Learn to Knit in the Round: The Barley DK Hat

A cozy, confidence-building project from Tin Can Knits

Ready to level up your knitting? The Barley DK hat knitting pattern by Tin Can Knits is the perfect next step after mastering the knit stitch. This free pattern is part of their Simple Collection and introduces knitters to working in the round while still keeping things simple and fun.

Barley DK is knit from the brim to the crown using circular needles, and features a sweet little garter panel that adds interest without complication. It’s available in 7 sizes from baby to adult large—so once you learn, you can knit one for everyone you know.

Why We Love the Barley DK Hat:

• Free pattern with clear instructions
• Teaches knitting in the round and basic shaping
• Features 7 sizes, so it’s endlessly giftable
• Garter stitch panel adds visual texture with minimal effort
• Supported by 3 helpful blog posts from Tin Can Knits
• Works great in solid, tonal, or speckled DK yarns

Yarn + Sizing

When you’re knitting a hat that’s going to hug your head (or someone else’s), softness matters! Here are three DK yarns we love for this project:

✨ Malabrigo Silky Merino – $10.80/skein
A luxurious blend of merino wool and silk—soft, drapey, and beautifully hand-dyed.
You’ll need 1–2 skeins depending on size.
Shop Silky Merino →

Yarn Citizen Harmony DK – $12/skein
Ethically sourced and milled with a blend of merino and alpaca for the perfect mix of softness, warmth, and stitch definition.
Most sizes need just 1 skein!
Shop Harmony DK →

Hummingbird Hand-Dyed DK – $24/skein
Hand-dyed in vibrant, playful colorways—ideal for unique, giftable hats.
One skein usually does the trick.
Shop Hummingbird DK →

Needles + Tools

Barley DK is knit in the round using a 16″ circular needle plus DPNs or a longer circular for crown shaping (magic loop).

We recommend:

• Lykke Blush 16″ Circulars in US 6 and US 8
• Lykke DPNs or a 32″+ circular for crown shaping
• Don’t forget stitch markers and a tapestry needle!

Learn Along the Way

Tin Can Knits offers three companion blog posts to walk you through the Barley Hat from start to finish. Learn about:

• Choosing yarn and reading a pattern
• Knitting in the round
• Decreasing and finishing your hat

It’s like taking a class—on your time, at your pace.

Get the Barley DK Hat Pattern →
Try the Tin Can Knits App →

Hats are quick, satisfying projects that build skills you’ll use again and again. Barley DK hat pattern is a keeper—and so are the warm heads you’ll wrap it around.