The Woodman’s Cap would make a fine accessory for the tin man in your life. The shape is reminiscent of the funnel the Tin Woodman wore on his head in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. However, this cap is made out of some of the yummiest merino around – Malabrigo worsted. I’m sure it will bring much more warmth and comfort than the original metal.
I made this cap for my cousin Paul’s birthday and thought I’d write up the pattern to share with you. The overall shape is based on an existing machine-knit hat that he has worn (and worn and worn), and wanted a replacement for. This new version is a classic toque with a ribbed brim, funnel topper and optional handle.
Note: If you choose to use one colour rather than two you will likely only need one skein of Malabrigo
Finished Measurements
Hat circumference = 23 inches (58 cm) or man-sized
Materials
1 skein Malabrigo Worsted in Vaa (51) – colour A
1 skein Malabrigo Worsted in Lettuce (37) – colour B
US 9 (5.5 mm)/ 16 inch (40 cm) circular needle
US 9 (5.5 mm) double-pointed needles
2 stitch markers (different colours)
tapestry needle
measuring tape
Gauge
17 sts and 28 rows in 4 inches (10 cm) of stockinette stitch
Directions
Cast on 88 sts with colour A
Place a stitch marker and join to work in the round, being careful not to twist any stitches
Work K2, P2 rib for 3 inches (7 1/2 cm) as follows: [K2, P2] to end of round, repeat for every round
Change to colour B using the TECHknitter’s Stationary Jogless Stripes technique: slip the marker at the beginning of the next round, start stockinette stitch with colour B and work to end of round; on the next round, slip the marker and slip the first stitch of the colour change round purlwise; knit the rest of the stitches in the round (2 rounds worked)
Continue in stockinette stitch for five more rounds
Shape body of hat as follows:
a) k2tog, knit 42, place second stitch marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (86 sts)
b) knit five rounds
c) k2tog, knit to second marker, slip marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (84 sts)
d) knit four rounds
e) k2tog, knit to second marker, slip marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (82 sts)
f) knit three rounds
g) k2tog, knit to second marker, slip marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (80 sts)
h) knit two rounds
i) k2tog, knit to second marker, slip marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (78 sts)
j) knit one round
k) k2tog, knit to second marker, slip marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (76 sts)
l) knit one round, removing second stitch marker
Shape the crown as follows:
Round 1 – [k2, k2tog], repeat to end of round (57 sts)
Rounds 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 – knit
Round 3 – [k1, k2tog], repeat to end of round (38 sts)
Round 5 – k2tog, knit 17, place second marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (36 sts)
Round 7 – k2tog, knit to second marker, slip marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (34 sts)
Round 9 – k2tog, knit to second marker, slip marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (32 sts)
Round 11 – [k2tog], repeat to end of round (16 sts)
Round 13 – k2tog, knit to second marker, remove marker, k2tog, knit to end of round (14 sts)
Work funnel tip in stockinette stitch for approximately 2 inches (5 cm), or until desired length
Bind off
Optional funnel handle (concept courtesy blacksanta)
Cast on 3 stitches with colour B and work an I-cord for 3 inches (7 1/2 cm)
Bind off and attach to hat at colour change round (placement pictured above)
Finishing
Weave in yarn ends with tapestry needle
Wet block being careful not to stretch ribbing at brim
