Lau Hat

Lau Hat by Linda Skuja

What is Being Made

The Lau Hat is a crochet design created by Linda Skuja, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This hat is suitable for both babies aged 6 months to 1 year and adults, with adjustable sizing options. The baby size accommodates a head circumference of 17 3/4 inches (45 cm), while the adult size fits heads measuring 22 inches (56 cm). Hat length ranges from 5 1/2 inches (14 cm) for babies to 7 3/4 inches (20 cm) for adults.

Techniques and Stitches Used

This intermediate-level crochet pattern requires experience with post stitches and the ability to work in the round. The pattern employs ribbing worked as you go, which creates a structured, fitted band at the base of the hat. The ribbing measures 1 1/4 inches (3 cm) in height and is constructed using post stitches to achieve a textured, elastic quality that hugs the head comfortably.

Post stitches—including post single crochet, post half double crochet, and post double crochet variations—are worked around the post of previous stitches rather than into the top loops. This technique creates vertical texture and adds stretch to the finished garment, making it ideal for hat construction where a snug fit is desired.

Materials and Tools

The Lau Hat is designed to be worked with two yarns held together:

• Fingering-weight yarn (CYC #1, Super Fine weight): Wool or wool blend yarn forms the primary component
• Lace-weight mohair or similar yarn: Held together with the fingering-weight yarn to create a blended texture and appearance

The pattern specifies Martin's Lab yarns in the Lightwood colorway: "Tibetan Singles" (480 meters/524.9 yards per 120-gram skein) and "Silky Mohair" (420 meters/459.3 yards per skein). Working two contrasting yarn weights together creates visual interest while maintaining workability.

Crochet hooks required: An E/3.5mm hook is used for the ribbing section, while an F/3.75mm hook is used for the main hat body. Hook sizes may be adjusted to achieve the correct gauge and desired finished hat size.

Gauge and Sizing

Proper gauge is essential for this pattern. The specified gauge is 23 stitches and 46 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) and 8 inches (20 cm) respectively, measured in post stitches using the E/3.5mm hook. The gauge swatch should be worked in the post stitch ribbing pattern to ensure accurate sizing, as the ribbing directly impacts the fit of the finished hat. Adjusting hook size allows crafters to customize the final dimensions to suit different head sizes.