Mastering the Art of Finishing: How to Close a Knitted Hat

Winter is here, and it’s time to bundle up in our coziest knitted hats. Yet, as much as we love these warm and stylish accessories, there comes a time when we need to put them away for the season. But how do we properly close a knitted hat to ensure it will stay in good condition until next winter? Fear not; in this article, we will guide you through the easy and effective steps on how to close a knitted hat. Whether you’re a beginner knitter or have been crafting for years, these tips will help you preserve your hats for the years to come. So grab your favorite yarn, needles, and let’s get started on learning how to close a knitted hat like a pro!

Knitted hats are great accessories for keeping your head warm and adding a stylish touch to your outfit. Whether you’ve made it yourself or purchased a knitted hat, knowing how to properly close it is essential for a well-finished look. Closing a knitted hat can be done using various techniques, depending on the type of hat you have and the look you want to achieve. In this article, we’ll go through some of the most common methods on how to close a knitted hat.

The Traditional Loop Method

The traditional loop method is one of the most commonly used techniques for closing a knitted hat. This method is ideal for hats with a ribbed edge or brim. Here’s how to do it:

1. Begin by turning your hat inside out.
2. Take a darning needle and thread it with the same yarn used to knit your hat.
3. Insert the needle through one stitch on the first row of your brim/ribbed edge.
4. Bring the needle over and insert it into the next stitch, creating a loop.
5. Pull tightly but not too tight, as this will cause your brim/ribbed edge to gather.
6. Continue doing this till you reach back where you started from.
7. On your last loop, bring the needle through both loops at once and knot off.

This technique creates a clean horizontal line on your hat without any bumps, giving it that professional look.

The Invisible Seam Method

If you want an almost invisible closure for your knitted hat, then this is the method for you! It is excellent for hats with no visible edge or if you don’t want any added bulk near the brim.

1.Bring together two open ends of your hat with right sides facing each other.
2.Thread your needle with yarn and insert it into the first stitch on each side.
3. Pull to make sure the two sides are aligned, then create a knot at the end of the yarn.
4. Now you will start joining the hat using an invisible stitch, also known as a mattress stitch.
5. Insert your needle under the horizontal bar between two stitches on one side.
6. Next, move to the other side and insert your needle under the corresponding horizontal bar.
7. Continue doing this, pulling tight after each stitch until you reach the end of both sides.
8. Knot off and weave in any loose ends.

With this method, you’ll have a seamless join for your knitted hat that is barely visible.

The Three-Needle Bind-Off Method

The three-needle bind-off method is perfect for hats with a folded brim or if you want a firm edge for your hat. It creates a sturdy closure that doesn’t require any additional sewing.

1. Begin by knitting your hat as usual until you reach the desired length.
2. When it’s time to close it up, turn your hat inside out and place one half of it on one double-pointed needle and the other half on another double-pointed needle.
3. With a third needle (or just use one of the double-pointed needles), knit through both stitches on each needle simultaneously using the bind-off method (knit 1 stitch, then pass first knitted stitch over second stitched).
4. Continue doing this till you’ve bound off all stitches, leaving enough yarn for sewing up remaining gap in top of hat.
5. Turn right side out and enjoy your neatly closed knitted hat!

The Double-Knitting Method

The double-knitting method is great for creating a reversible edge on your knitted hat with no visible seam or bulkiness.

1. First, knit two layers of fabric simultaneously, making sure you have the same amount of stitches on each needle.
2. Once you reach the desired length, separate your two layers and place them on separate needles.
3. With right sides facing each other, align the two layers and begin knitting them together at the edge.
4. For every stitch, catch both sets of stitches from both layers and bind off as usual.
5. Once you get to the last few stitches, cut your yarn and thread it through a darning needle.
6. Pull tight to close off the gap and weave in any loose ends.

With this method, you’ll have a thick but flexible edge for your knitted hat that is completely reversible.

Knowing how to properly close a knitted hat is essential for a professional-looking finish. Whether it’s through traditional methods like the loop or invisible seam technique or more unconventional ways like the three-needle bind-off or double-knitting method, each technique has its unique outcome to achieve different looks. Experiment with different methods to see what works best for your knitted hat and don’t be afraid to try new techniques! With these methods in hand, you can easily create a well-finished closure for any knitted hat.

Overview of How to Close a Knitted Hat

Closing the top of a knitted hat is the final and essential step in completing your project. It not only gives your hat a polished look, but it also ensures that it fits comfortably on the head. The closing method you choose will depend on your knitting pattern and personal preference. In this guide, we will explore the different ways to finish off a knitted hat, including basic drawstring, gathered top, spiral decrease, and i-cord techniques.

Basic Drawstring Method

The basic drawstring method is the most straightforward way to close a knitted hat. It involves threading a strand of yarn through the remaining stitches on the needle and pulling it tight to close the top. This method works well for simple, straight edge hats with no embellishments or patterns.

