Wheels

Wheels Hat by Andrea Rangel

What Is Being Made

Wheels is a top-down knitted hat designed by Andrea Rangel. This intermediate-level pattern creates a fitted hat with a distinctive textured design, available in two sizes to fit head circumferences of 19-21 inches (48-53.5cm) for size S and 21.25-23.25 inches (54-59cm) for size L. The finished brim circumference measures 17.75 inches (45cm) for size S and 20 inches (51cm) for size L when unstretched.

Pattern Construction Method

The hat is worked top-down in the round, a popular construction technique that allows knitters to try on the hat as it progresses and easily adjust the length. The pattern is designed with negative ease, meaning the brim is intentionally smaller than the wearer's head circumference—knitters should choose a size 1.25 to 3.25 inches (3-8cm) smaller than their desired head circumference. This negative ease creates a snug, secure fit that prevents the hat from slipping.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch used throughout much of the hat, worked with the larger needle size
• 1x1 Twisted Rib: Used for the brim, creating an elastic, textured edge that hugs the head comfortably
• Cluster Stitch: A decorative technique involving slipping 3 stitches with yarn in back, passing yarn to front, and slipping the same 3 stitches again, creating the distinctive "wheels" texture that gives the hat its name
• In-the-round knitting: Uses double-pointed needles and circular needles to create seamless fabric

Gauge Information

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this pattern. Knitters should work to 18 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10cm) in stockinette stitch using the larger needle, and 19 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches (10cm) in 1x1 twisted rib using the smaller needle. The pattern notes that needle sizes are recommendations only, and knitters should always select the needle size necessary to obtain the correct gauge for proper fit.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This hat is designed for DK weight yarn, requiring 160 yards (146m) for size S or 180 yards (165m) for size L. The sample shown was knitted in Spincycle Devilish Grin, a luxury blend of 80% Merino Wool and 20% Silk, which provides softness, breathability, and subtle sheen. This yarn comes in 120-yard (110m) skeins of 54 grams, meaning knitters will need 2 skeins to complete the project.

Needles and Tools

• Set of US #5 (3.75mm) double-pointed needles (dpns) for working the crown in the round
• 16-inch US #5 (3.75mm) circular needle for the main body of the hat
• 16-inch US #4 (3.5mm) circular needle for the ribbed brim
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and size increases

Difficulty Level

Wheels is rated as an intermediate pattern, suitable for knitters with some experience. While the basic stitches—stockinette and ribbing—are fundamental, the cluster stitch technique and the coordination required for top-down, in-the-round construction require intermediate skills. Knitters comfortable with circular needles, stitch markers, and following pattern instructions will find this project manageable and rewarding.