Stripes are the easiest way to add zip to a project. The sample hats for this pattern, knit in red white and blue, are graphic illustrations of the outcome of the 2020 presidential election - in stripes! The ratio of blue to red reflects the outcome of the electoral college vote, the popular vote and the second impeachment of Donald Trump. But mostly these hats are a celebration of the inauguration on January 20, 2021. You, of course, are free to use whatever colors you like in your own hats!

Stripes can be a little tricky if you’re a newbie. This simple pattern will teach you how to knit stripes in the round for a hat that will fit every member of the family! It includes tips and tricks for how to add colors, change colors, stripe in the round and how to carry your stripes. Once you get started - it’s hard to stop!

The Simple Stripey Hat is a perfect opportunity for a stash dive. All you need is 2 colors (or more) of worsted weight yarn that are happy next to each other. In a couple of hours - bam! You’ve got a cute new hat.

to fit ages
3-6m (6-12m, 1-3y, 4-6, 6-10) / Medium Adult (Large Adult)

yarn
worsted weight wool. Use as many or few colors as you like. For these hats I used:

• 1 100g skein diamond luxury pure wool superwash | blue (933) | 100% superwash wool

• 1 100g skein cascade 220 merino superwash |  parsnip (71) | 100% superwash wool

• 1 100g skein of cascade 220 |  bright red (8414) | 100% peruvian highland wool 

gauge
20 sts and 28 rows = 4” /10 cm over stockinette

needles
1 pair US 7 / 4.5mm circular needles or size needed to obtain gauge. Cord should be long enough to work small circumference in the round for cuff. 32” cord recommended for working in the round

notions
stitch markers, blunt tapestry needle for weaving in ends

skill level
advanced beginner

skills required
cast on, knit, purl, decrease, work in the round on magic loop