The Herring Hat

The Herring Hat is a textured, embossed design worked in the round from the brim to the crown. It features six repeating “Fish” motifs created by pairing knit stitches in a Main Color (MC) with purl stitches in a Contrast Color (CC). The design is finished with individually worked tail fins that transition from the crown.

Difficulty: Intermediate

Skills Required:
Stranded colorwork in the round
Working in the round (circular needles or DPNs)
Increases and Decreases: CDI, M1R, M1L, SSK, k2tog, CDD Double knitting (for the tail fins)

Sizing & Fit:
This updated pattern now includes six sizes:
Option A (DK Weight): Fits Toddler through Adult Large (Head circumferences from 18.5” to 23.75” / 47 to 60 cm).
Option B (Sport/Fingering Weight): Fits Baby through Adult Medium/Large (Head circumferences from 15.75” to 21.25” / 40 to 54 cm).
Note: Colorwork fabric has limited stretch. If between sizes, choose the larger size for a comfortable fit.

Yarn & Gauge Options:Option A: DK weight yarn at a gauge of 24 sts and 28 rnds per 4” (10 cm).
Option B: Sport or Heavy Fingering weight yarn at a gauge of 28 sts and 34 rnds per 4” (10 cm).

Materials Needed:Needles: 3.25 mm to 4.0 mm circulars and DPNs, depending on your chosen weight and gauge.

Notions: 6 stitch markers (including 1 for BOR), tapestry needle, waste yarn, measuring tape, and scissors. Optional locking markers for earflaps.