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When it comes to handmade gifts, few things carry the warmth and personal touch like a knitted hat. The Nicolas Hat, a cherished creation I originally made for my mom for Christmas in 2018, is one such gift. This hat, a companion piece to the Nicolas Bonnet, holds a special place in my heart and has become a beloved project for many knitters. Crafted with Cascade 220 superwash yarn, the Nicolas Hat features intricate cables around the face, complemented by 1×1 ribbing throughout the rest of the hat. In this blog post, I’ll take you through the inspiration, the process, and the joy of knitting the Nicolas Hat.

The Inspiration Behind the Nicolas Hat

The Nicolas Hat was born out of a desire to create something both functional and beautiful. As a knitter, I am always on the lookout for projects that challenge my skills and allow me to explore new techniques. The idea for the Nicolas Hat came to me as I was working on the Nicolas Bonnet, a cozy bonnet with a unique cable pattern. I wanted to create a companion piece that would complement the bonnet and provide extra warmth and style.

When I think back to Christmas 2018, I remember wanting to give my mom something special, something that would keep her warm during the cold winter months. The Nicolas Hat was the perfect choice. Its cozy design and beautiful cables made it a gift that she could cherish and wear with pride. The thought of my mom wearing something I had made with my own hands filled me with a sense of accomplishment and love.

Choosing the Right Yarn

One of the key elements in creating the Nicolas Hat was selecting the right yarn. I chose Cascade 220 superwash yarn for its softness, durability, and ease of care. This yarn is a favorite among knitters for its versatility and wide range of colors. For the Nicolas Hat, I opted for a classic, neutral color that would go with any outfit and suit my mom’s taste.

Cascade 220 superwash yarn is made from 100% superwash wool, making it both warm and machine washable. This was an important consideration for me, as I wanted the hat to be easy for my mom to care for without worrying about it losing its shape or softness. The yarn’s smooth texture also allowed the cable pattern to stand out beautifully, adding to the overall elegance of the hat. You can purchase the yarn for this project here.

The Design: Cables and Ribbing

The design of the Nicolas Hat is what makes it truly unique. The hat features intricate cables around the face, which add a touch of sophistication and visual interest. Cables can be intimidating for some knitters, but they are a rewarding technique that can elevate any project. For the Nicolas Hat, the cables frame the face beautifully, drawing attention to the wearer’s features and adding a cozy touch.

The rest of the hat is worked in 1×1 ribbing, which provides a snug fit and ensures that the hat stays in place. Ribbing is a versatile stitch pattern that adds elasticity and texture to the hat. The combination of cables and ribbing creates a balanced design that is both stylish and functional.

The Knitting Process

Knitting the Nicolas Hat was a labor of love. The process began with selecting the perfect needles and gathering all the necessary materials. I used circular needles to knit the hat in the round, which eliminated the need for seams and created a smooth, professional finish.

The first step was to cast on the required number of stitches and join them in the round, being careful not to twist the stitches. I then worked a few rounds of ribbing to create a stretchy brim that would keep the hat securely in place. Once the brim was complete, it was time to start the cable pattern.

The cable pattern around the face required careful attention and precise execution. I used a cable needle to cross stitches over one another, creating the beautiful twisted design that is characteristic of cables. The pattern was both challenging and enjoyable, allowing me to practice my cabling skills and create a stunning effect.

After completing the cable section, I continued working in 1×1 ribbing until the hat reached the desired length. The ribbing provided a nice contrast to the cables and added a cozy texture to the hat. Finally, I shaped the crown of the hat by decreasing stitches evenly until only a few remained. I then fastened off the stitches and wove in the ends, completing the hat.

The Joy of Giving

One of the most rewarding aspects of knitting the Nicolas Hat was the joy of giving it to my mom. Handmade gifts carry a special meaning, as they are created with love and care. When my mom opened her present on Christmas morning, her face lit up with happiness. She immediately put on the hat and admired the intricate cables and soft texture.

Seeing my mom wear the Nicolas Hat filled me with a sense of pride and satisfaction. It was a tangible reminder of the time and effort I had put into creating something special for her. The hat not only kept her warm but also served as a symbol of our bond and the love we share.

Knitting the Nicolas Hat for Yourself

If you’re looking for a knitting project that combines beauty, functionality, and a touch of challenge, the Nicolas Hat is a perfect choice. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, this hat is sure to become a cherished accessory. The combination of cables and ribbing creates a timeless design that can be worn year after year.

When knitting the Nicolas Hat, take your time and enjoy the process. Pay attention to the details, especially when working the cable pattern. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and try new techniques. The end result will be a beautiful, cozy hat that you can be proud of.

Conclusion

The Nicolas Hat is more than just a knitting project; it’s a labor of love, a work of art, and a gift from the heart. Its intricate cables and cozy ribbing make it a standout piece that can be treasured for years to come. Whether you’re knitting it for yourself or for someone special, the Nicolas Hat is a testament to the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something beautiful with your own hands. So, grab your needles and yarn, and start knitting your own Nicolas Hat today. You’ll be glad you did.

