The Whitewater Rapids Toque is inspired by churning river rapids. This hat reflects the water’s turbulence and irregularly-interrupted flow with deliberately twisted elongated stitches offset from each other in a disorderly pattern. No unusual techniques are required to make this visually striking effect!

Also check out the Whitewater Rapids Fingerless Mitts and the Whitewater Rapids Socks!

Pattern Description

This warm, comfortable hat uses knitwise slipping of long, elongated stitches to twist them as they lie on top of the fabric. Those elongated stitches also highlight the subtle colour details we all love in handpainted yarns. Meant to be just slightly slouchy as a nod to the traditional conical Canadian toque, this hat is available in six sizes from baby to adult and it features a crown knit in pattern as well as a twisted-rib cuff. Add a snap pompom to the top for a pop of colour!

This pattern requires the knitter to be able to knit in the round (both on double-pointed needles and circular needles) and clearly explains all techniques required. Within the pattern you will find links to useful video tutorials as well, so the pattern is easily accessible to an intermediate knitter, or even an advanced beginner. Corresponding written instructions are provided for the chart.

Yarn Requirements and Sizing

Sizes available: Infant/Baby (Toddler, Child Small, Child Large, Adult Small, Adult Large) for approximate head circumferences of 38 (42, 46, 51, 56, 60) cm / 15 (16.5, 18, 20, 22, 23.5) inches (each size fits up to a 4 cm / 1.5 inch range).

The hat requires approximately 80 (90, 100, 120, 140, 160) m / 90 (100, 110, 130, 155, 175) yards of worsted weight yarn.

The texture used in this pattern works with nearly any colourway, since it stands out on a solid colour, but also pulls out subtle dye details and breaks up pooling.