The Alapo Hat is worked in 2-stranded color work in 3 colors, using DK weight yarn. It is a slouchy hat but can be modified to be a skull cap.

This Hat must have been inspired by a motif that is called by several names among the various tribes in the Cordilleras. The Bontok and Kankanaey people may call this a variation of ‘Tiktiko’ and ‘Matmata’ (Crosses/Zigzags and Eyes), reminding them of prosperity. The Ifugaos, might be remind-ed of “Hinulgi”, a funerary motif representing ones ancestral line. The Kalinga’s may say this reminds them of the “Billalikted”, commonly seen in traditional blankets.

As a proud Cordilleran, I decided to name this, the Alapo Hat, a term that refers to “Elder”, as a tribute to my Igorot ancestry. This is not a direct copy from a particular motif, but a visual memory of every Cordilleran pattern and motif that I have seen and grew up with. It is a motif that reminds me of the heritage I am proud of, and thus, am now showing to the world, albeit, in a small way through a knitted hat.

Yarn: DK Weight, in 3 Colors

Yarn Lengths (Approx):
Size 1 - MC = 95m : CC1&2 = 36m each
Size 2 - MC = 102m : CC1&2 = 38m each
Size 3 - MC = 112m : CC1&2 = 42m each
Size 4 - MC=122m : CC1&2 = 46m each

Needles: 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm