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How to Knit the Slouchy Knit Beanie
Knit a relaxed slouchy beanie in the round using double-pointed needles. The design begins with a simple K2, P2 ribbed band, then continues in stocking stitch before the crown is shaped with a sequence of decreases.
The pattern includes sizes 2-4, 5-7, 8-10, Lady and Man, with an optional pom pom added to the crown during finishing.
Project: Slouchy Knit Beanie
Pattern: A615
Craft type: Knitting
Difficulty: Intermediate
Measurements
| Size | 2-4 | 5-7 | 8-10 | Lady | Man |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| To fit head cm | 52 | 53 | 55 | 56 | 59 |
Yarn Required
| Lincraft Double Knitting 8ply 100g balls | 2-4 | 5-7 | 8-10 | Lady | Man |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quantity | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
Needles
- A set of 4.00mm double-pointed knitting needles.
- Wool needle for sewing in ends.
Requirements
A pom pom maker (optional - available from Lincraft).
Tension
22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm over stocking st, using 4.00mm needles.
SLOUCHY BEANIE
Using 4.00mm needles, cast on 82 (88-92-96-100) sts. Join sts in the round, taking care not to twist cast on edge. Place marker at beg of round.
1st row: * K2, P2, rep from * to end.
Rep 1st round 9 times.
Work in stocking st (knit every round) until Beanie measures 14 (15-16-17-17) cm from beg.
Next round: Knit and inc 8 (inc 2-dec 2-dec 6-0) sts evenly around … 90 (90-90-100-100) sts.
Sizes Lady and Man Only:
*K2tog, K8, rep from * to end … 90 sts.
All Sizes - Shape Crown:
1st round: * K2tog, K8, rep from * to end … 81 sts.
2nd and alt rounds: Knit.
3rd round: * K2tog, K7, rep from * to end.
5th round: * K2tog, K6, rep from * to end.
7th round: * K2tog, K5, rep from * to end.
9th round: * K2tog, K4, rep from * to end.
11th round: * K2tog, K3, rep from * to end.
13th round: * K2tog, K2, rep from * to end.
15th round: * K2tog, K1, rep from * to end.
17th round: * K2tog, rep from * to end … 9 sts.
Break off yarn, run end through rem sts, draw up tightly and fasten off securely.
FINISHING:
If desired, make a pom pom and attach to crown of beanie. Sew in all ends.
Alternative Yarns
The original pattern uses Lincraft Double Knitting 8ply. When choosing an alternative yarn, select an 8ply or equivalent yarn that can achieve the original tension of 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm over stocking stitch using 4.00mm needles.
Suitable Yarn Types
- 8ply acrylic yarn – an easy-care option with good colour availability.
- 8ply wool blend – provides warmth, softness and elasticity.
- Machine-washable 8ply wool – suitable for a warm everyday beanie.
- 8ply wool-acrylic blend – combines warmth with durability and easier care.
- Self-striping 8ply yarn – can add gradual colour changes throughout the stocking-stitch section.
Customisation Ideas
- Add the optional pom pom as directed in the original finishing instructions.
- Use a contrasting pom pom for a bold decorative finish.
- Choose a solid neutral yarn for a classic everyday beanie.
- Use self-striping yarn for automatic colour changes through the body.
- Make coordinating child and adult versions using the different size options in the original pattern.
To retain the original fit and proportions, keep all cast-on counts, size brackets, body measurements and crown decrease rounds unchanged when making decorative customisations.
Care Instructions
Follow the washing and care instructions provided on the ball band of the yarn used.
- Sew in all ends securely before washing.
- Check that the optional pom pom is firmly attached.
- Wash using the method and temperature recommended for the selected yarn.
- Avoid excessive agitation when using wool or fibres prone to felting.
- Gently reshape the ribbed band and slouchy crown while damp.
- Lay flat to dry where appropriate.
