The ribbing in the hat contains a secret message in binary. Originally, this hat was designed so that ribbing pattern would vary depending on your message, but since this is a March for Science hat, I’m spelling out specific variations: SCIENCE! and Science is real.

Every ASCII character is coded by 8 digits of binary, so each letter of the hat’s message becomes 8 stitches, and whether the stitch is a knit or a purl depends on if the binary shows a one or a zero. It’s a great pattern for beginners who have knit and purl down cold and want to try using DPNs (or Magic Loop, or two circulars) and easy decreases.

Variation information is also included in case you want to spell out your own message or want to pussify your hat.

SCIENCE! uses heavier weight yarn at 3.5 sts/inch and comes sized for Small to fit 20in/51cm circumference, Medium to fit 22in/56cm circumference, and Large to fit 24in/61cm circumference. (Finished hats are smaller because of negative ease. Hats fit snugly.)

Science is real user lighter weight yarn at 6 sts/inch and comes sized for Small to fit 21in/53.5cm circumference, Medium to fit 22.5in/57cm circumference, and Large to fit 24in/61cm circumference. (Finished hats are smaller because of negative ease. Hats fit snugly.)