Pixel Pop Knit Hat – Free Mosaic Slip Stitch Knitting…
A Colorful Stash-Busting Knit Hat You’ll Love
Got leftover yarn piling up in your bins, baskets, and tote bags? 🎨 The Pixel Pop Knit Hat is the perfect stash-busting knitting pattern to transform scraps into something fun, wearable, and oh-so-stylish.
This free mosaic knit hat pattern uses slip-stitch colorwork—which means you only work with one color per round. No juggling multiple strands or stressing over floats like stranded colorwork.
Just knit, slip,
switch colors, and
watch the pixelated magic appear.
Whether you stick to three colors or go all in with seven (or more!), every version turns out unique. Plus, the folded double brim adds extra warmth and coziness—perfect for chilly days or holiday gifting.
👉 If you love quick, colorful, and customizable projects, this is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. To learn more please visit my privacy policy here💖
Why You’ll Love the Pixel Pop Knit Hat
✔️ Perfect stash-busting knitting pattern – use small amounts of leftover yarn
✔️ Advanced beginner friendly mosaic knitting pattern – no complicated floats
✔️ Nine sizes included – from baby to adult large
✔️ Cozy knit hat pattern with folded brim
✔️ Works beautifully in any worsted weight yarn
✔️ Optional pom pom + leather tag for a polished finish
What is Mosaic Knitting?
If you’ve never tried mosaic knitting before, this hat is a great place to start. Mosaic colorwork uses slipped stitches to create bold geometric patterns while only working with one color per round.
- No tangling yarns behind your work
- Crisp, pixel-like designs with minimal fuss
- A fantastic way to explore color without the intimidation of stranded knitting
Want to see it in action? I’ve got a full step-by-step video tutorial: How to Knit the Pixel Pop Hat.
Yarn Choice & Substitutions
The sample uses KnitPicks Swish Worsted (a soft superwash merino), but this pattern works beautifully with almost any worsted weight yarn.
Try these stash-friendly and accessible alternatives:
- Herrschners Worsted Heathers – affordable wool blend
- Herrschners Worsted 8 Neon Lights Yarn – bright and colorful (especially for kids’ hats)
- Brava Tweed – easy-care premium acrylic
- Berroco Vintage– budget-friendly wool blend
- Twill – Splurge on fantastic yarn that you will absolutely LOVE knitting with!
💡 Pro Tip: Acrylic yarns are great for durability and easy care, while wool and blends add warmth and stretch.
Stash Yarn From Previous Events and Projects?
Did you participate in any of these recent Marly Bird Events?
If you answered YES to any of those, chances are you’ve got a little yarn left in your stash. Maybe a lot of yarn. 😅 Don’t worry—The Pixel Pop Knit Hat is the perfect way to put it to good use!
Sizing Details
This free baby to adult knit hat pattern comes in nine sizes:
- 0–3 mo
- 3–6 mo
- 6–12 mo
- 1–3 yr
- 3–5 yr
- 6–10 yr
- Teen/Adult Small
- Adult Medium
- Adult Large
That makes it perfect for:
🎁 Holiday gifts
👨👩👧 Matching family hats
🛍 Market prep (unique, colorful hats are always crowd-pleasers!)
🎁 Upgrade to the Ad-Free PDF Pattern
Want to skip the ads and enjoy a beautifully formatted pattern? The ad-free PDF includes:
- Instructions for Worsted weight yarn
- Easy-to-follow written instructions
- Exclusive Access to videos instructions
- Charts
📌 Get the Pixel Pop Knit Hat Ad Free PDF
(Access inside the Marly Bird House with unlimited viewing and bonus material)
Looking for Matching Mittens?
🧤✨ The Pixel Pop Knit Mittens are HERE ✨🧤
If you loved the Pixel Pop Hat, you’re going to flip your stitch markers over the matching mittens! These mosaic colorwork mittens are:
🧶 Written for 6 sizes (baby to adult XL)
🎨 Made with worsted weight yarn scraps
🧵 Easier than they look thanks to slip-stitch mosaic knitting!
Whether you want to make a matching set or just love a good stash buster, now’s the perfect time to grab the pattern.
🛒 Grab it on your favorite platform:
💻 Shopify: https://shop.marlybird.com/products/pixel-pop-knit-mitten-pattern
🧶 Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pixel-pop-knit-mittens
🧵 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/460tFBs
More Mosaic & Colorwork Hat Patterns
If you enjoy the Pixel Pop Knit Hat, you’ll also love these free patterns here on MarlyBird.com:
- Twilight Trails Knit Mosaic Hat
- Falling Leaves Mosaic Knit Hat
- Northern Gleam Hat
- Roy G. Biv Hat
- Harmony Hues Knit Hat
And if you’re in the mood for even more projects: Explore 100+ Free Knitting Patterns.
