Barbara Walker, in her Second Treasury of Knitting Patterns, called this particular stitch pattern “Portcullis”. In my haste, I have totally ignored her right side / wrong side instructions and ended up with something that is diagonal and not looking anything like the stitch photograph presented in her book (Page 224, if you must know).
According to Barbara, this pattern makes a handsome, symmetrical (remember: I botched it) ribbed fabric resembling crochet. The fabric is free of curl, sturdy, and easy to block; it keeps its shape well.
I used Felted Tweed for this hat, in Crush and Melody, and have enough leftovers for another one. Should you choose to knit this in a solid color, I am sure it’ll look just as lovely.
My gauge before blocking were 36 sts to 5″, and row gauge can be easily adjusted since this pattern comprises only of 2 rows. Finished dimensions after blocking is 22″ around.
Freebie for all. Go to the pattern page to retrieve instructions for your own. In this day and age when gas prices are high and costs for living continually escalate, it’s nice to get freebies every once in a while. Should you find errors or have questions, you know where to find me 
June 18th, 2008 at 8:20 am
I love this! It’s totally going in my queue. Thanks!
June 19th, 2008 at 8:50 am
Sweet! Thanks for the pattern!
July 23rd, 2008 at 11:38 pm
Hi there! I love your persistence and ingenuity!! So many projects so little time!
Did you ever finish the Renaissance Tunic? Photos? I have looked everywhere for that patter (I live in Australia) but what exactly is Vintage Style? Is it a magazine? Book? Author??
Cheers
Pen