The Trafalgar Hat

**THE TRAFALGAR HAT** A Study in Laid Back Luxury. This uber-squishable beanie uses a mock open cable design to create amazing texture that is actually quite simple to knit--no cable needle required! What makes this hat one of my all-time favourites? First, the yarn; a single skein of buttery-soft baby alpaca for softness and drape—choose a colour that speaks to your heart. Second, the pattern; an effortless take on classic cables—relax into the rhythm of the needles. The result? A squishable, squeezeable, wearable hat you'll reach for again and again. ______________________________ **YARN** Approximately 220 yards (200 meters) of a DK-weight alpaca yarn. See note below. Shown in Juniper Moon Farm Herriot (100% Baby Alpaca; 220 yards (200 meters) / 100 grams. **NEEDLES** Size US 5 (3.75 mm) 16”/40 cm circular needle (ribbing, body). Size US 5 (3.75 mm) double-pointed needles x 4 (crown). **GAUGE** 36 stitches & 32 rounds = 4” (10 cm) in 3 x 2 Ribbing. 36 stitches & 32 rounds = 4” (10 cm) in Mock Open Cable Pattern. **FINISHED MEASUREMENTS** 14” (35 cm) circumference x 10” (25 cm) length. To fit approx. 22” (56 cm) head circumference. **NOTE** You may notice that the finished width (14”) seems quite small for an adult head (22”). There are two important reasons for this. First, the mock open cable pattern is a variation of ribbing, and ribbed fabrics are very stretchy. Second, much like cotton yarns, alpaca yarns have little to no elasticity, which means they will stretch with wear and, unlike wool yarns, will not regain their shape—so it’s important to knit slightly under size to start with. Finally, Herriot is on the lighter side of DK; be sure to swatch if substituting. **FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT** The stitch & round multiples on which The Trafalgar Hat is based are now included in the pattern. For less experienced knitters who want to make a different size, the math is now provided. More experienced knitters can use this same information to make decisions about yarn substitution, gauge etc. I hope this helps empower you to understand your knitting better and to find your perfect fit :)