Piped and Piped Pendants Hats

Piped and Piped Pendants Hats by NLS Stitches

Project Overview

The Piped and Piped Pendants Hats are textured crochet hat designs created by Nancy Smith of NLS Stitches. This downloadable PDF pattern offers versatility with one pattern available in three sizes and two distinct style options: the classic Piped hat or the Piped Pendant variation. Crafters can choose which style appeals to them, or create both versions to expand their hat collection.

What Is Being Made

These are fitted crochet hats designed to sit comfortably on the head with a structured crown and defined brim. The pattern is written for three head circumference sizes: Small (19-20 inches), Medium (21-22 inches), and Large (23-24 inches). The hats measure 7.5 inches (Small), 8 inches (Medium), or 8.5 inches (Large) from crown to brim, with a maximum width of 9, 10, or 11 inches respectively when laid flat. The textured design creates visual and tactile interest throughout the hat.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level crochet project incorporates several fundamental and decorative stitching techniques. The pattern uses a combination of basic crochet stitches to build texture and structure:

• Single Crochet (sc) – A foundational stitch that creates a tight, dense fabric
• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – A medium-height stitch used for varied texture
• Double Crochet (dc) – A taller stitch that adds height and openness to the fabric
• Front Post Double Crochet (fpdc) – A post stitch that creates raised texture by working around the post of stitches from previous rows, giving the hat its distinctive piped appearance
• Chain (ch) – Used for foundation and shaping

The pattern begins with rounds worked from the center crown outward, with the first 4 rounds creating a 4-inch diameter circle. The special banding rounds use a unique construction method that differs from typical hat patterns, adding to the design's distinctive character.

Gauge and Sizing

The gauge for this project is measured over 14 rows from the center of the crown downward, with approximately 11 stitches in the single crochet, single crochet, front post double crochet stitch pattern equaling 4 inches. Maintaining proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished hat size and ensuring the hat fits properly on the intended head circumference.

Difficulty Level and Skill Requirements

The Piped and Piped Pendants Hats are rated as Intermediate difficulty. However, the designer notes that an Advanced Beginner crocheter with patience and careful attention to instructions could successfully complete this project. The intermediate rating accounts for the use of post stitches and the special banding technique, which require understanding how to work stitches in non-traditional ways. Taking time to read and understand the Special Stitches section before beginning is recommended for success.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern is compatible with multiple yarn weights, offering flexibility in material selection. Crafters can work with DK weight, Sport weight, or Worsted weight yarn, allowing for different fabric densities and drape depending on preference. The appropriate crochet hook size would be selected based on the chosen yarn weight to achieve the specified gauge. The downloadable PDF format provides complete written instructions with abbreviations using American crochet terminology.