Tom’s Protest Hat
Title: Melt the Ice Hat
Designer: Paul S. Neary, who adds that “all proceeds from the sale of this pattern go to the immigrant aid agencies who will distribute the funds to those impacted by the actions of ICE.”
Yarn: Berroco Vintage in (I’m pretty sure) the colorway Black Cherry. Fiber content for this yarn is 52% Manufactured Fibers – Acrylic, 40% Wool, 8% Manufactured Fibers – Nylon / Polyamide. It’s superwash, which is not my favorite . . . but it gets the job done. (And it was just laying around in my stash — a mostly-complete skein with no label, but I know it’s Vintage.)
Needles: US 8
Started/finished: March 5 – March 8, 2026
Notes and modifications:
- I followed the pattern directions for worsted weight yarn. After 6″ (or probably closer to 6.5″ . . . ) of 1X1 rib, I knit 5 rows in stockinette THEN started the decreases. I added a plain knit row after EACH decrease row because I wanted a more “stocking cap” look for my hat.
- The directions are not terribly clear when it comes to setting up the markers for the decreases. I have no idea why there are extra markers in there? (You are only making 4 decreases per decrease row.) (Mark accordingly.)
- Re: Yarn use . . . I don’t know how much yarn this actually used up (because this was a partially-used-but-mostly-intact skein to begin with), but I’m guessing something in 150-175 yards range. I was never worried about running out, and I have a bit left over.
- If you’re not yet familiar with the story behind the hat, Joyce Vance (former US attorney, legal analyst, author, podcast host, and Knitter) has written a great history and promotional piece about the red knit hats here. An inspiring article worth your time!
Who’s it for? I knit this for Tom. Because he asked me to.
Photo gallery.
