Protect

Protect Knit Hood by Daniela Mühlbauer

What Is Being Made

Protect is a matching knit hood designed as a companion piece to the Proof cardigan. This downloadable knitting pattern provides instructions for creating a fitted hood in two sizes to accommodate different head circumferences. The hood is constructed using a combination of yarn weights held together to achieve the desired fabric characteristics, making it a versatile layering piece that coordinates with the Proof cardigan collection.

Sizes and Fit

The pattern includes two size options:

• Size 1: Head circumference up to 55 cm (21 inches)
• Size 2: Head circumference more than 55 cm (21 inches)

The pattern notes that the desired length of the neck opening may vary, which affects the total yardage required for completion.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques. The primary fabric is worked in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knit texture. The pattern incorporates increase stitches using both right-leaning (m1R) and left-leaning (m1L) make-one techniques to shape the hood structure. Decrease stitches are worked using knit two together through back loops (k2togtbl) to create refined shaping. The hood is constructed in the round using circular needles, requiring knitters to work seamless circular knitting techniques. The pattern also involves picking up and knitting stitches to join sections and create finished edges.

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and the following core stitches:

• Knit (k): The fundamental knit stitch
• Purl (p): The basic purl stitch
• Make 1 Right (m1R): A left-leaning increase stitch
• Make 1 Left (m1L): A right-leaning increase stitch
• Knit 2 Together Through Back Loops (k2togtbl): A right-leaning decrease stitch
• Pick Up and Knit (puk): Used for joining sections and creating finished edges

Yarn and Materials

The Protect hood is designed to be worked with worsted weight yarn held double, creating a thicker, more durable fabric. The original pattern specifies holding two strands together: a DK weight yarn and a light fingering weight yarn.

Original Yarn Specifications:

• Main yarn: Manufattura Filati Pifferino Srl in colorway BCO/NERO, 100% wool (100g/240m)
• Secondary yarn: Le Petit Lambswool in various colors

Yarn Alternatives: The pattern provides substitution suggestions for knitters seeking different options:

• Rohrspatz & Wollmeise Twin: 80% wool/20% polyamide blend (100g/311m or 340yd), held double
• Positive Ease Merino Singles: 100% wool (100g/340m), held double

Yardage Requirements: Depending on the desired length of the neck opening, knitters will need between 130 to 150 grams of yarn to complete the hood.

Needles and Tools Required:

• Circular needles in three sizes: 3.5mm (US 4), 4.5mm (US 7), and 5mm (US 9)
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Scissors

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches by 24 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) when working stockinette stitch with 4.5mm (US 7) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly given the fitted nature of this hood design.

Pattern Format