Weekend Project: Itasca Slouch Hat
![](http://michiganfineyarns.com/cdn/shop/articles/weekend-project-itasca-slouch-hat-663872.jpg?v=1670443413)
Have you been participating in the Blue Sky Fibers Pemberton Pullover KAL? We are loving all of the progress we’ve seen, but sometimes it’s hard to commit to a sweater or other large project, right?
If you are looking for another Blue Sky Fibers project, we highly recommend the Itasca Slouch! This FREE pattern is perfect for an advanced beginner, and would be a great project for mixing in leftovers or mini skeins from your stash! (If you’ve been following our #MFYStashChallenge this month we’re thinking “fewer days, fewer yards” so this would be perfect!)
![Slouch Hat with a Pom Pom made with neutral shades of blue, brown, grey and cream colored wool yarns from Blue Sky Fibers. A quick and easy knitting pattern for crafters of all levels.](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2638/1262/files/Blue_SKy_Fibers_Itsaca_Slouch_Hat_480x480.png?v=1612462375)
This hat is a modern take on a classic style and is a blank slate for color. Or neutrals! The way designer Nancy Ekvall mixes thick and thin stripes blends the colors while adding on-trend visual interest. A tone-on-tone fade would look amazing. Bold colors with white or black would be fantastic. A muted, low-contrast version would still capture attention. Can you tell we think the possibilities for this hat are exciting?!
We can’t forget to mention the construction details. Squishy garter stitch over the ears - yes, please! With a drapey stockinette top to create the slouch? Simple but effective contrast that’s practical and beautiful. Does it get any better? YES. Finishing it off with a thick, iconic pom pom puts it over the top!
![Close up image of top of a slouch hat with a Pom Pom made with neutral shades of blue, brown, grey and cream colored wool yarns from Blue Sky Fibers. A quick and easy knitting pattern for crafters of all levels.](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2638/1262/files/Blue_SKy_Fibers_Itsaca_Slouch_Hat_Bottom_Close_Up_Top_480x480.png?v=1612462799)
If we’ve convinced you to give this project a try, here is the basic information you’d need to get started. Big needles will make this project fly, and hats are a great way to practice decreases because designers are so clever with where and how they arrange them! We are also happy to help if you haven’t worked in the round or carried yarn for stripes before. Just give us a call or stop by the shop!
Featured Pattern Name: Itasca Slouch
Company: Blue Sky Fibers
Designer: Nancy Ekvall
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Yarn Weight: Aran
Suggested Yarns: Blue Sky Fibers Extra (Alpaca/Merino)
- US 10 16” circular needles (or size to obtain gauge)
- US 10 double pointed needles (or size to obtain gauge)
- Stitch marker
- Tapestry needle
- OPTIONAL: Pom-pom maker
- Garter stitch
- Stockinette stitch
- Working in the round
- Changing colors
- Decreases