The Leaf Motif Hat is a graceful and intricate design that highlights the artistry of vintage knitting. Its beautifully shaped leaf motifs radiate from the crown, creating a captivating and elegant texture. The thoughtful details, including the decorative bow at the back and optional ribbon stabilizers, ensure the hat is not only visually stunning but also functional and comfortable to wear.
Originally created in the mid-20th century, this hat reflects the sophisticated craftsmanship of the era, blending delicate design elements with practical construction techniques. The interplay of lace-like patterns and smooth Stockinette Stitch exemplifies the attention to detail that was characteristic of vintage fashion. This design is a testament to the timeless appeal of handmade accessories that elevate any outfit.
Modernized with clear instructions and materials suited for today’s knitters, the Leaf Motif Hat is a rewarding project for those seeking a mix of challenge and elegance. Whether you’re recreating it for a special occasion or as an heirloom-quality gift, this hat is sure to captivate with its classic charm and delicate beauty.
This pattern is transformed, adapted, and expanded from a public domain design originally published in Hats by Beehive Knitted and Crocheted (1950’s era). While the original design is in the public domain, the rewritten instructions and supplementary content on this site are ©Tiffany Bliss Mullins, 2024. All rights reserved. Have questions about this pattern, public domain, or copyright? Visit the FAQ page for answers and resources.
The Leaf Motif Hat – Knitting Pattern
Key Details
- Type: Knitted hat featuring leaf motifs and a decorative bow at the back.
- Size: Head size 22 inches.
- Gauge: 8 stitches and 10 rows = 1 inch in Stockinette Stitch.
- Features: Leaf motifs created with yarn overs and decreases, a fitted shape, and optional ribbons for added stability.
Materials
- Yarn: 1 oz of 4-ply fingering weight yarn.
- Needles:
- Set of 4 double-pointed knitting needles, size US 2 (2.75 mm).
- Two straight knitting needles, size US 2 (2.75 mm).
- Additional Supplies:
- ¾ yard grosgrain ribbon, 1 inch wide.
- Bobby pins for securing the hat (optional).
Pattern
Crown
- Foundation: Using double-pointed needles, cast on 8 stitches (distribute as 2, 2, and 4 stitches across the needles). Join in the round.
- Round 1: (Yarn forward, knit 1); repeat from * to end of round. (16 stitches total)
- Round 2 and all even rounds: Knit.
- Round 3: (Yarn forward, knit 3, yarn forward, knit 1 through back loop); repeat from * to end of round.
- Round 5: (Yarn forward, knit 5, yarn forward, knit 1 through back loop); repeat from * to end of round.
- Continue increasing every other round as established, adding 2 stitches between increases each time, until there are 128 stitches (32 on each of the first two needles and 64 on the third needle).
Leaf Motif Section
- Begin shaping the leaves using decreases and yarn overs:
- Round 23: (Slip 1 knitwise, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over, knit 4, yarn forward, knit 3, yarn forward, knit 4, knit 2 together, purl 1); repeat from * to end of round.
- Round 24 and alternate rounds: (Knit 15, purl 1); repeat from * to end of round.
- Continue in pattern, adjusting the leaf motifs with each round:
- Round 25: (Slip 1 knitwise, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over, knit 3, yarn forward, knit 5, yarn forward, knit 3, knit 2 together, purl 1); repeat.
- Round 27: (Slip 1 knitwise, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over, knit 2, yarn forward, knit 7, yarn forward, knit 2, knit 2 together, purl 1); repeat.
- Round 29: (Slip 1 knitwise, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over, knit 1, yarn forward, knit 9, yarn forward, knit 1, knit 2 together, purl 1); repeat.
- Continue increasing leaf size until the pattern is complete, ending with 144 stitches (36 on each of the first two needles and 72 on the third needle).
Shaping the Back and Face Band
- Back Opening: Knit 11 stitches, cast off the next 13 stitches for the back opening, and knit to the end of the round.
- Work back and forth in rows, decreasing at each edge:
- Row 1: Cast off 2 stitches, purl to the last 2 stitches, purl 2 together.
- Row 2: Cast off 2 stitches, knit to the last 2 stitches, knit 2 together.
- Repeat these two rows until 94 stitches remain. Cast off.
- Face Band: With straight needles, cast on 12 stitches. Work 14 inches in Stockinette Stitch (knit one row, purl the next). Cast off.
- Bow: With double-pointed needles, cast on 16 stitches. Join to work in the round and knit for 5 inches. Cast off.
Assembly
- Sewing and Finishing:
- Turn under a ¾-inch hem along the entire back edge of the hat and sew neatly in place.
- Sew one piece of grosgrain ribbon to the wrong side of the face band, aligning it with the edges. Turn the long edges of the band over the ribbon and sew down. Attach the band to the face edge of the hat, letting one hemmed edge extend beyond the cast-off edge.
- Bow Placement:
- Fold the ends of the bow into a point at each side and sew. Gather the center slightly and sew to the back of the hat, approximately ½ inch from the edge.
- Stabilizing:
- Add bobby pin loops at each side seam of the band to secure the hat in place while wearing (optional).
The Leaf Motif Hat is a refined and elegant project, blending intricate detailing with vintage charm. Perfect for special occasions or as a statement piece, this hat combines beauty and functionality in one timeless design.
