This pattern includes a second PDF version that is formatted for knitters with low vision. It has black text, size 22 or larger text in a sans serif font, no italics, no columns, and fully-written directions. The chart is still included but is not needed to work the pattern. Many thanks to Gemma Thompson (gemmabelle here on Rav) and the Accessible Patterns group for their guidance in formatting patterns in a more accessible way.

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I’ve been growing increasingly fascinated with baking over the last couple years. It scratches a lot of the same itches that knitting does for me – keeping my hands busy, instructions to follow that can usually be memorized after a couple rounds (or bakes), and having a tangible product at the end. So in 2020, all of my patterns are going to follow a theme: tasty baked goods. The Victoria Sponge Hat is first up!

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying knit, the Victoria Sponge Hat will fit the bill. It works up quickly and has just enough texture to be interesting. Once it’s washed and blocked, it has a lightweight, fluffy feel that is perfect for brisk days down by the ocean. The two rows of garter and bobbles with a block of lace in the middle reminded me quite a bit of a Victoria sponge cake, so here we are.

SIZES
One Size

MATERIALS
Fingering weight yarn, 180 yds (165 m), and lace-weight silk-mohair yarn, 180 yds (165 m)

Recommended yarns: Long Dog Yarn Sock, colorway Grace; Eden Cottage Yarn Eldwick Lace, colorway Apricot Tulip

A note about yarn substitution: some of my testers who are allergic to mohair subbed in a suri yarn with good results. If you choose to sub yarns, make sure that least one of your yarns has a very fluffy finish, because this hat is knit at a loose gauge with the assumption that the mohair fibers will catch on each other and lend stability.

GAUGE
4” (10 cm) square = 17 stitches x 19 rows in stockinette after blocking

NEEDLES
One set of needles for your preferred style of small-circumference knitting in a size to match gauge listed above
One set of needles three sizes smaller than the size used to achieve gauge

Suggested needle sizes: US 8 (5 mm), US 5 (3.75 mm)

TOOLS
One stitch marker
Size G (4 mm) crochet hook (optional)
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

SKILL LEVEL
Adventurous beginner to intermediate
Techniques: increases, decreases, bobbles, knitting in the round