The Equilibrium Beanie is a fresh, modern hat built from simple equilateral triangles that come together in a really satisfying way. This is a modular knit, where each triangle is knit and joined as you go, creating a bold, graphic strip that becomes the base of the hat. From there, you pick up stitches along the edges and work upward, so the hat grows out of that geometric foundation—an unexpected construction that’s as fun to knit as it is to wear.

Inside each triangle, a 2x2 Fair Isle pattern adds texture and interest, with the stripes meeting at clean, angled lines. You can go bold with high-contrast colors, keep things soft and subtle, or introduce an unexpected pop - the color choices really help define the look of the finished piece.

Use your ribber to knit a 2x2 ribbed brim, or opt for the ribberless mock ribbed trim.

While knitting this beanie, you’ll have the opportunity to practice some different machine knitting techniques including:

• Modular knitting
• Picking up and knitting off of selvage edges as well as live stitches
• Invisibly increasing multiple times within a row
• Knitted-on, foldover trims (at neckline and cuffs)
• Decreasing in fairisle pattern
• Short row shaping (to knit the crown)
• Seam-as-you-knit technique
• Attaching ribbed hems
• Color planning and/or liberation

The Beanie is knit in 3 sections. The modular triangle band is knitted first (8 triangles in total), followed by the brim (options included for 2x2 or mock rib). The solid crown is last - knit sideways and formed through a series of short row wedges, attached to the top of the triangle band using a seam-as-you-knit technique. For finishing techniques include Kitchener and mattress stitch.

Instructions are written for one size, designed to fit an average adult-sized head with a 22” (56cm) circumference. The finished hat has about 1” (2.5cm) of negative ease.

If using the recommended yarn (Cascade 220 Fingering), you will require the following quantities:

MC (used for crown and ribbing): 20 grams
CC for Triangles: 32 grams

Each triangle uses 4g of yarn (total) between 2 colors

Play with high contrast or subtle color shifts, allowing color to become part of the fabric architecture.

This pattern has been written for use on a standard gauge knitting machine. It is a 17 page PDF with detailed instructions, including technique explanations, some step-by-step photo tutorials, and charting guide you through the short row shaping of the crown.

Pattern Rating: Advanced Beginner/Intermediate

I can’t wait to see what you knit! Use #equilibriumbeanie on Instagram and tag me @rebeccayaker