Rhinelander

Rhinelander Knit Hat by Melissa Schaschwary

What Is Being Made

The Rhinelander is an advanced knit hat designed to fit head circumferences of 20 to 22 inches (small/medium) or 22 inches (large). This downloadable knitting pattern creates a structured, finished hat suitable for cool weather wear, inspired by cozy autumn cabin aesthetics.

Knitting Techniques

This pattern employs several intermediate to advanced knitting techniques that give the Rhinelander its distinctive construction and shaping:

• Tubular Cast On: The pattern uses a tubular cast on method to create a seamless, professional edge. A helpful video reference is provided to guide knitters through this technique.
• Knitting in the Round: The hat is constructed circularly using circular needles and double-pointed needles, eliminating the need for seaming.
• Decreases: Strategic decreases including k3tog (knit three together) and sssk (slip, slip, slip, knit) shape the crown of the hat.
• Cable Stitches: The pattern incorporates 2/2 RC (right cable) stitches, adding textural interest and visual dimension to the finished hat.

Stitches Used

The Rhinelander combines basic and decorative stitches to create its finished appearance:

• Stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base
• Reverse stockinette (purl) stitches for contrast panels
• Cable stitches (2/2 RC) for textural detail
• Decreases (k3tog, sssk) for crown shaping
• Ribbing (knit and purl combinations) for structure

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Rhinelander pattern calls for specific materials to achieve the intended gauge and finished fabric:

• Yarn: 200 yards for small/medium or 260 yards for large, using Cascade Yarns 220 Worsted in 10 ply weight. This yarn yields 220 yards per 100 grams (3.53 ounces).
• Needles: Size 5 (3.75mm) 16-inch circular needles for the ribbed cuff, and Size 7 (4.5mm) 16-inch circular needles for the main body. A set of four Size 7 (4.5mm) double-pointed needles is required for the crown decreases.
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches of stockinette stitch. Obtaining correct gauge is essential for proper fit.
• Notions: A stitch marker is needed to mark the beginning of rounds.

Pattern Construction Overview

The Rhinelander begins with a cast-on of 104 stitches (small/medium) or 112 stitches (large) using the tubular cast-on method on smaller needles. Knitters join to work in the round, then transition to larger needles for the main body. The pattern features alternating panels of stockinette, reverse stockinette, and cable stitches that create vertical lines around the hat. Decreases are strategically placed to shape the crown, with the pattern showing decreases of 16 stitches occurring at specific intervals. The combination of knit and purl stitches in a (k1, p1) ribbing pattern provides elasticity and structure throughout.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced and is best suited for experienced knitters. The tubular cast-on, cable stitches, multiple decrease techniques, and transition between needle sizes require solid foundational knitting skills and comfort with working in the round.