Action Potential Hat

The Action Potential Hat is a celebration of science, nerdery, and self-expression. An action potential is the rapid depolarization of the membrane of a neuron, carrying an electrical signal down the length of the cell and causing the transmission of the signal across the synapse to other cells. This hat depicts a classic image of a neuron, including a cell body, a myelinated axon, and an axon terminal. This design is a representation of the intersection of my love for science and knitting and is a perfect way to let your inner nerd shine!

This top down hat is knit in syncopated brioche with the design created through increase/decrease patterns and a few cables. As always, tutorial videos are linked for these techniques. The instructions are provided in both written and charted form.

Finished Measurements:
19 in/47.5 cm unstretched circumference x 8.5 in/21.5 cm brim to crown height

Yarn:
Fingering Weight
Color A: 120 yds/110 m
Color B: 120 yds/110 m
Sample shown in Harrisville Designs Shetland (100% Virgin Wool; 217 yds/198 m in 50g) in Silver Mist (A) and Black Cherry (B)

Gauge:
20 stitches x 29 rows = 4in/10cm in 2 color brioche rib after gentle blocking; see note about counting rounds

Needles:
16-in US 3/3.25 mm circular needle, or size needed to obtain gauge
16-in US 2.5/3.0 mm circular needle
US 3/3.25 mm double pointed needles (DPNs) or preferred needles to knit small circumferences in size needed to obtain gauge

Notions:
• Crochet hook, size E or smaller
• Locking stitch markers/cable needles
• Stitch markers
• Darning needle