Ups and Downs Stripe Hat & Mittens Knitting Pattern

Ups and Downs Stripe Hat & Mittens in Berroco Ultra Wool

What Is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern set includes two coordinated accessories: a slouchy or fitted hat and matching mittens. The hat is available in five sizes ranging from 16" to 24" head circumference, with adjustable height options for both slouchy and fitted versions. The mittens coordinate with the hat design, allowing knitters to create a complete winter accessory set.

Hat Design Details

The hat features the signature Ups and Downs Stripe pattern, which creates a distinctive textured appearance. The design uses a corrugated ribbing technique combined with striped colorwork. The pattern is worked in the round from the bottom up, with finished measurements of 16" to 24" head circumference. The slouchy version ranges from 8½" to 10½" in height, while the fitted version measures 7½" to 9½" in height. Knitters can easily adjust the height to personal preference.

Mittens Design Details

The mittens are designed to complement the hat using the same yarn colors and pattern techniques, creating a coordinated set. The mittens follow the same intermediate-level construction methods as the hat.

Techniques Used

• Corrugated Ribbing: A technique that combines ribbing with multiple yarn colors held simultaneously, creating a textured vertical stripe effect while maintaining elasticity
• Striped Colorwork: The Ups and Downs Stripe pattern incorporates multiple colors to create visual interest and texture
• I-Cord Method: Used for creating raised column details that pop forward in the pattern
• Circular Knitting: Both the hat and mittens are worked in the round using circular needles and double-pointed needles
• Long-tail Cast On: The recommended cast-on method for establishing the foundation stitches

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch used throughout the pattern, creating a smooth fabric base
• Corrugated Ribbing: A specialized ribbing pattern that maintains yarn tension across multiple colors
• Ups and Downs Stripe Pattern: A textured stripe design that creates dimensional columns in the finished fabric

Materials and Yarn

This pattern is designed specifically for Berroco Ultra Wool, a 100% wool yarn. The pattern calls for one 100-gram ball each of two primary colors: #3334 Cast Iron (C1) and #3300 Snow (C2), plus a small amount of #3336 Nasturtium (C3) for accent details. The yarn weight and fiber content are essential to achieving the correct gauge and fabric characteristics.

Needles and Notions

• One 16" circular needle, size 7 (4.50 mm)
• One set of four double-pointed needles, size 7 (4.50 mm)
• One stitch marker for tracking round beginnings
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Optional: 3½" pompom maker for hat embellishment

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern requires a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rounds over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished hat fits properly. The pattern offers sizing guidance: for the slouchy version, choose the size closest to actual head circumference; for a more fitted version, choose a size 1–2 inches smaller than actual head circumference.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Intermediate difficulty. Knitters should be comfortable with circular knitting, working with multiple colors, and maintaining consistent tension across different yarn colors in the corrugated ribbing technique.

Pattern Information

This is version 2 of the Ups and Downs Stripe Hat & Mittens pattern, designed by Kate Atherley and published by Berroco, Inc. The pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF format, allowing immediate access upon purchase. The design emphasizes that the C3 (Nasturtium) accent columns will naturally pop forward as part of the intended aesthetic of the pattern.