Quick Knitting Patterns: Afternoon Delight Hat and Cowl Set

You can end the old year, or start the new one, off with great satisfaction when you choose instant gratification knitting projects. Of course, quick knitting patterns are useful to have on hand all year long. Whether you just want to feel good because you accomplished something beautiful or you have a last-minute gift to give for a birthday or holiday, quick knitting projects do the trick. The Afternoon Delight set is perfect; both the hat and the cowl work up quickly. Together, they make an unforgettable accessories set.

Stashbusting / Scrap Yarn Projects

One of the best things about these quick knitting patterns is that they’re designed to use up scrap yarn. Therefore, you already have the yarn in your stash. Chances are that you even know exactly where you’re storing it. You can go to that closet or shelf or basket or bin and dig it out right now. Grab matching needles and you’re ready to go. You don’t have to spend time shopping or hunting for the perfect yarn because you already have it. This makes getting going on an instant gratification knitting project as easy as can be.

Finish 2 Quick Knitting Patterns In One Day

There’s a reason that this knit pattern set is called Afternoon Delight. No, it’s not because of the double entendre. It’s because you can make each of these patterns in a single afternoon. Therefore, you can quickly craft the full set in one day. Of course, if you only have a few hours, then you can choose either the cowl or the hat to make first. Make the other one the next time you need an instant gratification project. Either of these is great on its own even though they are more special as a cohesive set.

Afternoon Delight Quickie Knit Cowl and Hat Patterns

The Afternoon Delight Quickie Knit Cowl and Hat pattern set is available as two separate patterns. Both patterns are free on the website. Additionally, both are available on Ravelry for purchase if you prefer ad-free versions (or just want to support designers since that’s how we make our living!)

Get the quick knitting patterns:

Afternoon Delight Quickie Knit Cowl Free Patter

Get the Afternoon Delight Quickie Knit Cowl Pattern

Afternoon Delight Quickie Knit Hat Free Pattern

Get the Afternoon Delight Quickie Knit Hat Pattern

Basics About These Quick Knitting Patterns

Here are a few basic things you might want to know about the Afternoon Delight Quickie Knit Cowl and Hat Patterns:

  • Yarn: You’ll use seven different colors of Aran weight yarn to complete this project. Of course, you can always use fewer or more colors if you want variation in the striping compared with the original project. If you use DK or worsted weight scrap yarn, adjust your needles to fit the gauge.
  • Knitting Needles: You’ll use US 9 – 5.5 mm 24″ knitting needles to complete the cowl. The hat uses both US 9 – 5.5 mm and US 7 – 4.5mm 16″ needles. Again, though, adapt that as necessary for correct gauge.
  • Cast-On: You’ll cast-on 90 for the hat and 120 for the knit cowl.
  • Stitch Pattern: This stitch pattern is a multiple of 10 sts and 12 rounds for both quick knitting patterns.
  • Special Stitches: The knit hat pattern has more special stitches than the knit cowl pattern. In both, you’ll use slip stitch and work with yarn in front, but in the hat pattern you’ll also have the opportunity to Center Double Decrease, Knit Two Together and Slip, Slip, Knit.

You Might Also Like:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really finish both the hat and cowl in one afternoon?

Yes! That’s why they’re called the “Afternoon Delight” set. Honestly, you can knock out each project in a single afternoon, so the whole set is totally doable in a day… especially if you’re just looking for that instant gratification!

Are these patterns good for using up my scrap yarn stash?

Oh, absolutely! So here’s the thing… these patterns are designed with your stash in mind. You can probably dig out the perfect yarn right now from your closet or wherever you keep your treasures, which makes starting a project super easy.

Do I need special yarn for this set?

Well, the original called for seven colors of Aran weight yarn, but you can totally mix it up! Feel free to use more or fewer colors for a different look, or even use DK or worsted weight scraps if you adjust your needles to get the right gauge.

Are the patterns free?

Yes! You can get both the hat and cowl patterns for free right here on the website. If you prefer an ad-free PDF version or just want to support the designer, you can also purchase them on Ravelry.

What knitting needles should I use?

For the cowl, you’ll want US size 9 (5.5mm) 24″ needles. The hat uses both US size 9 (5.5mm) and US size 7 (4.5mm) 16″ needles. But remember, these are just suggestions… always adjust your needles to get the correct gauge for your yarn!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Person displays a vibrant Tunisian crochet scarf, highlighting its colorful stitch detail; accessories on shelves behind.

The One and Only, Marly

Marly is a knitwear and crochet designer (and yarn addict) that is here to help you learn how to knit and crochet in a way that's fun and approachable.

Meet Marly

Knitting & Crochet Projects for Every Mood" in pink and blue fonts on a light background.
A white bird with pink accents crochets a textured blue scarf with blue needles, seated in a green armchair.

Netflix & Chill

Simple projects for when you want to relax and zone out

Amigurumi turkey with white body, pink accents, and tail feathers in blue, green, yellow, orange, red, and purple. White background.

Social Butterfly

Frustration-free projects that you can easily work on in public areas

Crocheted bird amigurumi with pink wings, curled lines, flower details, and outstretched limbs; Tunisian crochet texture.

Smooth Jazz

Projects that require a bit more intense focus (but music is nice!)

A decorative bird amigurumi with floral patterns, knitting needles, notepad, and pink flower details in Tunisian crochet style.

Shhh Be Quiet!

Advanced projects requiring deep focus (but a big payoff, too!)