18. The Purl-Ridge Asymmetric Drape Slouch

Introduction

The Purl-Ridge Asymmetric Drape Slouch uses contrasting horizontal textures to create a relaxed, sculptural drape. By interspersing smooth stockinette bands with dense purl garter ridges, the fabric naturally folds and collapses into soft, organic layers when worn.

What This Idea Means

This pattern plays with the tension differences between stockinette and reverse stockinette. The alternating horizontal ridges cause the hat to fold naturally without requiring complex shaping.

How to Make It

  • Yarn: DK-weight single-ply Merino (approx. 220m / 100g).
  • Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles.
  • Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rounds = 4 inches in stockinette.
  • Construction:
    1. Cast on 92 stitches. Join in the round.
    2. Work 1.5 inches of $1 \times 1$ half-twisted rib.
    3. Begin alternating textural bands:
      • Band A: Knit 6 rounds in stockinette.
      • Band B: Purl 4 rounds to form a raised horizontal shelf.
      • Band C: Knit 8 rounds in stockinette.
      • Band D: Purl 3 rounds.
    4. Continue this irregular pattern spacing until the hat measures 11 inches long.
    5. Shape the crown with rapid decreases hidden inside a purl band to keep the top clean and unobtrusive.

Tips and Variations

  • Need to Make: Use a single-ply yarn to give the purl ridges a smooth, rounded finish with minimal fuzz.
  • Variation: Knit the purl sections in a slightly contrasting tonal color to subtly accentuate the horizontal lines.