Turn simple yarn into an anatomically inspired statement piece with this free brain hat knitting pattern from Alana Noritake, a physician and surgeon with a biology background. This textured cap is an absolute hit for classroom teachers reminding kids to put on their “thinking caps,” science fair participants or STEM graduates. Also, it’s a fantastic knit for quirky Halloween costumes!
The foundation is an easy fitted beanie knit up in fingering weight 4-ply yarn. To get a realistic look, pick a dusty pink or slightly variegated tonal yarn. Next comes the fun part: knitting 4 long I-cords! You’ll need two shorter lengths for the frontal lobes and two longer ones for the posterior lobes. If you have an I-cord maker, use it. It won’t be long until you discover hand-knitting miles of cord can get tedious!
Then, pin the cords into random squiggles and winding loops directly onto the cap. Equally important, be sure to leave an open space down the center to mimic the brain’s longitudinal fissure. Once tacked in place, the finished piece looks hilariously smart and realistic. Cast on your base cap, fire up that cord maker, and knit up this clever DIY brain hat for your favorite brainiac!
More knitting fun! Free colorwork knit cover pattern. Fish shaped pouch knitting pattern.