How to Knit a Cloche

Cloche hats are bell-shaped women's hats fitted at the crown of the head. The cloche hat was popular during the early 20th century. Cloche hats continue to have appeal for their vintage style and flattering fit. Made in a worsted weight yarn with a tight stitch to make the brim hold its shape, the cloche hat makes a warm and stylish addition to your cool weather wardrobe.

Things You'll Need

• 150 yards of worsted weight yarn
• 16-inch circular needle, size 7
• Size 7 double point needles
• Stitch marker
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle

Instructions

1. Cast on 192 stitches on the circular needle. Place a marker and join to begin working in the round.

2. Knit all stitches on row one and all other odd numbered rounds.

3. Slip three stitches then knit three stitches and repeat to the end of the round for round two.
   Knit one stitch. Slip three stitches then knit three stitches and repeat to the last five stitches. Slip three stitches then knit two stitches. This completes row four.

4. Knit two stitches. Slip three stitches then knit three stitches and repeat to the last four stitches. Slip three stitches then knit one stitch. This completes row six.
   Knit three stitches then slip three stitches and repeat to the end of the round for round eight.

5. Slip one stitch. Knit three stitches then slip three stitches and repeat to the last five stitches. Knit three stitches then slip two stitches. This completes round 10.
   Slip two stitches. Knit three stitches then slip three stitches and repeat to the last four stitches. Knit three stitches then slip one stitch. This completes round 12.

6. Work the last 12 rounds until the brim measures about three inches, ending after round 12.

7. Knit two stitches together and repeat to the end of the round. There are now 96 stitches on the needle.
   Continue working in pattern, starting on row two until the hat measures six inches or the desired length to the start of the crown of the head. End after working round 12.

8. Knit four stitches then knit two stitches together and repeat to the end of the round.
   Slip three stitches then knit two stitches and repeat to the end of the round.
   Knit three stitches then knit two stitches together and repeat to the end of the round.
   Knit one stitch. Slip three stitches then knit one stitch and repeat to the last three stitches. Slip three stitches.

9. Slip the stitches to the double point needles, dividing evenly over three needles.

10. Knit two stitches then knit two stitches together and repeat to the end of the round.
    Knit one round.
    Knit one stitch then knit two stitches together and repeat to the end of the round.
    Knit one round.
    Knit two stitches together and repeat to the end of the round.

11. Cut the yarn leaving a 10-inch tail. Thread the tail end onto the tapestry needle and pull through the remaining stitches. Weave in the end on the wrong side of the hat.