The Shell & Heydon pattern by Quail Studio for Mode at Rowan is a cosy accessory set designed for quick, wearable knitting.
Shell is a pair of ribbed mittens knitted in the round on double pointed needles, while Heydon is a simple ribbed beanie that can be worked either flat or in the round. The hat can also be knitted in a solid shade or in a two-colour combination, making this pattern especially versatile for knitters who want a coordinated winter set with a modern feel. Both designs use Mode at Rowan Alpaca Cotton, a featherlight alpaca and cotton blend with a soft halo and airy texture.
Pattern Details
• Designed by Quail Studio for Mode at Rowan
• Includes two patterns: Shell mittens and Heydon hat
• Shell mittens are worked in the round
• Heydon hat can be worked flat or in the round
• Hat can be made in a solid shade or two-colour combination
• Ribbed texture throughout for warmth and stretch
• A practical matching set for cooler weather
Skill Level
Beginner to Intermediate
A great project for knitters comfortable with ribbing, shaping, and working with double pointed needles. The mittens are a quick circular knit, while the hat gives the option of flat or in-the-round construction.
Sizing
Shell Mittens
One size, to fit an average woman’s hand
Approx. 23 cm long
Heydon Hat
One size
Approx. 38 cm circumference
Recommended Yarn (Official Pairing)
This pattern is designed to be knitted using Mode at Rowan Alpaca Cotton.
Knit This Pattern With
Mode at Rowan Alpaca Cotton Yarn
A featherlight alpaca cotton blend with a soft halo and airy feel, ideal for lightweight winter accessories.
• 57% Alpaca / 43% Cotton
• 25g ball
• Approx. 120 metres per ball
• Soft, breathable and warm without bulk
• Perfect for accessories, hats, mittens and lightweight garments
👉 Shop the yarn:
https://www.directsewing.co.nz/products/mode-rowan-alpaca-cotton-yarn-nz
Using the recommended yarn helps these projects achieve the intended softness, stretch, and finished look.
Yarn Quantity Guide
| Project | Yarn | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Shell Mittens | Mode at Rowan Alpaca Cotton | 2 balls |
| Heydon Hat, solid colour | Mode at Rowan Alpaca Cotton | 1 ball |
| Heydon Hat, two-colour version | Colour A: 1 ball, Colour B: 1 ball | 2 balls total |
If you are making the full matching set in the same colours shown by Rowan, you will need:
| Shade | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 018 Foliage Green | 3 balls |
| 013 Feather Grey Melange | 1 ball |
This matches Rowan’s own Shell & Heydon bundle, which includes enough yarn for the mittens plus the two-colour hat version.
Choose Your Colour Pairing
Heydon can be knitted in a single shade or in a two-colour combination.
For a clean, coordinated result, choose one main shade for the body of the hat and one contrast shade for the colour-block detail. If you want to recreate the Rowan bundle look, use:
• 018 Foliage Green as the main shade
• 013 Feather Grey Melange as the contrast shade
Needles & Tools Required
Shell Mittens
• 4.50mm double pointed needles
Heydon Hat
• 4.00mm knitting needles for the flat version
• 4.00mm double pointed needles for the in-the-round version
Extras
• Stitch holders
• Stitch markers
• Optional pom pom for the hat
Tension (Gauge)
Shell Mittens
18 stitches x 24 rows = 10 cm in ribbed stitch
Heydon Hat
24 stitches x 27 rows = 10 cm in broken rib
Complete Your Project
For best results, pair this pattern with Mode at Rowan Alpaca Cotton yarn and the recommended needle sizes. If you are making the full set, you may like to choose either a matching solid colour story or a simple two-tone palette for the hat. Everything you need is available at Direct Sewing Machines & Supplies.



