Khareef

Khareef Hat by Andrea Rangel

What is Being Made

The Khareef is a knitted hat designed by independent designer Andrea Rangel. This seamless, top-down construction hat is available in three sizes (S, M, L) with finished head circumferences ranging from 19.5 to 23 inches. The design is intended to be worn with negative ease, meaning knitters should select a size approximately 0.5 to 1 inch smaller than their actual head circumference for an optimal fit.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Khareef employs several key knitting techniques suited to intermediate-level crafters. The hat is worked seamlessly in the round from the top down, a popular method that eliminates the need for seaming. Knitters can choose their preferred circular knitting method, including traditional 16-inch circular needles, two circular needles, or the magic loop method using a long circular needle. This flexibility allows crafters to select the technique most comfortable for them.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Khareef is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The pattern is worked at a gauge of 9 stitches and 14 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. This gauge measurement is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements and ensuring proper fit.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Khareef is designed for super bulky weight yarn, making it an excellent quick-knit project. Total yardage requirements are 85 to 105 yards depending on size, divided between a main color (MC) and a contrasting color (CC). Specifically, knitters need 60 to 70 yards of main color yarn and 25 to 35 yards of contrasting color yarn. The pattern sample shown uses Brown Sheep Burly Spun, a 100% wool yarn available in 226-gram skeins with 132 yards per skein. The main color used is BS115 Oatmeal and the contrasting color is BS191 Kiwi, requiring only one skein of each.

Needles and Tools

The Khareef pattern calls for two sizes of US circular needles to achieve proper shaping and gauge. Knitters begin with a 16-inch US #13 (9 mm) circular needle for the initial stitches, then transition to a 16-inch US #15 (10 mm) circular needle. For the main body and crown shaping, a set of US #15 (10 mm) double-pointed needles, two circulars, or a long circular needle for magic loop method is required, depending on the knitter's preferred technique. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends upon completion.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience in circular knitting and basic shaping techniques. The straightforward stockinette stitch construction combined with top-down seamless methodology makes this an accessible project for those ready to move beyond beginner patterns.