designer's commitment to sustainable and environmentally mindful fiber arts.