In the 1940s, Norwegians wore red pointed nisselue as a quiet but visible assertion of cultural identity during Nazi occupation. What began as everyday winter wear became a signal of belonging and resistance in the face of enforced erasure. When the hats were later outlawed on February 26, 1942, their symbolism deepened.
Today, makers in places like Michigan have revived the red hat as a peaceful expression of solidarity in response to immigration enforcement actions.
We are continuing that lineage of nonviolent craftivism here in Alberta. By knitting traditional red hats, participants affirm the right to identity, dignity, and belonging for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities affected by recent provincial anti-trans legislation.
Pattern:
Cast on 80 stitches using Medium Weight (4) yarn and US Size 8 (5mm) needles
Ribbing Section:
R1 (RS): K1, p1 to end of row. (80 st)
R2 (WS): K1, p1 to end of row.
Repeat R1 & R2 until work is 5-6 inches from cast on edge.
Place stitch markers at 20, 40, & 60 stitches
Decrease Section:
R1 (RS): K1, k2tog, *k to 3 stitches before marker, k2tog, k1, slm, k1, k2tog*, repeat * * for each marker, then knit to 3 before end of row, k2tog, k1. (Decr 8 st)
R2 (WS): P to end of row, slipping all marker.
Repeat R1 & R2 until 4 st at beginning of row, 6 stitches between each marker, and 4 at the end of row.
R3 (RS): k1, k2tog, slm, k1, k2tog, k2tog, k1, slm, k1, k2tog, k2tog, k1, slm, k1, k2tog. (Decr 8 st)
R4 (WS): p to end of row, slipping all marker.
R5 (RS): k1, k2tog, k1, k2tog, k1, k2tog, k1, k2tog, dropping all markers. (8 st)
Bind off tightly, leaving long tail. Stitch the hat closed with the yarn tails. Attach tassel using waste yarn.
Abbreviations:
Decr – decrease
K,k – knit
k2tog – knit 2 stitches together
P,p – purl
R- row
RS – right side
slm – slip marker
st – stitch, stitches
WS – wrong side sewproudyyc.ca/nisslelue