For a dash of colour magic, I don’t think you can go wrong with some simple stranded stitches. Using two skeins of gorgeously squishy Malabrigo Rios (or other worsted weight yarn) in contrasting colours, this unisex hat with optional pompom knits up quickly and makes a perfect gift for someone special - if you can bear to part with it, that is! Knit in the round from the bottom up, and using less than 100 g of yarn, Elements makes a perfect stash buster.

The stranded pattern is simple enough for even stranding novices to execute. Floats are short enough to not need catching on the reverse side of your hat.

Can’t decide which colour to use as your main colour and which for your contrast? Two skeins of Malabrigo Rios is enough to knit two hats, so you can swap your colours around and change up your look!

FINISHED SIZE AFTER BLOCKING:

M (L), to fit approximate head circumference 20-22 (22-24)”/50.75-55.75 (55.75-61) cm

Finished measurements: blocked circumference approx 19 (21)”/48.25 (53.25) cm, depth 8.25”/21 cm (excluding optional pompom)

GAUGE AFTER BLOCKING:

Approx 20 stitches and 20 rounds to 4” (10cm) in pattern.

SUGGESTED YARN:

Malabrigo Rios 100% Merino; 210 yds/100 g in contrasting colours
(sample shown in Fresco Y Seco (MC) and Paris Night (CC))

MC: Approx 100 (110) yds
CC: Approx 75 (85) yds

Plus extra yarn for pompom, if desired

MATERIALS:

4.5mm (US7) circular needle (24in/60cm) or DPNs
5mm (US8) circular needle (24in/60cm) or DPNs, or needle size necessary to achieve gauge
1 stitch marker
Tapestry needle