The Bois-de-Coulonge hat

The Bois-de-Coulonge Hat by Jean-Philippe Cliche

What is Being Made

The Bois-de-Coulonge Hat is a knitted hat designed by Jean-Philippe Cliche, sized to fit head circumferences of 55 to 58 cm (21 to 23 inches). This intermediate-level knitting project features a negative ease of 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches), creating a fitted silhouette that hugs the head comfortably. The hat is worked from bottom to top in a classic rib construction.

Techniques and Construction

This hat employs a distinctive mixed-yarn construction technique, combining two different yarn weights worked simultaneously to create texture and visual interest. The primary construction method uses 1x1 ribbing (knit one, purl one) throughout the body of the hat, which provides elasticity and a traditional fitted appearance. The crown shaping is integrated into the design, with decreases worked strategically to form the hat's crown. Knitters have the option to use the magic loop technique for the crown decreases, or alternatively, double-pointed needles can be employed once the stitch count becomes too small for circular needles.

The hat is constructed in the round using circular needles, which is the standard method for seamless hat knitting. Markers are essential tools for tracking pattern repeats and decrease points throughout the project.

Stitches Used

• 1x1 Ribbing (k1, p1): The foundational stitch pattern worked throughout the hat body, alternating knit and purl stitches to create vertical columns of texture
• Decreases: Strategic decreases are worked at the crown to shape the hat's top

Yarn and Materials

The Bois-de-Coulonge Hat uses a unique two-yarn approach. Fingering weight yarn is used as the primary yarn component, with 2 strands knitted together throughout the project. One skein of 100 grams is required, though approximately 80 grams will be used. This is combined with lace weight mohair yarn, also worked with 2 strands held together. One skein of 50 grams is needed, with approximately 35 to 40 grams consumed in the finished hat.

The gauge for this project is 18 stitches and 28 rounds per 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 cm) when working the 1x1 rib pattern unstretched on 4.5 mm (US 7) needles. This gauge is achieved with the two fingering-weight strands and two lace mohair strands held together as one.

Needles and Tools Required

• Circular needles: 40 cm (16 inches) in size 4.5 mm (US 7)
• Double-pointed needles: Size 4.5 mm (US 7) for crown decreases (optional if using magic loop technique)
• Stitch markers: 4 regular markers and 12 removable markers in two colors (6 of each color) for tracking pattern sections and decreases
• Tapestry needle: For weaving in yarn ends

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle projects involving multiple techniques. The combination of working with two yarn weights simultaneously, managing stitch markers for crown shaping, and executing decreases requires intermediate-level competency.