Skift Hat

Skift Hat by Laura Reinbach

What is Being Made

The Skift Hat is a knitted winter hat designed by Laura Reinbach. Named after the term "skift"—a light fall of snow or rain—this hat combines practical warmth with elegant stitch detailing. The pattern is available in two adult sizes: Adult S to fit head circumference of 21 inches (53.5 cm) and Adult L to fit 23 inches (58.5 cm). The finished hat measures 18.25 inches (46.5 cm) in circumference for the small size and 20.5 inches (52 cm) for the large size, with a length of 10.25 inches (26 cm) for small and 10.75 inches (27.5 cm) for large when the brim is unfolded.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create its finished structure. The pattern begins with a German Twisted Cast On, a method that creates a neat, twisted edge ideal for ribbed cuffs and hat brims. The main construction uses circular knitting worked in the round on circular needles, which eliminates seams and creates seamless fabric. Cable knitting is featured prominently in the stitch pattern, requiring the use of cable needles to create twisted rope-like textures. The pattern provides both written and charted instructions, allowing knitters to follow either format based on personal preference. Finishing techniques include blocking the gauge swatch unstretched to achieve accurate measurements.

Stitches Used

The Skift Hat features a foundation of 2x2 ribbing, which creates the elastic, textured brim. Cable stitches form the primary decorative element, specifically 2/2 Right Cable (2/2 RC), which is worked by slipping 2 stitches onto a cable needle, holding it at the back, knitting the next 2 stitches, then knitting the 2 stitches from the cable needle. This creates the characteristic twisted cable pattern that gives the hat visual interest and dimension. The combination of ribbing and cable work provides both stretch and structure to the finished garment.

Materials and Tools

The pattern calls for sport weight yarn, specifically Quince & Co. Chickadee in the Organic Heathers line. This yarn is composed of 100% organic wool and offers 164 yards (150 meters) per 50-gram skein. Two skeins are required for either size, with the sample shown knit in the color Audouin. Needles required include US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles in 16-inch (40 cm) length and US 4 (3.5 mm) double-pointed needles (dpns) for working the crown decreases. Additional notions include 2 cable needles for managing the cable stitches, stitch markers to track pattern repeats and size increases, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends. The gauge is 28 stitches and 35 rounds over 4 inches (10 cm) when working 2x2 rib in the blocked, unstretched state.