Slip Stitch Button Hat Knitting Pattern

Slip Stitch Button Hat Knitting Pattern by Plymouth Yarn

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from Plymouth Yarn creates a charming slip stitch button hat featuring a distinctive garter stitch flap secured with decorative buttons. The finished hat measures approximately 8 inches tall with a 21-inch circumference, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various head sizes.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern calls for Gina Chunky yarn by Plymouth Yarn, requiring just one 100-gram skein. The sample shown uses color number 103. You will also need a 16-inch size US 10 circular needle, size US 10 double-pointed needles, one stitch marker, and two buttons measuring between 1.00 and 1.25 inches in diameter.

Gauge and Needle Information

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 14 stitches over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on US size 10 (6mm) needles. This chunky gauge works up quickly, making this an ideal project for knitters seeking fast results with bulky yarn.

Construction Techniques

The hat employs several interesting construction methods. The brim is initially worked flat back and forth on the circular needle using a slip stitch pattern, creating textural interest. A unique bind-off technique involves slipping the final 10 stitches onto a double-pointed needle and holding them behind the first 10 stitches of the next row, then working them together to create a garter stitch flap. This flap becomes a functional design element that is later secured with buttons.

Stitch Techniques

• Slip Stitch (WYIF): Worked with yarn in front, this stitch creates a textured pattern in the brim section, alternating with knit stitches to produce visual interest and a slight gathering effect
• Stockinette Stitch: The main body of the hat is worked in stockinette stitch in the round, creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Knit Two Together (K2tog): Used progressively throughout eight decrease rounds to shape the crown, reducing stitches systematically until the top is closed
• Garter Stitch: Created naturally by the bind-off technique, forming the button flap

Pattern Structure and Shaping

The pattern begins with 82 cast-on stitches worked in the slip stitch brim pattern for 3 inches. The unique bind-off technique reduces the stitch count to 72 stitches, which are then worked in stockinette stitch in the round until the total length reaches approximately 6.5 inches from the cast-on edge. The crown shaping employs eight consecutive decrease rounds, each reducing the stitch count by working knit two together decreases spaced at regular intervals. The decreases progress from spacing stitches 7 apart down to consecutive decreases, efficiently tapering the crown.

Finishing Details

Once the crown is closed by threading the remaining stitches and pulling tight, the garter stitch flap is secured by sewing the two buttons through both layers of the flap. This creates a functional and decorative closure. The pattern suggests optionally tacking down the inside edge of the flap for additional security. A loopy pompom tops the hat, created by wrapping yarn loosely around a DVD case or 5.5-inch wide piece of cardboard approximately 25 times, then pinching and twisting the center to create a puffed effect.

Skill Level Considerations

This pattern combines basic knitting fundamentals with intermediate techniques. Knitters should be comfortable with circular needle work, double-pointed needles, slip stitches, and decreasing. The transition from flat knitting to working in the round and the unique bind-off technique add interest without excessive complexity, making this suitable for knitters with some experience.