✨ Pixel Pop Knit Hat – Free Pattern Details
Designed by: Marly Bird
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Sizes: 0–3 mo (3–6 mo, 6–12 mo, 1–3 yr, 3–5 yr, 6–10 yr, Teen/Adult S, Adult M, Adult L)
Finished Measurements
Brim Circumference (stretchable):
12 (14¼, 16, 17½, 18½, 19, 20, 21, 22¼)”
[30.5 (36, 40.5, 44.5, 47, 48.5, 51, 53.5, 56.5) cm]
Gauge
20 sts = 4” [10 cm] in Mosaic Slip Stitch pattern
Materials
Yarn
Worsted weight yarn in 3, 5, or 7 colors, approximately 100–250 yds [91.5-228.5 m] depending on size and number of colors used
- Colors A & B (Brim Colors): 50g each
- Colors C, D, E, F, and G (Body Colors): 25g – 50g each
Note: The pattern will still work with even more colors, but will lose the repeating effect. It can also work with an even rather than odd number of colors; this will make each color look more vertically stacked, rather than alternating and woven.
Yarn used on Sample:
KnitPicks Swish Worsted (100% Superwash Merino Wool, 110 yds / 100 m, 1 ¾ oz/ 50 g, CYCA# 4 worsted) – 1 ball each
- Color A #26070 Green Tea
- Color B #24094 Marine Heather
- Color C #C28646 Voyage Heather
- Color D #C28656 Arctic
- Color E #C24097 Indigo Heather
- Color F #C28647 Haze Heather
- Color G #C28650 Karma Heather
Needles
U.S. 8 [5 mm] 16” circular needles and set of 5 double-pointed needles, or size to obtain gauge.
Notions
Faux Fur Pom (optional)
Tapestry needle Leather tag (optional)
ABBREVIATIONS
- K – Knit
- KFB – Knit into the front and back of the same stitch (see Special Stitches)
- P – Purl
- Pm – Place Marker
- RS – Right Side
- Sl – Slip
- Slm – Slip Marker
- Ssk – Slip, Slip, Knit (see Special Stitches)
- WS – Wrong Side
- Wyib – With Yarn in Back
- Wyif – With Yarn in Front
SPECIAL STITCHES
⭐️ Kfb (Knit Front & Back): Knit through front and back of next stitch – 1 stitch increased.
⭐️ Ssk (Slip, Slip, Knit): Slip 2 stitches, one at a time, as if to knit. Insert left hand needle into the front of these two stitches and knit them together from this position (1 stitch decreased)
PATTERN STITCHES
1 x 1 Rib
Worked circularly over an even number of sts.
Every Round: * K1, p1; repeat from * around.
Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern (circular)
Worked circularly over a multiple of 4 sts.Setup Round: Knit.
Change to next color.
Rounds 1–2: * K3, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * around.
Change to next color.
Rounds 3–4 (next color): * K1, sl 1 wyib, k2; repeat from * around.
Repeat Rounds 1-4 for Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, being sure ro change to the next color every 2 rounds.
Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern (flat)
Worked flat over a multiple of 4 sts plus 2.
Note: Hat is worked entirely in the round. The flat version of Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern is given here for purposes of measuring gauge.
Setup Row (WS): Purl.
Change to next color.
Row 1 (RS): K1, * k3, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * to last st, k1.
Row 2: P1, * sl 1 wyif, p3; repeat from * to last st, p1.
Change to next color.
Row 3: K1, * k1, sl 1 wyib, k2; repeat from * to last st, k1.
Row 4: P1, * p2, sl 1 wyif, p1; repeat from * to last st, p1.
Repeat Rows 1-4 for Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, being sure ro change to the next color every 2 rows.
CHARTS
Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, circular, 3 colors: https://www.stitchfiddle.com/en/c/sh9tcf-6n4a90
Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, circular, 7 colors: https://www.stitchfiddle.com/en/c/sh9tgi-dydamq
Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, flat, 3 colors: https://www.stitchfiddle.com/en/c/sh9tea-97wfuo
NOTES
- Directions are for the smallest size; changes for larger sizes are in parentheses. When only one number is given then that number applies to all sizes.
- Hat is worked in the round from the Brim up.
- The Brim is worked in 1×1 Rib, then folded for a double layer.
- A setup round increases the stitch count before the colorwork section begins.
- Mosaic colorwork uses slip stitches, and only one color is used per round.
- Crown shaping is fast and maintains visual rhythm.
