New Heights in Cables: Knit the Traverse Toque

The inspiration for the Traverse Toque came from my love for the mountains: the beauty they possess, the sense of stability and strength they evoke, and the adventures they have to offer. The towering and majestic formations seem so daunting from far away, but the peace you can feel when exploring their hidden sanctuaries cannot be matched.

Sometimes a knitting project can feel the same. Cables may seem insurmountable, but once you learn their possibilities and the ease with which they can be done, there’s a beautiful outcome: a truly special handknit piece, the joy that was had while knitting it, and hopefully some lessons learned along the way.

The deceptively simple cable pattern of the Traverse Toque creates a rich texture and warm fabric. Photo by Gale Zucker

Choose a neutral color for the ease of pairing it with your wardrobe, or choose a bright tone to bring a pop of color into any outfit.

Learn more about Targhee wool and Brooklyn Tweed Arbor’s yarn structure from Kate Larson.

MATERIALS Yarn Brooklyn Tweed Arbor (100% American Targhee wool; 145 yd (132 m)/50 g; sport weight): Butte, 2 skeins.
Needles Size 3 (3.25 mm) 16" (40 cm) circular (cir) for tubular CO; size 4 (3.5 mm) 16" (40 cm) cir; size 6 (4.0 mm) 16" (40 cm) cir and set of 4 or 5 double-pointed needles (dpn), or size needed to match gauge.
Notions Stitch markers (m); cable needle (cn); tapestry needle.
Gauge 34 sts and 36 rows = 4" (10 cm) in Chevron Cable pattern using largest needles, unstretched, after gentle blocking; 22 sts and 28 rows = 4" using largest needles in St st.
Finished Size 17" (43.2 cm) head circumference, unstretched. Hat will stretch to fit up to 21" [53.3 cm]) and 11½" (29.2 cm) tall with brim unfolded.

Visit farmfiberknits.com/abbreviations for terms you don’t know.

NOTES • This hat is worked in the round from the bottom up, starting with a tubular cast on. K2, p2 ribbing is worked for the folded brim, and a chevron cable is worked for the main fabric.
• Stockinette-stitch gauge is given for ease of swatching or yarn substitution.