Circular knitting help

How-to Questions
1

Hello!

I a new here, my name is Andrea :slight_smile:

I am trying to make a child’s hat on 16 inch, size 11 circular needles. The child’s head is 20 inches around. Is there a simple equation to know how many stitches to cast on? I have made several hats, all the wrong size! I am frustrated!

Thank you so much in advance!

2

Welcome to Knitting Help, Andrea!

Here’s a basic hat calculator. The cast on will vary based on the yarn weight you’re using so make a swatch and count stitches. Since you’re using a large needle I’m assuming you’re using bulky or chunky type yarn?

Doh! Forgot the link!
http://www.earthguild.com/products/knitcroc/marypat/hatcalc.htm

3

Uh, Jan, think you forgot to post the link to the calculator. :slight_smile:

4

Thanks guys! Jan, I will be back to look for the calculator. Thank you again!

And yes, bulky yarn. Softee brand. It has been my go to this winter.

5

You might want to look at some patterns for simple hats. If I got the yarn weight wrong, you can change it. I included children and teens in the search. Happy :knitting: !

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/search#difficulties=1&query=hat&photo=yes&availability=free&fit=teen%2Bchild&view=captioned_thumbs&craft=knitting&sort=popularity&weight=bulky

6

GG, those are some cute hats.
If the child’s head is 20inches, you’d like the hat to be 1-2inches smaller. The stretch will keep the hat on comfortably. If you’re using Bernat Softee chunky (11sts/4inches) then cast on about 49-52sts. You might first check to see what gauge you’re getting but if you’re close to 11sts/4inches, you’ll be fine.

(11sts/4inches = xsts/18-19inches)

7

Oops! I fixed the post, but here it is again.
http://www.earthguild.com/products/knitcroc/marypat/hatcalc.htm