Tahki Yarns Niagara Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Niagara Knit Hat

What Is Being Made

The Niagara is a seamless knit hat designed by Susan Baron, offered in three sizes: Small (18"/45.5 cm circumference), Medium (19¼"/49 cm circumference), and Large (20½"/52 cm circumference). The finished hat measures 7 inches (18 cm) in length for Small and Medium sizes, and 7¾ inches (19.5 cm) for the Large size. This intermediate-level project features a distinctive two-section construction method that eliminates the need for seaming, making it an elegant choice for knitters seeking a polished, professional finish.

Construction Techniques

The Niagara employs a sophisticated bottom-up, seamless construction worked entirely in the round using circular needles and double-pointed needles. The hat is uniquely engineered in two separate sections without seaming. The process begins with a ribbed edge worked in the main color, followed by the introduction of a contrasting color for a lace overlay section. After completing the lace overlay, the knitter picks up stitches from behind the ribbing using the main color to create an inner layer. Both sets of stitches are then joined together before shaping the crown of the hat. This innovative technique creates visual interest while maintaining structural integrity.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Niagara incorporates two primary stitch patterns. Stockinette stitch (St st) forms the foundation of the hat's body, providing a smooth, classic fabric. The Lace Pattern is worked over a multiple of 6 stitches and repeats over 8 rounds, featuring yarn overs and decreases (ssk and k2tog) that create an elegant openwork design. The lace pattern alternates between decorative rounds featuring paired yarn overs and decreases, and plain knit rounds that allow the lace motif to develop clearly. The ribbing at the hat's edge uses 1x1 ribbing (alternating knit and purl stitches) to provide stretch and a secure fit.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for Tahki Yarns Manchester, a premium blend consisting of 45% fine Highland wool, 35% superfine alpaca, and 20% acrylic. The yarn is available in 1.75-ounce (50-gram) balls with 109 yards (100 meters) per ball. The Small size requires 1 ball of color #11 pacific (main color) and 1 ball of color #1 natural (contrasting color). The Medium size also uses 1 ball of the main color with 1 ball of contrasting color. The Large size requires 2 balls of the main color and 1 ball of the contrasting color. This fiber blend offers the warmth and softness of wool and alpaca combined with the durability and easy-care properties of acrylic.

Needles and Tools

• Two size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles, 16 inches (40 cm) long, or size needed to obtain gauge
• One set of size 7 (4.5 mm) double-pointed needles
• One size 6 (4 mm) circular needle, 16 inches (40 cm) long
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and round beginnings
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends

Gauge Information

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 20 stitches and 29 rounds equal 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch when worked with the larger needles. For the lace pattern sections, 19 stitches and 30 rounds equal 4 inches (10 cm) when worked with the larger needles. The pattern emphasizes taking time to check gauges before beginning, as gauge accuracy directly affects the final hat's fit and proportions.