Back in 2019, I released the Washington Park Cowl. It’s a lightweight, very simple pattern that I’ve loved and knit a couple of additional times in different yarns over the years. I wanted to knit a worsted version of it and then had to make a hat to match!
The combination of a simple broken rib (knit stitches and seed stitch) and worsted weight wool makes this set the ultimate quick, cozy project for crisp autumn days. Whether you’re looking for an approachable pattern for an advanced beginner or a relaxing, meditative project between complex knits, this set is such a fun build.
Download the pattern pdf’s using the buttons at the very top of this post.
The Washington Park Cowl (Worsted)
The cowl is knit seamlessly in the round, with clean 1×1 ribbed edges that frame the textured broken rib body. The worsted weight yarn gives it wonderful structure and warmth without being overly bulky.
- Skill Level: Easy-Intermediate
- Skills Needed: Working in the round, knitting, purling
- Finished Size: One size (30″ circumference, 18″ height)
- Gauge: 20 sts and 28 rows = 4″ in body stitch pattern knit in the round
- Yarn Requirements: Approx. 400 yards of worsted-weight wool or wool blend yarn
- Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) 16″ circular needles
The Washington Park Beanie (Worsted)
To complete the set, the matching beanie pairs a deep folded 1×1 ribbed brim with the signature seed stitch body. It tops off with clean crown decreases (ssk) that keep the pattern lines neat and smooth.
- Skill Level: Advanced Beginner – Intermediate
- Skills Needed: Knitting and purling in the round, decreasing (ssk)
- Sizes: Adult Small (Medium, Large) — Stretches to fit 20″ (22″, 24″) head circumference
- Height: 7 ½” (8″, 8 ½”) with brim folded
- Gauge: 20 sts and 28 rows = 4″ in pattern stitch
- Yarn Requirements: 160 (175, 190) yards worsted-weight wool or wool-blend yarn (Sample shown in Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Arrowwoocularsd)
- Needles: US 7 (5.0 mm) double-pointed needles or cir for magic loop
Pattern Details & Tips
- Yarn Pick & Substitution: A worsted-weight wool or wool blend will bring out the stitch definition in the broken rib pattern beautifully. When substituting yarns, aim for a relatively smooth yarn to help the rib pop and look for a wool or wool-blend as wool has great elasticity to help the hat maintain a great shape and fit.
- Gauge Swatching: While getting the exact gauge is not super important for the cowl, it is important to check your gauge to ensure the hat fits well. One of my tricks is to cast on the hat and do a spot check on the gauge to see if the sizing is on track after knitting a few inches.
- Finishing: Wet blocking is highly recommended to let the broken rib pattern relax and set the ribbed brim smoothly. I find that the brims of my hats always look better after blocking!
Download the pattern pdf’s using the buttons at the very top of this post (blue buttons labeled “Washington Park Beanie” and “Washington Park Cowl”).
Pick your favorite color, cast on, and happy knitting!
~Kara McKinley