WWII Navy Watch Cap Knitting Pattern Free

This knitted watch cap, also known as a stocking cap, was approved for official use during WWII for the Navy and Coast Guard. The navy watch cap was originally issued in dark blue or black and was worn under the steel military helmet. This dense knitted stocking cap keeps the head warm by itself or is worn under a hood for stormy weather gear.

This free WWII Navy Watch Cap Pattern knits up in no time. It is a quick and easy knitted stocking cap pattern. One size fits most adults and older children.

Materials:

4 ounces Knitting Worsted Yarn (Keep in mind that 100% wool will shrink if placed in the dryer. When using wool yarn, allow the hat to air dry. Consider using an acrylic/wool mix or acrylic yarn, especially for people allergic to wool.)

4 double pointed knitting needles - size 3

Gauge: 15 stitches equals 2 inches

Directions:

Cast on 140 stitches onto one needle. Do not divide them onto the three other needles yet.

First Row: * Knit 1, purl 1; repeat from * to the end.

Second Row: * Purl 1, knit 1; repeat from * to the end.

Repeat these two rows twice.

Divide the stitches onto three needles as follows: 46 stitches on the first two needles and 48 stitches onto the third needle.

Join and work around in ribbing of Knit 1, Purl 1 for 12 inches.

Knit each round for 1 inch.

Break the yarn, leaving about 12 inches and draw the thread through all the stitches with a darning needle. Gather the stitches as tightly as possible, and then sew them firmly together to close the opening at the top of the navy watch cap completely. The stocking cap will have a pleated effect at the top.

Sew the ends of the border together.

That's it. This WWII Navy Watch Cap is perfect for all kinds of foul weather. Be creative, adding stripes, different colors to match a jacket or mittens, and a pom-pom at the top for younger children.

I have knitted so many of these Navy Watch Caps through the years. The stocking cap is a versatile, warm winter hat that never goes out of style. This WWII Watch Cap pattern was given to me over 30 years ago and I knit new winter caps every year.

Hope your family stays warm this winter with a homemade, authentic knitted WWII Navy Watch Cap.

Resource: My personal knitting patterns