Knitch Magazine

Designed by Barbara Rottman

Brief Description

This cap is sized to fit a preemie and will stretch to fit many weights. Use remainder sock yarn; it’s washable and warm.

Materials

• Yarn: 15 grams Heart & Sole sock yarn (approximately)
• Needles: Set of 4 double point needles, size 1 (or size needed to obtain gauge)
• Notions: Needle to weave in ends; stitch marker to mark end or round

Gauge

14 stitches/inch in 2 x 2 ribbing. Gauge is important, but not vital for this project, but you should obtain a neat, elastic ribbing. Hat is sized to fit a premature infant weighing under 5 pounds.

Level of Difficulty

Knitters should know how to cast on, knit using double pointed needles, knit, purl, and decrease.

Finished Size

Un-stretched, hat measures 6” in diameter and 4” from cast on edge to beginning of crown shaping.

Pattern Notes

Hat is knit entirely in 2 x 2 ribbing of Knit 2, Purl 2

Abbreviations

PM - Place Marker

K2tog - Knit two together as 1 stitch (creates a right leaning slant)

K - Knit

P - Purl

dp - double point

Instructions

General Instructions

Cast on 80 stitches. Divide evenly on double point needles. Join, being careful not to twist stitches. Place marker to note beginning of round.

Establish pattern of *k2,p2; repeat from *.

Knit until hat measures 4” from cast on edge.

Decrease for crown:

First decrease round: *K8, K2tog; repeat from * (72 stitches)
Second (and all alternate) rounds: *k2,p2; repeat from *
Third decrease round: *K7, k2tog; repeat from * (64 stitches)

Continue to decrease in this manner, with 1 fewer stitch between decrease points until there are 16 stitches. K2tog around on the next 2 rounds (4 stitches remain).

Topknot options:

Option 1: Cut yarn leaving 18” tail. Weave tail through remaining stitches and fasten off.

Option 2: Complete as for option 1. Make a small pompom and attach to top.

Option 3: Arrange the 4 remaining stitches onto a single dp needle. Knit 4-stitch I-cord until it measures about 1 ¾”. Finish off I-cord. Tie cord in loose knot.

Finishing
Weave in any ends.
Launder using mild soap (no detergent) or wool wash.
Fold up brim
Donate to your local hospital, guild, etc.

For personal use only. This pattern may not be reproduced for sale or to conduct classes. Items made from this pattern may not be used for commercial purposes. © Barbara Rottman and used with permission.