Sunup

Sunup Knit Hat by BeckyinVT

What Is Being Made

Sunup is an intermediate-level knit hat designed by Becky Herrick of Sugar Tree Designs. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a classic fitted hat available in five sizes ranging from 15.25 inches to 24 inches in circumference (39 to 61 cm). The design features a distinctive three-dimensional cable that travels up one side of the hat, making it both a functional accessory and a showcase for decorative stitch work.

Sizing and Fit

The Sunup hat is offered in the following circumference options:

• Size 1: 15.25 inches (39 cm)
• Size 2: 17.5 inches (44.5 cm)
• Size 3: 19.75 inches (50 cm)
• Size 4: 21.75 inches (55.5 cm)
• Size 5: 24 inches (61 cm)

The pattern recommends 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of negative ease for an optimal fit.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate knit hat employs several fundamental knitting techniques that make it accessible to experienced beginners while remaining engaging for advanced knitters. The construction begins with a twisted rib brim, which creates a textured, elastic edge that sits comfortably on the head. The body of the hat is worked primarily in stockinette stitch, a smooth, classic fabric that provides an ideal background for the featured cable work.

The signature design element is a three-dimensional cable that runs vertically up one side of the hat. This cable adds visual interest and texture while demonstrating cable knitting techniques. The crown of the hat features a gathered decrease that tapers the fabric smoothly to close the top.

The hat is constructed in the round, a common method for seamless hat knitting that eliminates the need for seaming. This technique requires working with either double-pointed needles (dpns) or circular needles, depending on knitter preference.

Yarn and Materials

The recommended yarn for this project is Dirty Water Dyeworks Edna, a premium blend consisting of 85% Polworth wool and 15% silk. This fiber combination provides warmth, durability, and a subtle sheen. One skein of Edna contains 380 yards and weighs 130 grams.

Yardage requirements vary by size:

• Size 1: 103 yards
• Size 2: 135 yards
• Size 3: 152 yards
• Size 4: 181 yards
• Size 5: 200 yards

The pattern calls for US 6 (4mm) needles or the size necessary to achieve the specified gauge. Knitters will need double-pointed needles or circular needles suitable for working in the round, 12 stitch markers (including one unique marker to denote the end of round), a cable needle for managing the cable stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge

The specified gauge for this pattern is 22 stitches and 33 rows per 4-inch (10 cm) square when worked in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper hat size and fit.

Pattern Overview

The Sunup hat demonstrates straightforward hat construction principles while incorporating decorative cable work. The twisted rib brim provides structure and elasticity, the stockinette body creates a smooth canvas for the cable detail, and the gathered crown completes the hat with a professional finish. This combination of simple construction and dimensional stitch detail makes Sunup an excellent intermediate project for knitters seeking to practice cable techniques within a wearable, practical garment.