To begin, cut a long strand of yarn (approximately double the circumference of your hat) and thread it through a tapestry needle. Hold your knitting in one hand and insert the needle into each stitch on the needle from right to left until you reach the end.

Once all stitches are threaded onto the yarn, draw it tightly to cinch them closed. This method creates a small opening at the top of your hat that can be pulled tight and tied in a bow for added decoration. Trim any excess yarn and weave in ends for a neat finish.

Gathered Top Method

The gathered top method creates an elegant look with minimal effort. It is suitable for hats with slouchy or slightly tapered tops. Unlike drawstring closure, this method does not leave an opening at the top of your hat.

To start, cut a long strand of yarn (about 1.5 times the circumference of your hat) and thread it through a tapestry needle. With right-side facing out, insert the needle under every stitch on your needle and pull tightly to gather the top of the hat.

Once all stitches are gathered, tie a secure knot to hold everything in place. If desired, you can also wrap the yarn around the gathered stitches a few more times for a more defined look. Trim any excess yarn and weave in ends for a clean finish.

Spiral Decrease Method

The spiral decrease method works best for hats with intricate patterns or designs that converge at the top. It involves knitting together two or more stitches at regular intervals until only a few stitches remain, which are then pulled tight to close the top of the hat.

To begin, follow the pattern instructions to determine how many decreases are needed and at what intervals. Keep in mind that for every decrease, two stitches are knitted together as one.

Proceed with knitting until you have reached the desired number of stitches. Then, cut your yarn leaving a long tail (approximate circumference of your hat) and thread it through the tapestry needle. Insert needle through each remaining stitch on the needle from right to left and pull tight to close top. Secure with a knot, trim excess yarn and weave in ends.

I-Cord Method

The i-cord method creates a distinctive braided appearance on top of your hat. It works best for smaller hats, such as baby and toddler sizes.

To begin, cast on three stitches onto double-pointed needles. Knit those three stitches across one row. Do not turn work but slide them back onto your left-hand needle ready to knit again.

Knit these same three stitches again without turning or sliding them off until you have achieved an i-cord long enough to close the top of your hat (approximately 1-2 inches). Once done, cut yarn leaving a long tail (approximate circumference of your hat), thread it through tapestry needle and pass through remaining stitches on your double-pointed needles. Pull tightly to close top, secure with a knot, trim excess yarn and weave in ends.

In summary, there are various methods to close the top of a knitted hat, each with its unique look and purpose. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced knitter, you can choose the closing method that best suits your knitting pattern and personal preference.

Remember to always have the right tools on hand, including tapestry needles, scissors, and double-pointed needles (if using i-cord method). Additionally, take your time and pay attention to detail to achieve a neat finish for your hat.

Practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to try out different methods until you find the one that works best for you. With these tips and techniques in mind, you will be able to confidently close your knitted hats and create beautiful finished projects.

Q: What materials do I need to close a knitted hat?
A: You will need a tapestry needle, scissors, and the same yarn used to knit the hat.

Q: How do I close the top of a basic knitted hat?
A: To close the top of a basic knitted hat, thread your tapestry needle with the yarn and insert it through each stitch on the last row. Pull tight to cinch the top closed and weave in the ends.

Q: Can I use a different yarn to close my knitted hat than what was used in knitting it?
A: It is recommended to use the same yarn for closing as what was used in knitting to maintain consistency and match the overall look of the hat.

Q: How do I close an open knitted hat with ribbing at the edge?
A: To close an open knitted hat with ribbing, knit or purl stitches together at regular intervals around the edge until you have reached your desired size. Finish by cinching the remaining stitches closed using a tapestry needle.

Q: How can I seamlessly close a round-top knit hat without any visible seam?
A: To seamlessly close a round-top knit hat, use Kitchener stitch or grafting technique. This method creates an invisible seam that blends perfectly into the rest of the stitches.

Q: Can I add pom poms or other embellishments while closing a knitted hat?
A: Yes, you can add pom poms or other embellishments while closing your knitted hat. Simply attach them using your preferred method after cinching and securing the top of your hat closed.

In conclusion, closing a knitted hat may seem like a daunting task for beginners, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be easily achieved. The key to a successful closure lies in carefully planning and executing each step, from weaving in loose ends to creating a seamless final stitch.

As discussed, there are various methods for closing a knitted hat, including the three-needle bind off, Kitchener stitch, and gathering technique. While each method has its own pros and cons, it ultimately boils down to personal preference and experience. It is important to try out different techniques and see what works best for you.

One crucial aspect of closing a knitted hat that cannot be emphasized enough is the importance of maintaining tension throughout the process. This not only ensures a neat finish but also prevents the hat from becoming too tight or too loose.

Another key takeaway is that practice makes perfect when it comes to knitting in general. Whether you are just starting or have been knitting for years, mastering the art of closing a knitted hat takes time and patience. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes as they can be great learning opportunities.

Lastly, always remember to have fun while knitting! It is a creative and fulfilling hobby that allows us to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Em

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.