purlJam

# Classic Ribbed Beanie

A cozy, stretchy beanie worked in the round from brim to crown. The k2p2 ribbing provides excellent stretch and a snug, comfortable fit. Perfect for cold weather!

## Sizing
One size fits most adults
**Finished Circumference**: 20" (51 cm) unstretched, stretches to fit 21-23" (53-58 cm)
**Finished Length**: 9.5" (24 cm)

## Materials
- **Yarn**: Approximately 150-175 yards (137-160 m) worsted weight yarn
  - Sample shown uses Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Oxford Grey
- **Needles**: 
  - US 8 (5 mm) 16" circular needle
  - US 8 (5 mm) DPNs or longer circular for magic loop (for crown)
- **Notions**: 
  - Stitch marker
  - Tapestry needle
  - Optional: pompom maker or cardboard for pompom

## Gauge
18 sts × 24 rows = 4" (10 cm) in stockinette stitch in the round
Approximately 20 sts × 24 rows = 4" in k2p2 ribbing, relaxed (ribbing compresses naturally)

*Gauge is important for proper fit. Take time to check your gauge.*

## Pattern Notes
- Beanie is worked in the round from brim to crown
- Use a stretchy cast-on method such as long-tail or cable cast-on with a loose tension
- Switch to DPNs or magic loop when stitches no longer fit comfortably on circular needle
- All rounds are worked from the right side

## Abbreviations
- k: knit
- p: purl
- k2tog: knit 2 stitches together (right-leaning decrease)
- pm: place marker
- rnd(s): round(s)
- st(s): stitch(es)

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## PATTERN INSTRUCTIONS

### Brim
Using long-tail cast-on (or your preferred stretchy method), CO 88 sts. [Math check: 88 ÷ 4 = 22 repeats ✓]

Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist sts. PM to mark beginning of rnd.

**Rnds 1-15**: *K2, p2; repeat from * to end of rnd.

The brim should measure approximately 2.5" (6.5 cm) from cast-on edge.

### Body
**Rnds 16-48**: Continue in k2p2 ribbing as established (*k2, p2; repeat from * to end).

Body should measure approximately 5.5" (14 cm) from cast-on edge, or 8" (20 cm) total length. You may work more or fewer rounds here to adjust total length.

### Crown Shaping
*Switch to DPNs or magic loop when necessary.*

**Rnd 49**: *K2, p2tog; repeat from * to end. [88 sts → 66 sts] [Math check: 88 - 22 = 66 ✓]

**Rnd 50**: *K2, p1; repeat from * to end.

**Rnd 51**: *K2tog, p1; repeat from * to end. [66 sts → 44 sts] [Math check: 66 - 22 = 44 ✓]

**Rnd 52**: *K1, p1; repeat from * to end.

**Rnd 53**: *K2tog; repeat from * to end. [44 sts → 22 sts] [Math check: 44 ÷ 2 = 22 ✓]

**Rnd 54**: Knit all sts.

**Rnd 55**: *K2tog; repeat from * to end. [22 sts → 11 sts] [Math check: 22 ÷ 2 = 11 ✓]

**Rnd 56**: Knit all sts.

**Rnd 57**: K2tog, k2tog, k2tog, k2tog, k2tog, k1. [11 sts → 6 sts] [Math check: 11 - 5 = 6 ✓]

Break yarn, leaving an 8" tail. Thread tail through remaining 6 sts and pull tight to close top of hat.

## Finishing
Weave in all ends, using the cast-on tail to close any gap at the beginning of the round if necessary. Block lightly if desired by dampening and placing on a dinner plate or balloon to dry.

### Optional Pompom
Make a 3-4" pompom using pompom maker or cardboard circles. Attach securely to top of beanie.

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## Customization Ideas
- **Stripes**: Change colors every 4-8 rounds in the body section
- **Slouchy version**: Work an additional 2-3" in the body before beginning crown shaping
- **Brim options**: Work 3-4" of ribbing and fold up for a double-thick brim
- **Color work**: Add a simple Fair Isle band before crown shaping

## Care Instructions
Follow yarn label instructions. Most worsted weight yarns can be hand washed in cool water and laid flat to dry.

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*Pattern difficulty: Intermediate*
*Pattern tested and tech edited 2024*