Hornblende Hat

The Chicago Greystone buildings are a celebrated architectural style, renowned for their stunning stonework composed of various minerals, including hornblende. Inspired by this sturdy yet elegant design, the Hornblende Hat embodies the essence of Chicago’s unique charm. This super warm knitted hat features a cozy garter stitch band, making it an enjoyable and beginner-friendly project that remains engaging with its delightful variety.

The standout building block pattern is creatively formed by carrying a slipped stitch across a contrasting color, adding depth and interest to the design. Alternating bands of smooth stockinette and textured garter stitch not only enhance the visual appeal but also create significant warmth, making this hat perfect for chilly Midwest winters.

As you progress to the crown of the Hornblende Hat, you'll see the slip-stitch pattern beautifully transform into an elegant wheel and spoke design, adding a sophisticated touch to this warm accessory. With its remarkable style and functionality, this hat is an excellent choice for gifts or charity knits, truly embodying the spirit of thoughtful crafting.

This detailed pattern includes both charted and written instructions, catering to various knitting preferences and skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or a newbie eager to learn, this pattern ensures a satisfying and successful knitting experience.

A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated test knitters: Becky6, knitsticks, LongmontKathy, mlb, and sandyvar, whose valuable feedback helped refine this pattern.

Don’t miss out on creating your own Hornblende Hat, a testament to both comfort and style, ideal for anyone looking to embrace the beauty of the Midwest through their knitting projects.