This design is a continuation of my search for a knitted version of a ṭāqīyah, in other languages within the faith referred to as an ’araqchin, kufi, kap, or topi. It is possible to find prayer skullcaps made of synthetic materials, but for a variety of economic, political, as well as purely faith-based reasons, this is no longer a valid choice. This version is in cotton.

This ṭāqīyah is named Al-Remal (الرمال) for the neighborhood in Gaza where my dear friend A.’s family has lived for generations, until now. The area is named for the “sands” or dunes that marked the area before its development. Now it has been reduced to rubble. The motifs are taken from the traditional Palestinian kufiyyeh or headscarf.

The rib is a variation I devised moving away from corrugated rib. It features a motif in the contrast color and knit stitches on a field of purl stitches in the main color.

I am using cotton for this test; and I was ecstatic to find a local source of cotton at Stony Hill Fiber Arts – Cindy Walker’s Ravelry Store. I recommend unmercerized cotton, more specifically the Cotton 8 from Scheepjes as well as Skipper from Kelbourne Woolens.

The wool versions are done here in Navia Uno (which I didn’t like too much, but I’m not partial to woolen-spun yarn) and Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok Light which is really lovely.

Free pattern soon!