Channel your inner Gordie Howe with the “Elbows Up!” Toque. This pattern combines iconic Canadian symbolism in bold stranded colourwork with Briggs and Little yarn. Knit in the round from the brim up, “Elbows Up!” offers a satisfying project for knitters looking to showcase their patriotism while crafting a distinctive toque perfect for braving the Canadian chill with a bit of defiant flair.

Kits are available on the Needles in the Hay website

Finished Sizes
One Size; 45.75 cm 18” finished circumference (unstretched), after blocking; 25.5 cm 10” finished height (folded), after blocking; 31 cm 12.25”, finished height (unfolded), after blocking. Note: Hat will stretch to fit a 48.25 - 58.5 cm 19” - 23” head circumference.

Yarn
Briggs & Little Sport 1-ply (100% Canadian wool; 113 g 4 oz.): MC - 73 red, CC1 - 2 washed white, CC2 - 16 black; 1 skein each.

OR

Haynes Creek Heathers DK (100% peruvian highland wool milled for a Canadian company; 50g 1.75 oz): MC - 491 Brickworks, CC1 - 400 Snow, CC2 - 404 Night; 1 ball each.

OR

Any sport weight yarn: MC - 142 yds 130m, CC1 - 100 yds 92 m, CC2 - 35 yds 32m

Needles
Size A (for hat body): Size 3.75 mm US 5: 40 cm 16” circular (circ) and double-pointed needles (dpn), or preferred method for working small-circumferences.
Size B (for ribbing): Size 3.25 mm US 3: 40 cm 16” circular (circ), or preferred method for working small-circumferences.

Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Notions
Stitch markers; tapestry needle.

Gauge
24 sts and 30 rnds = 10 cm 4” in charted colourwork pattern on Size A needle, after blocking.

Skills Needed
Stranded knitting; decreasing; chart reading.

Credits:
Thank you so much to my friends Meghan Babin and Victoria Smyth who were instrumental in bringing this pattern to life.

Photography: Deanna Guttman
Design: Deanna Guttman
Layout: Meghan Babin
Art Concept: Victoria Smyth