If you're anything like me, finding a hat that actually fits and accommodates natural hair can feel like an impossible mission. I've got a larger-than-average head and a whole lot of hair to contend with, and store-bought hats just never seem to cut it. They're either too tight, squishing my hair, or they just don't provide enough coverage. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and learn to knit my own hats. It's been a journey of trial and error, but I've finally discovered some techniques that work wonders, and I'm excited to share them with you!
My first attempt was a simple, slouchy hat. It looked great... until I tried to wear it. The fit was off. It either slipped off or pressed too hard on my forehead. I also wanted something that would protect my hair from the harsh winter air. That's when I had the idea to stitch a satin bonnet inside. It was a game-changer! Suddenly, I had a warm, comfortable hat that actually fit and kept my hair healthy. This experience taught me the importance of customizing hat patterns to fit my unique needs.
I started experimenting with different patterns and techniques. Here's what I learned:
The first thing I realized was that a slouchy hat is essential. It provides the extra space needed to accommodate natural hair, locs, or even just a lot of volume. I found that starting with a standard pattern for the brim and the first couple of inches, and then simply increasing the size of the hat body, worked really well. But the real secret is the lining. A satin lining protects your hair from friction and moisture loss, which is crucial in the winter.
I also discovered that the type of ribbing you use can make a big difference. I have a large head, and I found that brioche ribbing is much stretchier than other types of ribbing. It allows the hat to conform to my head without feeling too tight. You can see small gaps between the yarn strands when it's fully stretched, but it's a small price to pay for comfort. It's also a beautiful texture that adds depth to the hat.
Don't be afraid to adjust patterns to suit your needs. You can add sections to make a hat more slouchy or adjust the measurements to fit a larger head. Knitting is all about creativity, so experiment and see what works best for you.
I came across a pattern called the Everyday Lined Hat by Bayron Handmade, and it looked promising. I haven't tried it myself yet, but it's designed with a lining in mind, which is a great starting point.
For those extra cold days, earflaps are a must. I was working on the 1898 Hat pattern for someone with a very large head (23-24" circumference), and their top priority was earflaps. I used DK yarn and adjusted the measurements and pattern to accommodate both the yarn and the larger head size. It took some tweaking, but the end result was a warm and comfortable hat with earflaps that fit perfectly.
Here are some practical tips based on my experiences: