Raspberry Merlot

Raspberry Merlot Slouchy Cap by Christina Loman

What is Being Made

The Raspberry Merlot is a slouchy cap designed by Christina Loman. This intermediate-level knitting project features a relaxed, comfortable fit ideal for cool weather wear. The hat is available in three sizes with finished brim circumferences of 20, 22, or 24 inches and cap lengths ranging from 10.75 to 11.25 inches. The slouchy silhouette and rich color palette make it suitable for autumn and vineyard settings.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This hat employs a strategic construction method to minimize purling work. The garment is worked inside out during knitting, which reduces the amount of purl stitches the knitter must execute. This technique-forward approach makes the intermediate project more manageable while maintaining visual interest through stitch pattern contrast.

Stitches Used

The Raspberry Merlot combines two primary stitch patterns to create its distinctive appearance:

• Raspberry Stitch: Panels of this textured stitch create visual depth and interest throughout the cap
• Reverse Stockinette: Alternating panels of reverse stockinette provide contrast and complement the raspberry stitch sections

The gauge for stockinette stitch is 21 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches, while raspberry stitch gauges at 21 stitches and 25 rows over 4 inches.

Materials and Needles

This pattern calls for Plymouth Yarn Suri Merino in the colorway Raspberry (3430). The yarn is a luxurious blend of 55% alpaca and 45% merino wool, offering softness and warmth. Each skein contains 110 yards and weighs 50 grams; the project requires 2 skeins regardless of size.

Needles required include one set of US #6/4 mm double-point needles and one 16-inch US #6/4 mm circular needle. Stitch markers are needed as notions to track pattern repeats and shaping.

Yarn Weight and Fiber Content

The worsted-weight yarn blend provides the structure and drape necessary for a slouchy silhouette while maintaining the softness and insulating properties essential for cool-weather wear. The alpaca-merino combination creates a garment described as soft and rich, perfect for keeping warm during brisk autumn days.