The Equilibrium Beanie is a fresh, modern hat built from simple equilateral triangles that come together in a really satisfying way. This is a modular knit, where each triangle is knit and joined as you go, creating a bold, graphic strip that becomes the base of the hat. From there, you pick up stitches along the edges and work upward, so the hat grows out of that geometric foundation—an unexpected construction that’s as fun to knit as it is to wear. Use your ribber to knit a 2x2 ribbed brim, or opt for the ribberless mock ribbed trim.
 
Inside each triangle, a 2x2 Fair Isle pattern adds texture and interest, with the stripes meeting at clean, angled lines. You can go bold with high-contrast colors, keep things soft and subtle, or introduce an unexpected pop - the color choices really help define the look of the finished piece.
 
Instructions are written for one size, designed to fit an average adult-sized head with a 22" (56cm) circumference. The finished hat has about 1" (2.5cm) of negative ease.
 
While knitting this beanie, you’ll have the opportunity to practice some different machine knitting techniques including:
 
modular knitting
picking up and knitting off of selvage edges as well as live stitches
invisibly increasing multiple times within a row
knitted-on, foldover trims (at neckline and cuffs)
decreasing in fairisle pattern
short row shaping (to knit the crown)
seam-as-you-knit technique
attaching ribbed hems
color planning and/or liberation
 
This pattern is a 17 page PDF with detailed instructions, including technique explanations, some step-by-step photo tutorials, and a short row chart.
 
The recommended yarn is Cascade 220 Fingering, 100% Peruvian Highland Wool
 
The yarn requirements are:
MC (used for crown and ribbing): 20 grams
CC for Triangles: 32 grams
     Each triangle uses 4g of yarn (total) between 2 colors
 
Or select an equivalent yarn that knits up to the specified gauge of 28 stitches and 44 rows in stockinette and 34 stitches and 41 rows in fair isle over 4” (10cm). 
 
The Beanie is knit in 3 sections. The modular triangle band is knitted first (8 triangles in total), followed by the brim (options included for 2x2 or mock rib). The solid crown is last - knit sideways and formed through a series of short row wedges, attached to the top of the triangle band using a seam-as-you-knit technique. For finishing techniques include Kitchener and mattress stitch.
 
Play with high contrast or subtle color shifts, allowing color to become part of the fabric architecture.
 
Pattern Rating: Advanced Beginner/Intermediate (this pattern has been tested)
 
I'd love to see what you knit! Use #equilibriumbeanie on Instagram and tag me @rebeccayaker
 
Add your finished Equilibrium Beanie to your Ravelry project page