Ridged Whirl Hat

Ridged Whirl Hat by Lindsey Stephens

What is Being Made

The Ridged Whirl Hat is a cozy winter crochet hat designed to keep ears warm during cold weather. This intermediate-level project features a finished circumference of approximately 24 inches at the opening and stands 9.75 inches tall, making it a versatile size suitable for various head sizes. The hat's distinctive design showcases ridges that spiral upward along the sides, gradually decreasing in density as they progress toward the crown, which culminates in an elegant flower-like shape.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This design employs post stitches as the primary decorative technique, creating the signature ridged texture that defines the hat's visual appeal. Post stitches are worked by inserting the crochet hook around the post (vertical part) of stitches from previous rounds rather than into the top loops, which creates a dimensional, textured effect that spirals around the hat. The pattern uses a combination of standard crochet stitches to build the structure while the post stitches are strategically placed to form the whirling ridge pattern that gradually decreases toward the top, creating the flower-shaped crown.

Stitches Used

The Ridged Whirl Hat incorporates several fundamental crochet stitches:

• Double crochet (dc) – the primary stitch used throughout the construction
• Post stitches – worked around the post of stitches to create the distinctive ridged texture
• Chain stitch (ch) – used for turning and foundation work
• Slip stitch (sl st) – used to join rounds and create seamless transitions

Materials and Tools

The Ridged Whirl Hat requires 215 yards of worsted weight yarn. The sample was created using Lion Brand Vanna's Choice, a 100% acrylic yarn available in 3.5 ounce (100 gram) skeins with 170 yards (156 meters) per skein. Two skeins in colorway #174 Olive were used for the sample project. Crafters will need an I/9 (5.50 mm) crochet hook or the appropriate size needed to achieve the specified gauge of 12 double crochet stitches and 7 rounds measuring 4 inches square.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern is suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are comfortable working with post stitches and managing stitch decreases. The technique of inserting the hook around post stitches requires attention to detail and understanding of three-dimensional stitch construction, making it an ideal project for advancing crochet skills.