Product Description
As you might have noticed with my other designs, I adore hat patterns where the brim becomes an interesting part of the pattern. This one might take the cake! The 2x2 rib melts into the pattern stitch as the "branches" of the Decision Tree appear.
This texture looks so rich and complicated, but it's much easier than it appears. Instead of using a cable needle, this pattern uses a sequence of k2tog with knit and purl stitches, and it's so fun to make.
Two sizes are available: Adult (S/M) (19" x8.5") and Adult (L/XL) (21" x9").
Includes written and charted instructions.
Decision Tree Toque by NichKnit Designs
What is Being Made
The Decision Tree Toque is a knitted hat designed for adult wearers in two finished sizes: Adult Small/Medium measuring 19 inches in circumference by 8 inches in height, and Adult Large/Extra Large measuring 21 inches in circumference by 9 inches in height. This is a beginner-friendly knitting project that creates a warm, fitted winter hat suitable for everyday wear.
Craft and Primary Technique
This project uses knitting as its primary craft method. The hat is constructed using circular knitting techniques, which allows the knitter to work continuously in the round rather than flat. This seamless construction method is ideal for creating fitted garments like toques and results in a smooth, professional finish without requiring seaming.
Stitches and Pattern Details
The Decision Tree Toque features two distinct sections with different stitch patterns:
- Ribbed Brim: The lower portion of the hat uses a modified 2x2 ribbed stitch pattern. This classic ribbing technique alternates between knit and purl stitches in a repeating pattern (k1, p2, k2 sequence), creating vertical columns that provide stretch and help the hat conform snugly to the wearer's head. The ribbed brim extends 1.75 inches on the smaller size and 2.25 inches on the larger size from the cast-on edge.
- Main Section: The upper portion transitions to a pattern sequence based on an 8-stitch, 12-round repeat. This section incorporates cable techniques, specifically a 1/1 right cross (RC or RT), which creates textured, twisted stitches that give the toque visual interest and dimension.
Additional abbreviations used throughout the pattern include ktbl (knit through back loop), which twists stitches for a refined appearance, and standard knitting notations such as k (knit), p (purl), and rnd (round).
Materials and Tools Required
Yarn: This pattern calls for worsted or Aran weight yarn, a medium-weight option ideal for creating fabric with good drape and warmth. The yardage requirement is 150 to 210 yards total, making this a relatively quick project that uses minimal yarn.
Needles: The pattern requires US size 7 (4.5 mm) needles in two formats: a 16-inch circular needle for working the body of the hat in the round, and a set of double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the crown decreases when the stitch count becomes too small for the circular needle.
Additional Notions: A darning needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends and finishing the garment. Stitch markers help indicate the beginning of each round during circular knitting.
Gauge and Sizing
The pattern is worked at a gauge of 20 stitches per 4 inches (10 centimeters) when measured over the stitch pattern. Accurate gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions. The cast-on stitch count varies by size: 96 stitches for the Adult Small/Medium and 112 stitches for the Adult Large/Extra Large.
Difficulty Level
This project is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to circular knitting or those looking to expand their skills. While the pattern includes cable techniques and circular knitting methods, the straightforward construction and clear instructions make it accessible to those with basic knitting knowledge.
```Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | Worsted |
| Pages: | 5 |
| Designer: | NichKnit Designs |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Beginner |
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