Pimlico

Pimlico Hat by Brixton Purl

What Is Being Made

The Pimlico is a knitted beanie hat designed by Brixton Purl as an accessible beginner-level project. Available in adult sizes M and L, this hat features a subtle slouch silhouette and is specifically engineered to minimize purling by being knit inside out. The finished hat measures 22 cm across the bottom when laid flat (doubled) and stands 21 cm in height after blocking, making it a versatile everyday accessory suitable for various head sizes and style preferences.

Techniques Used

The Pimlico employs a distinctive construction method that prioritizes ease of execution for newer knitters. By knitting the hat inside out, the pattern significantly reduces the number of purl stitches required, which streamlines the knitting process and helps beginners develop consistent tension. The hat is worked in the round using a progressive decrease sequence that gradually shapes the crown. The sample shown was knit 18 cm from cast-on to the start of decreases, creating a small slouch effect, though the pattern explicitly notes that the design is easily modified—knitters can adjust the length before decreases to create either a shorter, closer-fitting beanie or a more pronounced slouch depending on personal preference.

Stitches Used

The stitch pattern relies on fundamental knitting techniques accessible to beginners:

• Knit stitch (k)—the primary stitch forming the main fabric
• Purl stitch (p)—used sparingly due to the inside-out construction method
• Purl through back loop (ptbl)—creates twisted purl stitches that contribute to the hat's structure
• Purl two together through back loop (p2tog tbl)—the decrease stitch used throughout the crown shaping sequence

The crown shaping occurs over 11 rounds of decreases, with each round strategically reducing stitch count while maintaining pattern integrity. The final rounds consolidate remaining stitches until only 9 stitches remain, which are then pulled tight and secured.

Materials and Tools

The Pimlico requires minimal materials, making it an economical project:

• Yarn: Approximately 125 meters of DK weight yarn (55–60 grams total). DK yarn is a medium-weight option that knits to a standard gauge, making it forgiving for beginners while producing a fabric with good drape and structure suitable for hat wear.
• Needles: 4.5 mm double-pointed needles (dpns) or circular needles, depending on knitter preference for working in the round
• Additional tools: A darning needle for weaving in ends after completion
• Gauge: 20 stitches per 10 cm (4 inches) in stockinette stitch, which helps ensure the finished hat achieves the intended measurements

Pattern Summary

The Pimlico is cast on with either 96 stitches (size M) or 108 stitches (size L) and worked in the round to the desired length before crown decreases begin. The inside-out construction means the knitter works primarily with knit stitches on the right side, with purl stitches and their twisted variations appearing less frequently. This approach reduces the technical demands on beginners while still producing a finished hat with polished appearance. The crown decreases follow a logical progression across 11 rounds, systematically reducing stitch count until the hat is closed. After blocking, the finished hat provides a comfortable, slouchy fit ideal for casual wear.