Opuntia Hat

This design is inspired by nature, with the central focus of this pattern drawing on the shape of the Prickly Pear, or Opuntia, of the cactus family. The border motif reflects additional patterns found in nature, including clouds and mountains. A tall ribbed edge and a slouchy fit makes this quick knit a great staple pattern for yourself or for gift knitting!

Suggested Yarn

• 3 colors of DK or Light Worsted weight yarn
• Cedar House Yarns - Irish Yearling DK, 100% Superwash Merino Wool, 100g Skein, 231 yards (211 m)
• Sample: Straw (cream)
• Malabrigo Rios (Worsted), 100% Superwash Merino Wool 100g Skein, 210 yards (192m)
• Sample: Pearl Ten (navy grey, )Lotus (multicolored)

Approximate Yardage

• Yards: 60 (90, 115) yds MC, 50 (70, 87) yds CC1, 38 (50, 62) yds CC2
• Meters: 54 (83, 105) m MC, 45 (64, 80) m CC1, 35 (45, 57) m CC2

Suggested Needles

• US 5/3.75mm for ribbing
• US 6/4 mm or size needed to obtain gauge
• 16in (40cm) circular needles
• DPNs or needles for magic loop

Gauge

• 21 sts and 25 rows per 4in/10cm in colorwork

Size(s)

• Child (Adult S/M, Adult L/XL)

Finishes Measurements

• 9 (11, 11) in or 22 (28 , 28) cm height
• 16 (20, 24) in circumference (unstretched)
• 40 (50, 60) cm circumference (unstretched)

This is a great pattern for beginners!

Construction

• This pattern is knit in the round, from the bottom up, with even decreases through the crown

Special Techniques

• Twisted ribbing
• 2-color stranded colorwork in the round
• Chart reading