TinCanKnits' Barley Hat is a perennial favorite and was the perfect project for new-to-us Manos del Uruguay Maxima. We used Camo, with its woodsy shades of moss green, olive, and tan. When the cool temps come, we’re ready!
About the Yarn
Maxima is a worsted-weight, 100% extrafine merino wool with a soft, lofty feel. Just what you want for a hat pulled down over your ears on a cold morning!
Its hand-dyed colors look beautiful in simple stitches, making Barley a great first project to try the yarn. Along with Camo, we’re showing Beehive, Spirulina, Oxblood, and Siam above. Go bright, keep it earthy, or choose a rich solid - with Manos's beautiful hand-dyed colors, you can't go wrong!
Design Details
Barley starts at the ribbed brim and is knit in the round up to the crown. A garter stitch panel adds a little texture to the smooth stockinette. Simple stitches, with enough going on to keep it interesting.
Follow the pattern’s length for a snug beanie, or knit a little longer before decreasing for a slouchier fit. Sizes range from newborn through adult large, so you can make one for just about anyone.
If you’ve been thinking about knitting your first hat, this is a good place to start. You’ll practice working in the round and decreasing for the crown, with tincanknits’ helpful tutorials to guide you.
What You’ll Need
- Pattern: Barley worsted by tincanknits, available free on Ravelry.
- Yarn: 1 skein of Manos del Uruguay Maxima, with 219 yards per 100 grams. One skein covers any size at the standard length. Our sample is in Camo.
- Needles: US 6 and US 8, or sizes needed to get gauge. For toddler through adult sizes, the pattern calls for 16-inch circulars plus double-pointed needles or a long circular for working small circumferences. Newborn and baby sizes use double-pointed needles or magic loop throughout.
- Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rounds over 4 inches in stockinette on the larger needles.
- Notions: Stitch markers and a tapestry needle.
Why You’ll Love It
- Soft merino feels good against your forehead and ears.
- One skein is all you need for a hat at the standard length.
- It’s a manageable next step if you’re ready to move beyond knitting flat.
- Seven sizes make it a handy pattern for winter gifts.
Pick your favorite Maxima color online, or stop by the shop to see—and feel—the yarn for yourself. We’re happy to help you pick a color!
Making a Barley Hat of your own? Tag us @loopyarn so we can see your version.
