purlJam

# Granny Stitch Hood

A cosy, textured hood worked in the classic granny stitch pattern. This simple design is perfect for beginners and creates a lovely drape with beautiful texture. The hood is worked flat in rows, then seamed at the back for a comfortable fit.

## Materials

**Yarn**: DK weight yarn, approximately 200-250 metres
- Sample shown uses a soft acrylic or wool blend DK yarn

**Hook**: 4.5mm (US 7)

**Notions**: 
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming
- Scissors
- Stitch markers (optional, helpful for keeping track of rows)

## Tension

16 stitches × 9 rows = 10cm (4") in granny stitch pattern with 4.5mm hook

**Important**: Take time to check your tension. If your fabric is too tight, go up a hook size. If too loose, go down a hook size.

## Finished Measurements

- Width at face opening: 30cm (12")
- Depth from face to back of head: 35cm (14")

## Abbreviations (UK Terms)

- ch = chain
- tr = treble crochet
- dc = double crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- sp = space
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side

## Special Stitches

**Granny Cluster**: (3 tr, ch 1, 3 tr) worked into same space – this creates the classic granny stitch group

## Pattern Notes

1. The hood is worked flat in rows from the face opening towards the back of the head.
2. Turning chain 3 counts as first treble throughout.
3. All granny clusters are worked into chain-1 spaces of the previous row (not into individual stitches).
4. Stitch count refers to the number of trebles in the row (not including turning chain).
5. Right side is facing you on odd-numbered rows.

## Instructions

### Main Hood Body

**Foundation**: Ch 48.

**Row 1 (RS)**: 3 tr in 4th ch from hook (skipped chains count as first cluster), *ch 1, skip 2 ch, 3 tr in next ch; repeat from * across to last 3 ch, ch 1, skip 2 ch, 1 tr in last ch. (45 tr + 1 tr at end)

**Row 2 (WS)**: Ch 3 (counts as first tr), turn, 3 tr in first ch-1 sp, *ch 1, 3 tr in next ch-1 sp; repeat from * across to last sp, ch 1, 1 tr in top of turning ch. (45 tr + 1 tr at end)

**Row 3**: Ch 3 (counts as first tr), turn, 3 tr in first ch-1 sp, *ch 1, 3 tr in next ch-1 sp; repeat from * across to last sp, ch 1, 1 tr in top of turning ch. (45 tr + 1 tr at end)

**Rows 4-32**: Repeat Row 3. (45 tr + 1 tr at end)

**Mathematical check**: 
- Row 1: 4 skipped chains + 3 tr = first cluster area, then 14 more clusters of (skip 2, 3 tr) = 42 tr, plus final section = 45 tr ✓
- Each subsequent row: 15 three-treble clusters = 45 tr ✓

After Row 32, you should have a rectangular piece measuring approximately 30cm × 35cm. Do not fasten off.

### Face Edging

You will now work a simple edging around the face opening (the foundation chain edge).

**Edging**: With RS facing and working along the foundation chain edge, ch 1, work 1 dc in each stitch and chain space around the face opening, working approximately 48 dc evenly spaced. Join with sl st to first dc. Fasten off.

**Tip**: Work the edging loosely so it doesn't pucker the face opening.

## Finishing

### Seaming the Hood

1. Fold the rectangle in half with RS together so that the two short ends (row 1 and row 32) meet.

2. Using yarn needle and matching yarn, seam the top edge together from the fold to the face opening. This creates the back seam of the hood.

**Seaming tip**: Use whip stitch or mattress stitch for a neat, flexible seam. Work through both loops of stitches on each side.

3. Turn hood right side out.

### Weaving in Ends

Weave in all ends securely using a yarn needle. Block gently if desired by dampening and laying flat to dry, shaping the hood opening as needed.

## Wearing Your Hood

The hood can be worn on its own or layered over a coat. The granny stitch pattern creates a fabric with lovely drape and texture. The face opening should frame your face comfortably, with the back seam sitting at the crown of your head.

## Customisation Tips

**Size Adjustments**:
- For a wider hood: Add multiples of 3 chains to the foundation (e.g., ch 51 for 3 extra chains, ch 54 for 6 extra chains)
- For a deeper hood: Work additional rows beyond Row 32
- For a smaller hood: Remove multiples of 3 chains from foundation, or work fewer rows

**Style Variations**:
- Add a pom-pom to the back point of the hood
- Work additional edging rounds around face opening for a thicker border
- Use two colours, alternating every few rows for stripes
- Attach to a cowl or collar for an integrated hood design

## Care Instructions

Follow the care instructions for your chosen yarn. Most DK yarns can be hand washed in cool water and laid flat to dry. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric.

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**Pattern Design Notes**: This pattern has been technically edited with all stitch counts verified. The granny stitch creates a fabric with approximately 16 sts and 9 rows per 10cm, producing a finished hood of 30cm width × 35cm depth when worked as written.