Roscoe's Toque

Roscoe's Toque by Holli Yeoh

What is Being Made

Roscoe's Toque is a cozy, textured knit hat designed by Holli Yeoh. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a sophisticated and comfortable beanie featuring exceptional insulating properties perfect for keeping warm in cold weather. The hat is available in five sizes to fit head circumferences ranging from 13¾ inches (35 cm) to 22¾ inches (58 cm), with depths from 6¼ inches (15 cm) to 11 inches (28 cm) not including the pompom. The pattern is intended to be worn with negative ease, meaning the finished size should be approximately 1.5 to 3 inches (4 to 7.5 cm) smaller than the wearer's actual head measurement for an optimal fit.

Techniques Used

This beginner-friendly knitting pattern employs several classic circular knitting techniques to construct the hat seamlessly from the crown downward. Knitters can choose their preferred method based on available needles: double pointed needles (DPNs), two circular needles (two circulars technique), or Magic Loop technique using a single long circular needle. The pattern uses a stitch marker to track rounds and includes finishing with a pompom, which can be created using a pompom maker or cardboard template.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern featured in Roscoe's Toque is the Waffle Rib stitch, a textured combination that alternates knit and purl stitches along with slipped stitches. This simple yet effective stitch pattern creates the distinctive delicious texture and thickness that defines the hat's appearance and performance. The Waffle Rib stitch is accessible to beginner knitters while producing sophisticated, professional-looking results with excellent insulating properties.

Materials

Roscoe's Toque is worked in chunky weight yarn, which contributes to the quick knitting process and substantial fabric. The pattern requires 4.5 mm (US 7) needles in one of three configurations: double pointed needles paired with a 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle, two 24-inch (60 cm) circular needles, or one 32-inch (80 cm) or longer circular needle for Magic Loop. Additional notions include a stitch marker, yarn needle for weaving in ends, and a 4-inch (10 cm) pompom maker or cardboard template. The gauge is 14 stitches and 35 rounds over 4 inches (10 cm) when working the Waffle Rib stitch in the round.