What you'll need
| Head Circumference, cm: | 35.5 | 40.5 | 45.5 | 50.5 | 56 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Knit Picks Swish DK - Merlot
|
1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
|
YAT002
|
1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
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Product Description
Myshka, being Ukrainian for 'little mouse' seemed to suit this sweet little tuque just right. Myshka is knit from the bottom up, starting in back-and-forth rows with a half-linen stitch, then joined in the round and knit in stockinette for the remainder. A button finishes it off quite nicely. Myshka is sized from baby through adult.
Suggested substitute yarn for Knit Picks Swish DK is Artesano Superwash Merino DK. You will only need one or the other of these yarns to complete the project.
Myshka Tuque by Jessie McKitrick
What Is Being Made
The Myshka Tuque is a charming knitted hat designed by Jessie McKitrick. The name "Myshka" derives from Ukrainian, meaning "little mouse," a fitting tribute to this sweet and compact tuque design. This downloadable knitting pattern offers five size options to fit head circumferences ranging from 14 inches to 22 inches (35.5 cm to 56 cm), making it suitable for children through adults. The finished hat circumference ranges from 13 inches to 21 inches (33 cm to 53.25 cm), designed to be worn with approximately 1 inch of negative ease for an optimal fit.
Knitting Techniques and Construction
The Myshka Tuque is knit from the bottom up using a combination of flat and circular knitting techniques. The pattern begins with flat knitting for the band section, which is then joined in the round to continue the crown. This hybrid construction method allows for precise shaping and a professional finish. The hat is completed with a button detail that adds both functional and aesthetic appeal to the finished garment.
Stitches Used
- Half-Linen Stitch: Used for the band worked flat at the beginning of the project, this textured stitch creates visual interest and structure at the base of the tuque
- Stockinette Stitch: Employed for the remainder of the hat after joining in the round, this classic stitch creates a smooth, refined fabric suitable for a fitted tuque
Yarn and Materials
The Myshka Tuque pattern accommodates two yarn options, both featuring superwash merino wool at DK weight:
- Knit Picks Swish DK: 100% Superwash Merino Wool with 123 yards per 50 gram ball. The pattern calls for 1 to 2 balls depending on size, with the modelled photo using Merlot colorway
- Knit Picks Bare Swish Merino DK: 100% Superwash Merino Wool with 246 yards per 100 gram hank. One hank is sufficient for all five sizes
The pattern encourages customization through hand-dyeing. The modelled 18-inch size tuque was dyed using Strawberry Kool-Aid, demonstrating the versatility of the undyed Bare Swish option for personalized colorwork.
Needles and Difficulty Level
This intermediate-level knitting project requires US 5 (3.75 mm) needles. The intermediate difficulty reflects the combination of techniques involved: working flat with a textured stitch, transitioning to circular knitting, and managing the crown shaping. Knitters comfortable with basic stitches and comfortable transitioning between flat and circular needles will find this pattern accessible and rewarding.
Yarn Weight and Fiber Properties
DK weight yarn provides an ideal balance for hat knitting, offering enough structure for a well-fitted tuque while remaining lightweight and comfortable to wear. Superwash Merino Wool is prized for its softness against the skin, natural elasticity, and easy-care properties—the superwash treatment makes the finished hat suitable for machine washing, a practical feature for everyday wear.
```Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | DK |
| Designer: | Jessie McKitrick |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Intermediate |
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