So Braided

So Braided Hat by Rachy Knits

What is Being Made

The So Braided Hat is a textured, warm knit hat designed by Rachel Kleynhans of Rachy Knits. This pattern offers a contemporary take on the Braided River Hat style, featuring a distinctive double brim and a repeating braided pattern that runs continuously around the entire crown. The hat is stretchy and designed to fit a range of head sizes, making it versatile for different wearers. It can be finished with an optional pompom for added visual interest and warmth.

Available Sizes

The So Braided Hat pattern is available in three sizes to accommodate different age groups and head circumferences:

• Baby size
• Child size
• Adult size

Yarn Requirements

This pattern is designed to be knit in DK weight yarn, specifically 100% Merino for optimal drape, warmth, and comfort. The yardage requirements vary by size:

• Adult size: Approximately 200 meters
• Child size: Approximately 160 meters
• Baby size: Approximately 100 meters

Recommended yarn options include Cascade Superwash 220 DK Merino, Silver Lining DK from Skeinz NZ, or Naturally Yarns Baby Natural DK for the smallest size.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The So Braided Hat employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques to create its signature textured appearance. The pattern uses braiding techniques as the primary design element, which creates visual depth and dimension throughout the hat. This is achieved through the strategic use of a cable needle, which allows stitches to be crossed over one another to form the braided effect.

The pattern utilizes knitting in the round, a technique worked on circular needles that creates seamless, tubular fabric. The ssk (slip, slip, knit) decrease is employed, which is a left-leaning decrease commonly used in shaping and pattern work. Additional standard abbreviations referenced include pm (place marker) and BOR (beginning of round), which are essential for tracking pattern repeats and round progression in circular knitting.

Materials and Tools Required

To complete the So Braided Hat, knitters will need the following materials and equipment:

• 4mm circular needles for knitting in the round during the main pattern sections
• 4.5mm circular needles for knitting in the round during specific sections
• Cable needle for creating the braided stitch patterns
• DK weight merino yarn in the appropriate yardage for the chosen size
• Darning needle for weaving in ends
• Scissors
• Tape measure for checking gauge and fit
• Pompom (optional finishing embellishment)

Difficulty Level

The So Braided Hat is rated as an intermediate difficulty pattern. This classification reflects the use of cable techniques and braiding, which require familiarity with more advanced stitch manipulation beyond basic knit and purl stitches. Knitters should be comfortable working in the round on circular needles and have experience with cable needles before attempting this pattern.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches per 10 centimeters when worked in DK weight yarn on the appropriate needle size. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly given the hat's design to stretch and accommodate a range of head sizes.