Materials and Info

Yarn – 1skein Cascade 220 (100g
220yd)

Gauge – 20x28sts per 4x4in or 10x10cm

Needles – 7 (4.5mm) circular and/or dpn

Other –yarn needle, cable needle, optional – fur pompom

Sizes – (newborn, baby), (toddler, child), (small adult, large adult)

Head Measurement – (30-35, 35-40), (40-45, 45-50), (50-55, 55-60)cms or (12-14, 14-16), (16-18, 18-20), (20-22, 22-24)ins

ABBREVIATIONS
k – knit
P – purl
sl – slip stitch
st – stitch
yo – yarn over
k2tog – knit the next 2 sts together
t2f – slide next st onto cable needle, hold in front, p next st, k st from cable needle
t2b – slide next st onto cable needle, hold in back, k next st, p st from cable needle
c5f – slide next 2 sts onto cable needle, hold in front, k next 3 sts, k2 sts from cable needle

Nicolas Hat Pattern

NEWBORN
Cast on 72 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 1ins (2.5cms).
Round 1 – [t2f, k1, p1, k1, t2b, p1] repeat across
Round 2 – [p1, k5, p2] repeat across
Round 3 – [p1, c5f, p2] repeat across
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – Repeat round 2
Round 6 – Repeat round 2
Round 7 – Repeat round 3
Round 8 – [p1, k2, p1, k2, p2] Repeat across
Round 9 – [t2b, k1, p1, k1, t2f, p1] repeat across
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing until your work measures appx 4ins (10cms).
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [ssk, k1, p1] around (54sts)
Round 2 – [k2, p1] around
Round 3 – [ssk, p1] around (36sts)
Round 4 – [k1,p1] around
Round 5 – [k2tog] around (18sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (9sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.

BABY
Cast on 80 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 1ins (2.5cms).
Round 1 – [t2f, k1, p1, k1, t2b, p1] repeat across
Round 2 – [p1, k5, p2] repeat across
Round 3 – [p1, c5f, p2] repeat across
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – Repeat round 2
Round 6 – Repeat round 2
Round 7 – Repeat round 3
Round 8 – [p1, k2, p1, k2, p2] Repeat across
Round 9 – [t2b, k1, p1, k1, t2f, p1] repeat across
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing until your work measures appx 4.5ins (11cms).
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [ssk, k1, p1] around (60sts)
Round 2 – [k2, p1] around
Round 3 – [ssk, p1] around (40sts)
Round 4 – [k1,p1] around
Round 5 – [k2tog] around (20sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (10sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (5sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.

TODDLER
Cast on 88 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 1ins (2.5cms).
Round 1 – [t2f, k1, p1, k1, t2b, p1] repeat across
Round 2 – [p1, k5, p2] repeat across
Round 3 – [p1, c5f, p2] repeat across
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – Repeat round 2
Round 6 – Repeat round 2
Round 7 – Repeat round 3
Round 8 – [p1, k2, p1, k2, p2] Repeat across
Round 9 – [t2b, k1, p1, k1, t2f, p1] repeat across
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing until your work measures appx 5.5ins (14.5cms).
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [ssk, k1, p1] around (66sts)
Round 2 – [k2, p1] around
Round 3 – [ssk, p1] around (44sts)
Round 4 – [k1,p1] around
Round 5 – [k2tog] around (22sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (11sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around to last st, k1 (6sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.

CHILD
Cast on 96 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 1.25ins (3cms).
Round 1 – [t2f, k1, p1, k1, t2b, p1] repeat across
Round 2 – [p1, k5, p2] repeat across
Round 3 – [p1, c5f, p2] repeat across
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – Repeat round 2
Round 6 – Repeat round 2
Round 7 – Repeat round 3
Round 8 – [p1, k2, p1, k2, p2] Repeat across
Round 9 – [t2b, k1, p1, k1, t2f, p1] repeat across
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing until your work measures appx 6.5ins (16cms).
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [ssk, k1, p1] around (72sts)
Round 2 – [k2, p1] around
Round 3 – [ssk, p1] around (48sts)
Round 4 – [k1,p1] around
Round 5 – [k2tog] around (24sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (12sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (6sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.

SMALL ADULT
Cast on 112 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 1.25ins (3cms).
Round 1 – [t2f, k1, p1, k1, t2b, p1] repeat across
Round 2 – [p1, k5, p2] repeat across
Round 3 – [p1, c5f, p2] repeat across
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – Repeat round 2
Round 6 – Repeat round 2
Round 7 – Repeat round 3
Round 8 – [p1, k2, p1, k2, p2] Repeat across
Round 9 – [t2b, k1, p1, k1, t2f, p1] repeat across
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing until your work measures appx 7.5ins (18.5cms).
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [ssk, k1, p1] around (84sts)
Round 2 – [k2, p1] around
Round 3 – [ssk, p1] around (56sts)
Round 4 – [k1,p1] around
Round 5 – [k2tog] around (28sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (14sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around 7sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.

LARGE ADULT
Cast on 120 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 1.25ins (3cms).
Round 1 – [t2f, k1, p1, k1, t2b, p1] repeat across
Round 2 – [p1, k5, p2] repeat across
Round 3 – [p1, c5f, p2] repeat across
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – Repeat round 2
Round 6 – Repeat round 2
Round 7 – Repeat round 3
Round 8 – [p1, k2, p1, k2, p2] Repeat across
Round 9 – [t2b, k1, p1, k1, t2f, p1] repeat across
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing until your work measures appx 8.5ins (21cms).
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [ssk, k1, p1] around (90sts)
Round 2 – [k2, p1] around
Round 3 – [ssk, p1] around (60sts)
Round 4 – [k1,p1] around
Round 5 – [k2tog] around (30sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog] around (15sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around to last st, k1(8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.

Nicolas Hat PDF