The Cargo Cap: A cosy, customisable knit for every season

If there’s one thing knitters love, it’s a project that’s equal parts practical and satisfying. The Cargo Cap ticks all the boxes: it’s warm, stylish, and—perhaps best of all—quick to knit. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or picking up your needles for the first time in a while, this chunky, ribbed beanie is the perfect project to ease into your next creative adventure.

But let’s talk about what makes this pattern truly special.

Why you'll love the Cargo Cap

Designed by the talented Malia Mae Joseph, the Cargo Cap takes a classic ribbed beanie and gives it a subtle twist—literally. Knitted from the top down, this method allows you to customise the length to your heart’s content. Want a snug, fitted look? Stop early. Prefer a relaxed, slouchy vibe? Keep going!

Even better, it’s a fantastic stash-buster. The top-down construction means you can use up every last bit of your yarn, leaving no awkward leftovers behind. And when that yarn is West Wool’s Cargo—a sumptuously soft, 100% Merino wool—you’ll want to savour every stitch.

The perfect yarn: West Wool Cargo

This hat was designed specifically for West Wool Cargo, a chunky-weight Merino wool yarn that offers warmth, bounce, and an ultra-satisfying squish factor. Available in a range of beautifully rich colours, you can choose from sophisticated neutrals like Meerkat and Polar Bear, or go bold with vibrant hues like Grapefruit and Minty.

Cargo’s plush texture enhances the cap’s signature 2x2 ribbing, making it both visually striking and wonderfully elastic. Plus, its high-quality Merino fibres ensure the cap is as cosy as it is stylish—perfect for chilly commutes, mountain getaways, or just a breezy autumn afternoon.

Is it difficult to make?

The Cargo Cap is a great project for knitters of all levels. If you’ve never tried knitting a hat from the top down before, this is the perfect introduction. The pattern includes simple increases to shape the crown and then transitions into a rhythmic, meditative ribbed pattern that flies off the needles.

You'll start with a magic loop cast-on, which might sound tricky if you've never done it before—but don’t worry! There are plenty of video tutorials available to guide you through the process (check out the link below in the pattern).

Once you’re past the crown shaping, it’s smooth sailing with the ribbing. And because the length is customisable, you can decide exactly when you want to stop—no stressful measuring required!

How to style your Cargo Cap

This beanie is a wardrobe staple. Wear it folded up for a classic fisherman’s beanie look, or leave it slouchy for a more relaxed, modern vibe. Either way, its simple yet stylish design makes it the ideal complement to any outfit.

Now that we’ve covered why this hat belongs in your knitting queue, let’s get to what you came for—the pattern itself!

Cargo Cap knitting pattern

Materials

Yarn: West Wool Cargo (100% Merino Wool, 109 yds / 100m per 100g skein)
- Sample shown in: Grapefruit, Minty, Meerkat, Polar Bear
Needles: US 10.5 / 6.5 mm circular (40” / 100 cm) or size needed to obtain gauge. You can use DPNs if preferred.
Notions: Stitch marker, tapestry needle, crochet hook.