Alumroot Tam

Alumroot Tam by Stephannie Tallent

What Is Being Made

The Alumroot Tam is a classic knitted hat pattern that offers versatility in styling and finished appearance. This intermediate-level design works up quickly in DK weight yarn and can be finished in two distinct ways: blocked and worn as a traditional tam with a structured crown, or blocked as a slouchy beanie for a more relaxed fit. The pattern accommodates two size ranges—XS/S and M/L—to fit head circumferences from 16–18 inches (40.5–45.5 cm) up to 18–20 inches (45.5–51 cm).

Techniques and Construction

This tam is constructed using circular knitting methods, worked seamlessly from the bottom up in the round. The pattern features a memorable textured leaf motif that creates high visual impact despite being easy to remember and execute, making it suitable for intermediate knitters who want to expand their stitch vocabulary without excessive complexity. The crown shaping is accomplished through strategic decreases that form a beautiful spiral as they taper toward the top of the hat. The finishing touch is an i-cord top knot, which adds a refined detail and traditional tam aesthetic. The blocking process is essential to the final appearance—blocking determines whether the finished hat presents as a structured tam or a more casual slouchy beanie, giving knitters creative control over the garment's final silhouette.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Alumroot Tam features a textured leaf pattern as its primary design element. The pattern also incorporates ribbing at the lower edge to create a snug, elastic cuff that helps the hat stay in place. The crown shaping uses decreases worked in a spiral formation, and the top is finished with an i-cord—a tubular knitted cord that serves as both a functional and decorative element.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Alumroot Tam is designed to work with DK weight yarn. The pattern sample was knitted using The Yarn Collective Bloomsbury DK, a merino wool yarn that provides approximately 263 yards per 3.5 ounces (240 meters per 100 grams). Only one skein is required, with yardage requirements of approximately 154 yards (141 meters) for the XS/S size and 186 yards (171 meters) for the M/L size, making this an efficient project for stash busting or showcasing a special skein.

The pattern offers flexibility in needle choice for circular knitting: knitters may use double-pointed needles (DPNs), two circular needles, or one long circular needle, depending on personal preference and available tools. Three needle sizes are required: US 5 / 3.75 mm needles for the main body to obtain gauge, US 4 / 3.5 mm needles (one size smaller) for the ribbed cuff, and US 3 / 3.25 mm needles for additional shaping as specified in the pattern instructions.

The pattern recommends using hand-dyed semi-solid yarn, soft heather colorways, or bright solids to showcase the textured leaf pattern effectively. Highly variegated yarns are discouraged, as they would obscure the stitch definition and visual impact of the design.