The Dawnland Hat is a relatively quick knit using less than 100 grams of bulky merino yarn. The suggested yarn is an ultra soft two-ply, sourced from certified humane and sustainably raised sheep, that works up into a warm, comfy, close-fitting cap that’s not too tight, but stays put during activity. Worked in the round from the bottom up, this is a pretty and simple basket-weave hat with a twist.

Thank you to my beautiful daughter, River, for modeling for me. The idea for this hat was inspired by her Mi’kmaq ancestors. These First Nation people of northeastern North America (including our home state of Maine) are renowned for their amazing traditional basket weaving. Part of The Wabanaki Confederacy, they are known as the “People of the Dawnland”.

Please know that you are free to use your finished object from this, and any of my other patterns, for pleasure or for profit.

Difficulty: Enthusiastic beginner - the pattern is simple, but the twisted stitches take some agility.

Size: Ladies - fits most tweens, teens and adult women. Approx. 21” (53cm) diameter brim, 8” (20cm) tall from cast on edge to top of crown.

Materials: Morning Bright Holistic Merino Bulky (109yds/100g).

Gauge: 14 stitches and 23 rows over 4” (10cm) in stockinette with larger needles, unblocked.

Needles: US size 10 (6mm) 16” (40cm) circular needles or dpns, US size 10.5 (6.5mm) 16” (40cm) circular needles or dpns. And US size 10.5 (6.5mm) dpns or circular cable long enough for magic looping for the crown.

Notions: stitch marker, tapestry needle