First it’s hot, then it’s cold. It feels like it’s freezing, but it’s not. What it is, is autumn. Since I feel like I am freezing though, that means I need to knit extra warm things! Simple things to assuage my need for instant gratification too! Once again, a big shout out to Malabrigo Yarns, for their lovely Rasta, this time in the jewel tones of Indiecita!
My latest release is named Rifle Peak Hat. Rifle Peak looks down at Lake Tahoe from a height of 9480 feet with an elevation gain of 1860 ft from the start of the approximate 2 mile trail up (which feels like it is STRAIGHT UP with limited and very short switchbacks!). My lovely daughter, (pictured here modeling Rifle Peak) talked me into taking this hike on a recent vacation! I think I need one of those “I survived…” t-shirts now, but I do admit that the reward more than made up for the effort! I highly recommend this hike if you are adventurous and committed to complete anything you start!
Like the trail, the Rifle Peak Hat has tiny switchbacks, made up of all right cross cables worked in a half-drop style pattern. The cabling creates a unique textural appearance and yet is incredibly easy to execute. A cable needle is optional, should you wish to forego it in exchange for speed.
Rifle Peak fits an adult head size of approx 22” – 23.5” (55.9 cm – 59.7 cm). Additional sizes are easily created by working more/fewer full pattern and/or round repeats. Instructions for altering the size are provided.
Gauge is VERY IMPORTANT with most any project, but is critical with this one. Just be aware that working so few stitches on large yarn can lead to BIG variations in gauge and finished size, so check your measurements! Always match to the pattern gauge, not ball band or manufacturer suggested gauge! And check fit as you go, if possible.
As always, this downloadable, PDF pattern has been professionally tech edited and test knit to reduce the potential for error.
The Rifle Peak Hat can be cast on and finished in a day, leaving plenty of time to tackle a trail! Full pattern details for the Rifle Peak Hat can be found here.