I always try to challenge myself using new techniques. This brioche beanie has a folded brim, and a simple stripe of double knitting beginning at the base of the hat that swerves into the crown like a highway, giving it that little extra. It is a perfect project for anyone new to brioche knitting as it also includes a simple guide to brioche knitting with some picture tutorials. I hope you like it!

Yarn: Sample S knitted with MC Merino Extra Fine (Drops) 105m/50g colour ‘Off White’ and CC Easy Care Classic (Mayflower) 106m/50g colour ‘Petrol’. Sample M and L knitted with Squishy Merino DK (Fruvalborg) 241 yds/235m per 115g in colourways MC/CC: M Oxidized/ Hidden in snow, L Rusty Yeti/Caramel. Note that for sample S MC has been used for brim. You can use any other DK weight yarn.

Needles: 3.5 mm/US 4 and 4.0mm/US 6, 40 cm/16’’ circular needles, and DPN’s OR long circular needles to work a small circumference in the round when shaping crown. Check your gauge and adjust needle size/s if necessary.

Gauge: 26 stitches x 34 rows for 10x10 cm / 4’’ in (k2, p1) unstretched ribbing with the smaller needle 17 stitches x 24 rows for 10x10 cm / 4’’ in brioche stitch with the larger needle

Finished size: Sizes: S (M, L). To fit head circumference: 40-46 (46-56, 56-61) cm / 16-18 (18-22, 22-24)’’ Length (brim folded): 20 (22, 24) cm / 8 (8.5, 9.5)’’ Width: 18.5 (20, 21.5) cm / 7.5 (8, 8.5)’’
Note that because of the incredibly stretchy fabric created by the brioche stitch any hat can be stretched or blocked out to fit most sizes. It will fall to a matter of taste. As I like my hats a little bit tighter, I knit the M for myself, even though my head circumference is 60 cm. In addition, I can also use the S hat, although it is a little bit tight.

Yardage: MC/CC: 60/110 (65/145, 75/170) m / 65/120 (75/160, 85/185) yds

Other items: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, 5-7 stitch markers. Optional: Pompom (mine is from LOVAFUR, 100% vegan)