Caramel Brulee

Caramel Brulee Knit Hat by Alicia Plummer

What Is Being Made

The Caramel Brulee is a cozy knit hat designed by independent designer Alicia Plummer. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a finished hat with two size options: a smaller size measuring 19 inches (48 cm) in circumference, and a larger size measuring 22 inches (56 cm) in circumference. Both sizes have a total depth of 8 inches (21 cm). The hat is designed to be finished with a large fluffy pom-pom on top, making it an ideal project for knitters seeking a fun, stress-free accessory.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs several key techniques to create the finished hat. The pattern uses both circular needles and double-pointed needles (DPNs) throughout construction. The hat features crown decreases that create distinctive points, which are smoothed out through thorough blocking and fabric blooming. The construction method involves casting on stitches using the smaller needles and working the hat in the round, a common technique for creating seamless, tubular garments like hats.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used in the Caramel Brulee hat is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a defined right side and textured reverse side. Stockinette stitch is achieved by knitting all stitches on right-side rounds and purling all stitches on wrong-side rounds when working in the round. The pattern includes crown decreases near the top of the hat to shape the crown and create the tapered finish that accommodates the pom-pom attachment.

Yarn and Needles

This pattern calls for worsted weight yarn, specifically The Uncommon Thread Everyday Worsted. The total yardage requirement is 250 yards for the smaller size and 270 yards for the larger size, making this an efficient project that uses relatively modest yardage. Two needle sizes are required: US size 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles or DPNs for the ribbed cuff or initial cast-on, and US size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles or DPNs for the main body of the hat. The gauge for this pattern is 20 stitches and 24 rows over a 4-inch (10 cm) square in stockinette stitch.

Additional Materials and Tools

• One place marker for tracking stitch rounds
• Darning needle for weaving in yarn ends
• One large fluffy pom-pom for the crown finish

Pattern Notes

The designer emphasizes the importance of thorough blocking to smooth out the points created by the crown decreases and to bloom the fabric for optimal drape and appearance. This hat pattern is part of a collection created in collaboration with fellow designers Thea Coleman, Bristol Ivy, and Melissa Schaschwary, designed as fun, stress-free projects perfect for knitting with friends. The pattern encourages crafters to grab a friend, enjoy conversation, and cast on together.