VIDEO TUTORIALS
- Long-Tail Cast-On >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEGwt4cedLM <<
- Knit Stitch (continental style) >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3brKFKg5Yc <<
- Purl Stitch (continental style) >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuDt-8jqh4g <<
- KFB (Knit Front & Back) >> https://youtu.be/k9rWymMDxgM <<
- How to Add Lifeline >> https://youtu.be/FiqYUE_aHAw <<
- How to Add Faux Pom Pom >> https://youtu.be/tl0sa3A_v38 <<
- How to Tink >> https://youtu.be/c7Gud7k4Y8k <<
- How to Bury Ends >> https://youtu.be/8_NBGUKjO-E <<
- How to Knit the Pixel Pop Hat >> https://youtu.be/3MK9DUkZxQQ <<
Pixel Pop Hat Pattern Instructions – Worsted Weight
BRIM
With Color A and circular needles, cast on 72 (84, 96, 104, 112, 116, 120, 128, 132) sts.
Place marker and join round, being careful to not twist cast-on edge.
Work in 1 x 1 Rib for 1¼ (1¼, 1½, 1½, 1½, 1¾, 2, 2, 2)” [3 (3, 4, 4, 4, 4.5, 5, 5, 5) cm].
Change to B.
Next Round: Knit.
Work in 1 x 1 Rib for the same number of rounds as in the first ribbed section, then work 2 additional rounds.
Choose which brim you want for your hat and follow those instructions
✨ Optional Single Brim
Change to A.
Next Round: Knit
Continue to the Body.
✨ Optional Double Brim
Fold Brim to the wrong side so the cast on row is next to the row on the needles, and join the cast on edge to the working round as follows:
Change to A.
Next Round: * Insert right needle into next st on left needle and into the corresponding cast-on st at the same time and knit these two sts together; repeat from * for each st around.
Continue to the Body.
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I’m thrilled to share this amazing pattern with you, many patterns on my blog are absolutely free! I kindly request that you don’t copy and paste or distribute this pattern. Prefer an ad-free experience? Buy a digital PDF pattern for a small fee from one of my online stores for a seamless crafting journey.
I appreciate your support and readership. You are the reason I can keep doing what I love and sharing it with others. So, thank you from the bottom of my yarn-loving heart! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links at no cost to you.
BODY
Place 11 increase markers spaced as evenly as possible around needle, being sure to distinguish them from beginning-of-round marker.
Set-Up Round: With A, * k to marker, kfb, slip marker, repeat from * to last st before beginning-of-round marker, kfb.
Count: 84 (96, 108, 116, 124, 128, 132, 140, 144) sts.
Remove increase markers.
Change to next color and work in Mosaic Slip-Stitch Colorwork pattern starting with Round 1, until Hat measures 5¼ (5¾, 6¼, 7¼, 7¾, 8¼, 8¼, 8¾, 8¾)” [13.5 (14.5, 16, 18.5, 19.5, 21, 21, 22, 22) cm] from fold of Brim.
End after a Mosaic Slip-Stitch Colorwork pattern Round 4.
CROWN SHAPING
Note: Change to double pointed needles when sts become too snug to fit around the circular.
Change to next color.
Round 1: * K3, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * around.
Round 2: * K1, ssk, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * around.
Count: 21 (24, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36) sts decreased
Count: 63 (72, 81, 87, 93, 96, 99, 105, 108) sts remain
Change to next color.
Round 3: * K1, sl 1 wyib, K1; repeat from * around.
Shift Marker: Remove start-of-round marker, slip 1 st, replace marker.
Round 4 (decrease round): * Sl 1 wyib, ssk; repeat from * around.
Count: 21 (24, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36) sts decreased
Count: 42 (48, 54, 58, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72) sts remain
Change to next color.
Round 5: * K1, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * around.
Round 6 (decrease round): * Ssk; repeat from * around.
Count: 21 (24, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36) sts decreased
Count: 21 (24, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36) sts remain
Change to next color.
Round 7: Knit.
Round 8 (decrease round): * Ssk; repeat from * to last 1 (0, 1, 1, 1, 0, 1, 1, 0) sts, k1 (0, 1, 1, 1, 0, 1, 1, 0).
Count: 10 (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16, 17, 18) sts decreased
Count: 11 (12, 14, 15, 16, 16, 17, 18, 18) sts remain
FINISHING
Break yarn, thread tail on tapestry needle, and draw through all remaining sts knitwise.
Pull tight like a drawstring to close.
Weave in all loose ends on WS.
Sew on optional pom pom and/or tag.
Are You BiCrafty? 🧶✨
If you’re both a knitter and a crocheter (what I like to call BiCrafty), you’ll be excited to know there’s also a crochet version of this hat! The Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat uses the same playful, stash-busting idea but is designed with easy crochet colorwork. So whether you knit, crochet, or do both, you can make a Pixel Pop for every head in the family.
