A modern and textured two-tone beanie designed for standard-gauge knitting machines.
Worked primarily in 1×1 rib and enhanced with striking hand-manipulated cables, this project is ideal for intermediate machine knitters eager to explore plating, manual stitch transfers, and structured crown shaping.

The Heather Beanie uses the plating technique to achieve soft color blending, while cable panels add tactile interest and sculptural charm. The design is adjustable in both height and width, with formulas provided for customizing fit based on your gauge and yarn.

Size
One size (adjustable):
To fit head circumference 54–57 cm / 21.25–22.5 in
Finished flat width: ~20 cm
Finished height: ~24 cm

Materials
- Standard gauge double-bed knitting machine (e.g., Brother KH-890/KR-850)

• Main yarn: two colors of fine merino/cashmere blend (e.g., Biagioli Modesto Cash30 2/15) Approx. 375–425 m/100g combined

• Waste yarn for cast-on

Tools: transfer tools, cast-on comb, weights, tapestry needle, thin hand-knitting needles

Gauge
1×1 Rib: 34 sts × 50 rows = 10 cm

“Heather” pattern: 26 sts × 60 rows = 7.5 × 15 cm

Techniques Used
1×1 rib on standard bed

Manual cabling with transfer tools

Plating (optional but recommended)

Mattress stitch seaming

Machine-knit crown shaping

Tutorials Included
Swatching & plating

Crown shaping

Alternative pattern variation

Provisional cast-on for clean edge

Notes
Includes tips for adjusting ribbing and pattern height, customizing fit, and improving visibility when working with dark yarns. Perfect for knitters wanting a refined result with opportunities for customization and experimentation.