How to Knit an Adult-Sized Hat

Knit a cozy and warm custom-fitting hat.

If you know the basics of how to knit, you can make a custom-sized adult hat. By knitting the hat from side-to-side rather than from top-to-bottom, the hat can be tailored to any sized head. The hat is knit in the garter stitch, which involves knitting every row, and is a stretchy stitch that needs no ribbing. This uncomplicated pattern is great for someone who is new to knitting, and the finished hat will keep your head cozy and dry in winter weather.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• 1 skein worsted weight smooth yarn
• Two size 8 knitting needles
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle

Instructions

1. Measure around the adult’s head at the widest spot with the tape measure. Subtract 1 inch from the measurement to allow for the hat’s snug fit.

2. Cast on 36 stitches with the yarn and the knitting needles.

3. Knit every row until the piece of work is as long as the measurement in step one. Cast off and cut the yarn, leaving a 24-inch tail.

4. Thread the yarn tail in the tapestry needle. Fold the hat in half lengthwise and sew a seam to connect the two short sides into a tube shape. Knot and cut the yarn.

5. Thread the tapestry needle with 12-inches of yarn. Sew 1/2-inch stitches around one side of the tube with the tapestry needle and yarn. Pull the thread to gather the stitches for the top of the hat. Knot and cut the yarn.

References

• “1,000 Fabulous Knit Hats”; Annie Modesitt; 2010
• Craft Yarn Council of America: Learn Knit Stitch