3. The Scandinavian Double-Folded Fisherman Toque

Introduction

Rooted in Nordic maritime heritage, the Scandinavian Double-Folded Fisherman Toque features a close-fitting skullcap profile with a thick, insulating brim. Modernized with high-twist non-superwash wool, it maintains a crisp silhouette that sits neatly above or right across the ears.

What This Idea Means

This design prioritizes density and structure. The double-folded brim provides four layers of wool over the ears, creating clean geometric lines suitable for urban minimalist aesthetics.

How to Make It

  • Yarn: DK-weight 100% Non-Superwash Highland Wool (approx. 225m / 100g).
  • Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) 16-inch circular needles.
  • Gauge: 24 stitches and 30 rounds = 4 inches in $1 \times 1$ half-twisted rib.
  • Construction:
    1. Cast on 120 stitches using the Long-Tail Cast-On over two needles held together to keep the edge elastic.
    2. Join in the round and establish a $1 \times 1$ half-twisted rib pattern: *K1tbl, P1; rep from *.
    3. Work straight in pattern for 12.5 inches.
    4. Divide stitches evenly across 4 needles (30 stitches per needle).
    5. Begin rapid top decreases: *SSK, knit in pattern to last 2 stitches of needle, K2tog; rep on each needle*.
    6. Work 1 round plain, then repeat decrease round until 16 stitches remain.
    7. Fasten off with a tapestry needle, wet-block firmly, and fold the bottom edge upward twice (each fold approx. 2.5 inches).

Tips and Variations

  • Need to Make: Choose non-superwash wool; the natural scales of the wool fiber lock together, helping the hat hold its fold without sagging.
  • Variation: Knit the interior 3 inches in fine alpaca to eliminate forehead prickle while keeping highland wool on the exterior for weather resistance.