Wild Leaves Hat

Wild Leaves Hat by Hanna Maciejewska

What is Being Made

The Wild Leaves Hat is a versatile knitted beanie designed by independent designer Hanna Maciejewska. This intermediate-level knitting project features a fun construction with twisted ribbing details, lace elements, and interesting crown shaping. The pattern offers two style options: a fitted beanie style and a slouchy style variation. Two sizes are available—S/M with a finished head circumference of 19 inches (47.5 cm) and L with a finished head circumference of 24 inches (61 cm)—making this hat suitable for a range of wearers.

Techniques and Stitches Used

This knitting pattern employs several key techniques that make it an engaging intermediate project. The hat incorporates twisted ribbing at the base, which provides structure and a refined finish. Lace elements are worked throughout the body of the hat, adding visual interest and a delicate texture. The pattern features interesting crown shaping that tapers the hat gracefully toward the top. Knitters will work in the round using circular needles or double-pointed needles, and the pattern includes a stitch chart for the lace and shaping sections. Stockinette stitch forms the foundation fabric, knitted at a gauge of 21 stitches and 30 rounds per 4 inches (10 cm) after blocking.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Wild Leaves Hat is designed to be knitted with DK weight yarn. The pattern calls for approximately 160 yards (146 meters) for the S/M beanie size and 180 yards (160 meters) for the L beanie size. For the slouchy style variation, an additional 30 yards (27 meters) should be added to these yardage amounts. The recommended yarn is Zagroda, a blend of 75% wool and 25% nylon, available in 100g skeins with 284 yards (260 meters) per skein. This fiber content provides durability and warmth while the nylon adds resilience to the finished hat.

Tools and Notions

• US 2½ [3.0 mm] circular needles in 16-inch (40 cm) length, or double-pointed needles (DPNs) of the same size
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Stitch marker for tracking rounds

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 30 rounds per 4 inches (10 cm) measured in Stockinette stitch after blocking. The designer notes that she knits loosely, so knitters may need to adjust needle size or yarn weight to achieve the correct gauge. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished hat meets the intended measurements.