Cat Bordhi Anemone Hats Knitting Pattern

Cat Bordhi Anemone Hats: Seamless Knit Hats with Decorative Tendrils

What Is Being Made

The Anemone Hats are a collection of seamless, bottom-up knit hats designed by Cat Bordhi for the whole family. Two main styles are included: the Everyday Anemone Hat, available in five sizes ranging from baby to adult, and the Arctic Anemone, offered in two adult sizes. Both styles feature distinctive three-dimensional tendrils that spiral outward from the crown, creating an eye-catching sculptural effect that resembles sea anemones.

Design Features and Construction

These hats are characterized by their optional Moebius brim, which incorporates a graceful half-twist into the ribbed edge. The Moebius construction is explained in detailed instructions and video tutorials included in the pattern. For knitters who prefer a simpler construction, alternative non-Moebius brims are provided that omit the half-twist while maintaining the hat's essential character. The hats are worked seamless and in the round, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a smooth, continuous fabric.

Signature Technique: Tendrils

The defining feature of the Anemone Hats is the tendril technique, taught to Cat Bordhi by Annie Modesitt. Tendrils are three-dimensional spiral embellishments that emerge from the crown of the hat. The Everyday Anemone Hat features more widely scattered tendrils, while the Arctic Anemone includes extra-thick tendrils that create a denser, more dramatic effect. The pattern includes a video tutorial demonstrating the tendril-making technique, making this advanced embellishment accessible to knitters of varying experience levels.

Stitches and Techniques

• Seamless, in-the-round construction using circular needles or double-pointed needles
• Bottom-up construction beginning with the brim
• Ribbed brim sections (either Moebius or standard)
• Stockinette stitch for the main hat body
• Tendril technique for three-dimensional crown embellishments
• Moebius half-twist integration for enhanced visual interest

Materials and Yarn Recommendations

The pattern recommends using superwash wool for these hats. This fiber choice is particularly important because the tendrils benefit significantly from machine washing and drying, which causes them to become delightfully bouncy, plump, and elegant. The superwash treatment allows for easy care while enhancing the sculptural quality of the finished hat.

Pattern Inclusions

The downloadable PDF pattern contains detailed instructions and illustrations for both hat styles. Step-by-step guidance for the Moebius brim begins on page 2, with a link to a video tutorial also provided. The Everyday Anemone Hat instructions appear on page 5, while the Arctic Anemone pattern begins on page 8. Alternative simple brim options are available on pages 6 and 9 for knitters who wish to skip the Moebius twist.

Why Knit an Anemone Hat

According to the designer, Anemone Hats offer multiple benefits beyond their striking appearance. The hats provide cozy warmth and beauty while flattering a wide range of face shapes—the design does not create an unflattering silhouette. The pattern notes that people who typically dislike wearing hats often find the Anemone Hat to be the first hat they feel genuinely good wearing. The tendrils and overall sculptural design generate enthusiastic responses from both knitters and non-knitters, making these hats conversation starters that showcase the artistry of handknit garments.