The Coastal Dune Scalloped Hat and Wrap Cowl Free Pattern

Embrace the Coast: Knit the Coastal Dune Scalloped Hat and Wrap Cowl Set

There is a quiet, meditative beauty in the patterns left by wind on sand. The Coastal Dune Scalloped Hat and Wrap Cowl pattern captures that organic, layered texture using a clever combination of slipped stitches and yarn overs. This set is designed for the knitter who loves texture without complexity. The result is a modern, soft, and gently ruffled accessory that feels like a breath of sea air. Whether you are a confident beginner or an intermediate knitter looking for a satisfying, rhythmic project, this pattern will guide you to create a stunning, wearable piece of art.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials. The pattern uses worsted weight yarn (Category 4) and a single needle size for the entire set, making it a streamlined project.

Yarn

• Weight: Worsted weight (Category 4).
• Shown in: Knit Picks Swish Worsted (100% Superwash Merino Wool).
• Colors: Main Color (MC) 'Dune' (warm sandy beige) and Contrasting Color (CC) 'Fjord' (soft muted teal).
• Yardage:
  • Hat: Approximately 220 yards (200 meters).
  • Cowl: Approximately 320 yards (290 meters).

Needles & Notions

• Hat Needle: US 7 (4.5 mm) 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle.
• Cowl Needle: US 7 (4.5 mm) 24-inch (60 cm) circular needle.
• Crown Decreases: A set of US 7 (4.5 mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs).
• Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors.

Gauge

20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch, after blocking. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for the fit and drape of the scalloped pattern.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is worked in the round from the bottom up. The hat and cowl share the same stitch patterns, making it easy to knit both pieces. Read through all instructions before beginning.

Part 1: The Coastal Dune Hat

Brim

1. With MC, cast on 100 stitches using your preferred method. Join to work in the round, being extremely careful not to twist the cast-on edge. Place a stitch marker to indicate the beginning of the round.
2. Work in K1, P1 ribbing for 1.5 inches (approximately 10-12 rounds).

Body (Textured Pattern)

This 4-round pattern creates the subtle, dune-like texture.

• Round 1 (Set-up): Knit all stitches.
• Round 2: *K1, slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in front (wyif); repeat from * to end.
• Round 3: Knit all stitches.
• Round 4: *Slip 1 stitch purlwise wyif, K1; repeat from * to end.

Repeat Rounds 1-4 until the piece measures 5 inches (12.5 cm) from the cast-on edge, ending after completing Round 4.

Scallop Pattern

This 4-round pattern creates the wavy, scalloped edge. Note: The stitch count remains 100 (a multiple of 5).

• Round 1: *K2tog (knit two together), yo (yarn over), K1, yo, ssk (slip, slip, knit); repeat from * to end.
• Round 2: Knit all stitches.
• Round 3: *K1, yo, ssk, k2tog, yo; repeat from * to end.
• Round 4: Knit all stitches.

Repeat Rounds 1-4 two more times, for a total of 3 scallop repeats.

Crown Decreases

Switch to double-pointed needles when the stitches become too tight for the circular needle. Work decrease rounds as follows, knitting all even-numbered rounds (Rounds 2, 4, 6, etc.) plain.

• Round 1: *K8, k2tog; repeat from * to end. (90 stitches remain)
• Round 3: *K7, k2tog; repeat from * to end. (80 stitches)
• Round 5: *K6, k2tog; repeat from * to end. (70 stitches)
• Round 7: *K5, k2tog; repeat from * to end. (60 stitches)
• Round 9: *K4, k2tog; repeat from * to end. (50 stitches)
• Round 11: *K3, k2tog; repeat from * to end. (40 stitches)
• Round 13: *K2, k2tog; repeat from * to end. (30 stitches)
• Round 15: *K1, k2tog; repeat from * to end. (20 stitches)
• Round 17: *K2tog; repeat from * to end. (10 stitches)

Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Thread the tail through a tapestry needle, then draw it through the remaining 10 stitches. Pull tight to close the hole, and weave in the end securely on the inside of the hat.

Part 2: The Coastal Dune Wrap Cowl

Brim

1. With MC, cast on 180 stitches. Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist. Place a marker for the beginning of the round.
2. Work in K1, P1 ribbing for 1.5 inches.

Body (Textured Pattern)

Work the same 4-round textured pattern as the hat body (Rounds 1-4) for 6 inches (15 cm).

Scallop Pattern

Work the same 4-round scallop pattern as the hat (Rounds 1-4) for 3 repeats.

Finishing

1. Work in K1, P1 ribbing for 1.5 inches.
2. Bind off loosely in pattern (knit the knit stitches and purl the purl stitches as you bind off). A loose bind-off is crucial to maintain the stretch and drape of the scalloped edge.
3. Weave in all ends with a tapestry needle.
4. Blocking: Gently wet block or steam block the pieces. This step is essential to open up the scallop pattern and even out the stitches. Lay flat to dry, gently shaping the scallops.

Your Coastal Dune set is now complete. Wear the hat with the brim folded for a classic look, and wrap the cowl once or twice for cozy, textured warmth. Enjoy the serene, windswept beauty you have created.