The Pixel Pop Knit Hat is proof that a little yarn can go a long way. Whether you’re pulling from your leftovers to create a one-of-a-kind stash-busting knitting project, or planning a perfectly coordinated color palette, this hat is equal parts practical and playful. With its folded brim, bold mosaic design, and easy slip-stitch technique, it’s the kind of project that looks advanced but is totally achievable—even if this is your first colorwork hat.
I can’t wait to see the color combos you choose! Be sure to share your Pixel Pop Knit Hat on social media and tag me @themarlybird with hashtags #MarlyBird and #MMMDI (Marly Made Me Do It) so we can cheer each other on.
And don’t stop here—if you loved this design, be sure to check out my other free knitting patterns for even more stash-busting inspiration. After all, the best projects are the ones that bring joy to your needles, your wardrobe, and your yarn shelves. 💕
❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pixel Pop Knit Hat?
The Pixel Pop is a free mosaic slip stitch colorwork knit hat pattern by Marly Bird. It uses a bold, modern pixel-inspired geometric design worked in two colors using simple slip stitch techniques… so you only ever work with one color per row, making it way more approachable than traditional stranded colorwork. It was the featured knitting pattern in Marly’s “This or That Make-Along 2025” stash-busting event.
What skill level is the Pixel Pop Hat?
It’s designed for advanced beginners and beyond… if you’re comfortable knitting in the round and reading a simple chart, you’re ready. Mosaic/slip stitch colorwork is genuinely one of the most beginner-friendly ways to do colorwork knitting because you’re only working one yarn at a time. No carrying floats, no managing two strands simultaneously. Just knit and slip. The geometric pattern is clear and satisfying to work through.
What makes mosaic slip stitch colorwork different from Fair Isle?
In Fair Isle (stranded colorwork), you carry both colors across every row and knit with each as needed. Mosaic or slip stitch colorwork uses just ONE color per row… stitches from the other color are slipped (passed without knitting) to create the pattern. This makes it significantly simpler to manage. No floats, no tangled yarns, no tension issues from carrying yarn across the back. Same beautiful geometric effect, much simpler execution. It’s a fantastic gateway to colorwork knitting.
What yarn should I use for the Pixel Pop Hat?
Worsted weight yarn in two colors with good contrast is the way to go. The pixel pattern needs a clear light-dark distinction for the design to read crisply. A smooth, plied yarn gives you the best stitch definition so those geometric shapes pop. Wool or a wool blend is ideal for a hat… it’s warm, blocks nicely, and has good elasticity. But a smooth acrylic works too and gives you a machine-washable finished hat.
Can I make the Pixel Pop Hat in any colors?
Yes! The pattern is flexible with color choices as long as you maintain good contrast between your two colors. Classic combinations like cream and navy, black and white, or a neutral with a bold pop color all look stunning. The pixel-inspired design means almost any two-color combo with sufficient contrast works… the geometric pattern does the work. This is a great opportunity to use up leftover worsted weight from your stash.
Marly,
I was truly excited about this knit along, and had gathered all of my stash yarn to use for this project. I paid for this pattern several days ago, fully expecting to be able print out the pattern to follow along with the video.
The only way to print it is to again pay for the PDF upgrade. This should be the case, asking you customers to pay twice to have a printable version of the pattern.
I am not happy at the moment. Please let me know how I can get access to the pattern that I paid for.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
Christine Roach
Waxhaw, NC
Christine, You don’t have to purchase again at all. Your patterns, both the worsted weight version and the sport weight version, are inside your Marly Bird House account. When you purchased you received instructions for how to access your account. But to make sure you know how, here you go:
TO ACCESS YOUR PRODUCT FOLLOW THESE STEPS!
➡️ The product is placed inside your Marly Bird House Account. The first time logging in to your account, the username and password will be the same email address you used to purchase the product.
Note: if you already have a Marly Bird House account, simply use your login credentials to login to your account.
If you purchased with a different email than that which is attached to your existing account, please contact customer support and they can help you get them connected.
➡️ Once logged in, you will be able to view all the products you’ve purchased.
✨For further assistance or help with your order, please contact contact@marlybird.com✨
Why can’t I see the free pattern? I subscribed to the grow thingy and I keep getting an error message that subscription failed. I don’t have a lot and can’t afford to pay for the pattern. Do I have to search for the pattern in the grow thingy? I can’t find a search on the website. Can you help me out?
I am so sorry, apparently with the new IOS update, Grow is not working properly. I am going to temporarily remove Grow from the pattern.