THE SNAT

THE SNAT by Monica Russel: Lacy Knit Hat, Snood, and Cowl

What is Being Made

THE SNAT is a versatile knit accessory designed by Monica Russel that functions as three garments in one. This clever design can be worn as a lacy hat, a snood (a close-fitting neck tube), or a cowl (a draped neck wrap). The convertible nature of the pattern allows crafters to undo the tie closure and reconfigure the piece into different styles, making it an exceptionally practical and creative knitting project.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques that add visual interest and texture to the finished piece. The pattern features lace stitch work, which creates an openwork, decorative fabric through strategic yarn overs and decreases. The lace rows are interspersed with purl rows to create a balanced, reversible aesthetic. Additionally, the pattern uses ribbing (alternating knit and purl stitches) for the foundation rows, which provides structure and elasticity to the accessory. The yarn is worked double throughout, meaning two strands are held together during knitting, which increases the fabric weight and creates a more substantial, warm garment suitable for neck wear.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) – the fundamental stitch creating smooth, vertical columns
• Purl (P) – the reverse of knit, creating texture and definition
• Knit through back loop (KTBL) – a twisted stitch variation for added texture
• Yarn over (YO) – creates the decorative holes characteristic of lace patterns
• Slip, slip, knit (SS, K1, PSSO) – a left-leaning decrease used in the lace motif
• Knit two together (K2tog) – a right-leaning decrease that pairs with yarn overs to form the lace pattern
• Ribbing (K2, P2) – alternating knits and purls for elastic edge definition

Lace Pattern Structure

The lace stitch repeats across multiple rows with varying decreases and yarn overs. Row 7 establishes the pattern with slip-slip-knit decreases paired with yarn overs and knit stitches, all framed by purl stitches. Rows 9 and 11 build upon this foundation with increasingly complex arrangements of decreases and yarn overs, creating a sophisticated openwork design. The purl borders (P3 at each end, P2 between repeats) frame the lace sections and provide visual separation.

Materials and Specifications

THE SNAT is constructed using premium natural fibers: 3 balls of DK weight yarn (50 grams each, totaling 150 grams) composed of 70% Fine Alpaca and 30% Bluefaced Leicester. The Bluefaced Leicester is handspun in England, adding artisanal quality to the finished piece. The yarn is available in the colorway Moss/Damson. Two needle sizes are required: 3.5mm needles for the ribbed foundation (cast on 94 stitches) and 4.5mm needles for the lace sections. The pattern specifies a tension of 16.2 stitches per 10 centimeters over lace stitch using yarn double, with row gauges of 6, 8, 10, and 12 rows depending on the section.

Yarn Weight and Difficulty

This pattern is worked in DK (double knitting) weight yarn, a versatile mid-weight that creates a fabric with good drape and warmth without excessive bulk. The project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace techniques and multiple stitch types. The combination of ribbing, stockinette, and openwork lace requires attention to stitch counts and pattern repeats, but the clear abbreviations and row-by-row instructions provide solid guidance.