I enjoyed playing with the juxtaposition of light and dark in this hat which is shot through with color using a little-known technique called vertical stranding. It’s easier — and more fun — than you might think!

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Skills/Techniques: Vertical stranding (explained), Italian Tubular Cast-On (optional; video provided)

Yarn: Morehouse Farm Merino Glenleigh Worsted 100% Merino, 140 yards/ 128 m / per 2 oz skein; one skein each in colors 2207 and 2201, or approximately 100 yards of smooth, worsted weight yarn for MC and approximately 30 yards /37 m for CC.

Needles: #6 US (4 mm) 16”/40 cm circular needles, or size to obtain gauge
#6 US (4 mm) dpns, or size to obtain gauge
#5 US (3.75 mm) 16”/40 cm circular needles, or one size smaller than size to obtain gauge

Notions: tapestry needle, scissors, stitch marker

Gauge: 17.5 stitches and 24 rows per 4”/10 cm in stockinette stitch, after blocking

Three Sizes: Adult S, M, L: 18 (20, 22)“ / 46 (51, 56) cm circumference. Should be worn with 1-2” / 2.5-5 cm negative ease.