The idea for this hat was first conceived as a chemo cap for a loved family member. My aim was to create one that fitted all the requirements of a sensitive scalp; the softest organic yarn possible, a gentle rolled edge on the band, slouchiness to minimise contact but yet provide warmth, and in reverse stocking stitch, so the softest side of knit fabric is on the inner. After knitting it I decided it was perfect for everyone, really.
This is also a surprisingly quick and fun knit. It might look like there’s a heck of a lot of purling going on there, but not so! The hat is knit inside out with very minimal purling. This means a slight adjustment to the way the little mock cable is worked, but it’s super easy, worked without a cable needle and the stitch pattern is very intuitive. I love watching the little lavenders grow as more of them are worked into the pattern. The mock cable stitch pattern used in this slouchie hat is reminiscent of lavender drying upside down. For me this conjures up an atmosphere of calmness and serenity…. just what every knitter wants!

Construction:
Lavender is worked from the brim upwards beginning with a tubular cast-on. The hat is worked inside out to minimise the amount of purling worked. This means a slight adjustment to the way the little mock cable is worked, but it’s super easy, worked without a cable needle and the stitch pattern is very intuitive.

Sizing:
Small Medium: To fit actual head circumference of 20”/51cms (22”/56cms).

Finished Measurements:
Brim circumference: 16”/40.5cms (17¼”/44cms) — unstretched.
Length: 10¼”/26cms

Skill Level:
Intermediate

Techniques used:
Knit and purl
Increasing and decreasing
Working in the round
Knitting small circumferences in the round
Cabling without a needle
Alternative Long-Tail Tubular Cast-on

Yarn Requirements:
WOOLganic Organic Merino 8ply (100% organic merino; 113yd 103m/50g) - 2 balls.

OR DK/8ply weight yarn of 170 to 200 (155 to 185) yards/metres approximately.

Sample hat shown in WOOLganic Blossom colourway.