Tricky Dickey by Elizabeth Zimmermann

Tricky Dickey

Knitting
June 1989
Shetland Wool
Sport (12 wpi) ?
6 stitches = 1 inch
US 3 - 3.25 mm
US 4 - 3.5 mm
English

Pattern description from Knitting Around: “We call ‘em Dickeys. They go around the human neck in parky weather and keep it snug and secure. Since they much first pass over the human head, the more stretchable they are, the better. In fact, they should (and even must) be knitted; why else would I be telling you about them? Consider the circumference of the human head and neck; the Dickey must be obliging enough to stretch comfortably over the actual head, yet snuggle down around the neck of the victim when the time comes. Let us bless the elasticity of handknitting, and cast on sufficient stitches to fit either circumference equally well - neither too tight, nor, go save us, too sloppy. Not only do they warm and protect your neck and upper chest, but, work under a turned up shirt collar, they look very sporting indeed. A Dickey is a good beginning-knitter’s project, so let’s start with one in thickish wool, involving a few interesting details.”

Materials: 2 oz Shetland Wool. 16” circular needle, about #3 or 4.

Gauge: 6 stitches to 1” measured over stocking-stitch.

Option: “Insert a stripe or two in the neck section. If you do not want a ‘wrong side’ appearance to your ribbing, work the first round of a new color in all knit.”

This pattern may be found on page 39-40 of Knitting Around.