You know that moment when you want to knit something that feels reassuringly classic?
Not basic.
Not trendy.
Classic.
That’s where this year’s Celtic Knits Club begins.
Because sometimes you don’t need a brand-new technique.
You just need beautiful stitch patterns … used well.
This Aran cable hat and cowl knitting pattern for this year’s club, draws it’s inspiration from more traditional stitch patterns and so we called it the Fionbarra Cowl and Hat set.
And I think the use of the natural cream ‘Ban’ colour really shows these stitch patterns off and allows them to shine. Don’t you think so?
This first club installment used our Stolen Stitches ‘Solas’ yarn. It’s a light DK yarn that has 93% Merino, 3.5% Cashmere and 3.5% Silk for a very lightweight, luxurious finished knit.Just take a look at this cowl:
The Fionbarra Cowl – A Snug Aran Cable Cowl
The cowl is worked in the round with lots of fun knitting details. It begins with an Alternating Cable cast-on which flows naturally into the twisted ribbing. The stitch pattern has repeats of different size cables with a main diamond motif cable.
The fitted nature of this cowl allows for a snug fit that tucks very easily inside your coat. The length can be adjust to suit your own personal preferred way of wearing your cowl.
Fionbarra Cowl Pattern Information
SIZES
Small (Large)
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Circumference: 18.5 (22.25)” / 47 (56.5) cm
Sample in small size.
Depth: 8.25” / 21 cm
GAUGE
29 sts and 33 rnds = 4” / 10 cm Diamond Cowl Pattern, blocked
24 sts and 34 rnds = 4” / 10 cm in Twisted Rib Pattern, blocked
YARN
Stolen Stitches ‘Solas’ (93% Merino, 3.5% Cashmere and 3.5% Silk; 243 yds / 222 m per 3.6 oz / 100g); Colour: Ban; 1 skein
Approx Yardage: 188 (225) yds / 171 (206) m
NEEDLES AND NOTIONS
US size 4 / 3.5 mm circular needle, 16” / 40 cm or 32/80 cm for Magic Loop
The Fionbarra Hat – A Folded Brim Cable Hat Pattern
This hat features one of my favourite edge types, a folded brim!
This is created by starting with a provisional cast-on that you then fold inside after the stockinette stitch brim and knit together with your working stitches. It creates a firm and comfortable edge to your hat that looks very elegant.
The cables used in the hat echo the cowl, you can see the same hero diamond cable but it’s divided only by a smaller single cable so that it becomes the main feature of the hat.
Designed for Proper Fit
When choosing your size, select a finished measurement slightly smaller than your head circumference. This ensures negative ease and a secure, comfortable fit.
This is not a slouchy hat. It’s structured, polished, and designed to stay put.
Fionbarra Hat Pattern Details
SIZES
Small (Medium, Large)
To Fit Head Circumference Up To: 21 (23, 25)” / 53 (58.5, 63.5) cm
1-3” / 2.5- 7.5 cm intended negative ease.
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Brim Circumference: 18 (20, 22)” / 45.5 (51, 56) cm
Length To Crown: 8.5 (8.75, 9)” / 21 (22, 23) cm
Sample size Medium modelled with 2.5” / 6.5 cm negative ease.
GAUGE
20 sts and 29 rnds = 4” / 10 cm in St St & Rev St St, blocked
Diamond Cable Pattern meas 1.75” / 4.5 cm across
1/1 RC cable meas 0.25” / 0.75 cm across
YARN
Stolen Stitches ‘Solas’ (93% Merino, 3.5% Cashmere and 3.5% Silk; 243 yds / 222 m per 3.6 oz / 100g); Colour: Ban; 1 skein
Approx Yardage: 152 (174, 197) yds / 139 (159, 180) m
NEEDLES AND NOTIONS
Two US size 4 / 3.5 mm circular needles, 40”/ 100 cm for Magic Loop, or 16” / 40 cm with dpns
Why DK Weight Yarn Works for Cable Knitting
Cables rely on stitch definition. In heavier yarn, detail can get lost and in finer yarn, texture can disappear.
DK weight yarn strikes a balance because it’s structured enough to showcase the cable crossings beautifully, yet light enough to produce a wearable hat and cowl set without excess bulk.
The merino, cashmere, and silk blend in ‘Solas’ enhances that definition while keeping the finished knit soft and lightweight. Perfect for snuggling up in on those colder winter days.
Join the Celtic Knits Club 2026
If you’re searching for an Aran cable hat and cowl knitting pattern that feels rooted in tradition but fits seamlessly into modern wardrobes, Fionbarra offers structure, texture, and wearability in one cohesive set.
If you’ve been wanting a cable project that keeps your interest without overwhelming your evenings…
You can join us in knitting through this set by choosing the digital club option right here.