Elizabeth Zimmermann (August 9, 1910–November 30, 1999), affectionally called EZ by knitters, is practically a goddess among knitters and could easily be dubbed the “Mother of Modern Knitting.” She was a British-born knitter known for revolutionizing the modern practice of knitting through her books and instructional series on American public television.

In designing this hat for my Liberation collection, I very much wanted to honor the great EZ. Red-faced and shaking, I approached Meg Swansen, master knitter, publisher and EZ’s daughter, regarding my idea. To my utter delight, she seemed tickled by the idea and chose this cloche to be her mother’s namesake.

This cloche is an apt namesake for the great EZ­ — its easy, casual style and innovative construction is reminiscent of everything Zimmerman loved about knitting. It is worked in the round, starting at the brim. Once the brim is turned, the rest of the hat is worked straight and then seamed together with the shirred panel.

This pattern is also available as part of Liberation, which can be purchased as a print or ebook.

SIZES/ FINISHED MEASUREMENTS

• Includes instructions for Toddler (Child/XS, S, M, L, XL)
• Head Circumference: Head Circumference: 16.75 (18.5, 19.5, 20.75, 21.5, 22.75)”/ 42.5 (47.5, 49.5, 53, 54.5, 58)cm
• Height: 5.5 (6, 6, 6.75, 7, 7.25)”/ 14 (15.5, 15.5, 17, 18, 18.5)cm

MATERIALS

• Approximately 350 (400, 450, 500, 550, 600) yards of fingering weight yarn (Sample used Sweet Georgia Yarn (100% Superwash Merino, 1.76oz/50g, 185yds/169m); 3 skeins; color: Orchid)
• 1 US 2/ 2.75 mm 16”/ 40cm circular needle, or size to obtain gauge (optional: a second circular needle)
• 1 set US 1/ 2.25mm 16”/ 40cm circular needle, or 1-2 sizes/ 0.5mm smaller than larger needle
• 1 set US 2/ 2.75 mm double-pointed needles (dpns), or size to obtain gauge
• Waste yarn
• Stitch markers; removable stitch markers (optional)
• Tapestry needle

GAUGE

29 sts and 42 rows = 4”/ 10cm in St st. on larger needles

OTHER PATTERN DETAILS

• Available in 6 different sizes
• Pattern has been professionally tested and edited
• Clear, concise instructions with diagrams
• Includes instruction for several accessory options
• Pattern enabled for notations on e-readers